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State of the state addresses (2018)

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All 50 state constitutions mandate that the governor give an annual (or regular) report to the state legislature on the condition of the state. This speech is most commonly referred to as the State of the State address, although it is known as the Condition of the State address in Iowa and the State of the Commonwealth address in Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia. The speech also includes the governor’s priorities and goals for the legislative session.

This page includes information about the 2018 State of the State addresses. For the most recent addresses, click here.

Note: Governors Steve Bullock (Montana), Brian Sandoval (Nevada), Roy Cooper (North Carolina), and Greg Abbott (Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2018.

Alabama

Gov. Kay Ivey’s (R) January 9, 2018, State of the State address provided Alabamians with an update on her first nine months as governor, after the resignation of Robert Bentley on April 10, 2017. She stated that two of the first things she did as governor were to replace almost half of her cabinet and set out on her "Listen, Learn, Help and Lead" tour to visit citizens across Alabama. The address also highlighted recent economic achievements; Ivey announced that the unemployment rate, 3.5 percent, was the lowest rate in the state's recorded history. She described new initiatives such as the Governor’s Disability Job Fair, the Opioid Overdose & Addiction Council, and her education plan—Strong Start, Strong Finish. Ivey announced that her education budget was the "largest investment in education in a decade" and would "fully [fund] the K-12 request of $144 million dollars, and [provide] an additional $50 million dollars for higher education." She also "propos[ed] a pay raise for all teachers and state employees."

Ivey outlined three particular challenges facing the state—poor prison conditions, a lack of resources in rural areas, and veteran unemployment—and explained how she planned to address each issue.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Alaska

Gov. Bill Walker's (Ind.) January 18, 2018, State of the State address encouraged lawmakers to deal with the state's budget deficit.[1] Walker stated, “Any system that cannot deliver a budget within 90 legislative days is broken, and anyone who can’t see that, or who refuses to address it, is complicit in that failure.”[2] He also "... [proposed] to cut legislators’ pay if a budget were not passed within the first 90 days of the session. ..."[3]

Other challenges mentioned in Walker's address included healthcare and climate change.[4]

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Arizona

Gov. Doug Ducey (R) delivered 2018's State of the State address before a joint session of the Arizona State Legislature on January 8. Ducey began by praising Arizona for electing the “highest percentage of female legislators” in the United States. He commended notable men and women in Arizona’s history and encouraged Arizonans to pursue bipartisanship to address the opioid crisis. Ducey lamented the toll opioids have taken on the state and announced that he would be calling for a special legislative session to deal with the crisis. He also suggested passing a bill that would make driving on highways the wrong way due to being under the influence of drugs or alcohol a felony.

Ducey celebrated state efforts to decrease recidivism and help released prisoners transition back into society. He emphasized a focus on education, saying, "For too many years, Arizona saw spending on prison facilities go up, and spending on K-12 education go down. Not any more. For the second year in a row, my budget will add no new prison beds. … In fact, 80 percent of our new budget priorities you’ll see Friday will be for public education." Ducey also encouraged legislators to increase the retired military tax exemption, praised the state’s improvements in the foster care system, and highlighted the elimination of 676 state regulations in the previous year.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Arkansas

Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on February 12. Hutchinson began by highlighting Arkansas' economic growth, stating, "Today, our unemployment rate stands at 3.7%. And last year, Arkansas was one of only three states to achieve record-low unemployment while increasing wages more than 3%." He described growth in investments and jobs due to new industries moving to Arkansas, emphasized his support for farmers, and announced a working group tasked with proposing legislation to reduce regulations on businesses.

Regarding education, Hutchinson praised the state's high school computer science curriculum, as well as new programs including the Reading Initiative for Student Excellence, the No Limits ACT campaign, and the Higher Education Productivity Funding Formula. He also expressed optimism about introducing a work requirement for the state's Medicaid expansion program, Arkansas Works, stating, "The only long-lasting solution to lowering the cost of Medicaid is to help more people earn their way off." Lastly, he outlined his 2019 proposed budget and recommended reducing Arkansas' top marginal tax rate from 6.9 percent to 6 percent.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

California

Gov. Jerry Brown (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 25. Brown began by describing California's economic recovery after the Great Recession, stating that since 2010, "California’s personal income has grown $845 billion and 2.8 million new jobs have been created." Much of his address then focused on environmental issues, climate change, and natural disasters. Brown noted that "Over the last 40 years, California’s fire season has increased 78 days — and in some places it is nearly year-round." He announced the creation of a task force to address the issue of forest fires.

Brown also provided an update on California's infrastructure, including the water and transportation systems. Regarding the status of the high-speed rail, he said, "One link between San Jose and San Francisco — an electrified Caltrain — is financed and ready to go. Another billion, with matching funds, will be invested in Los Angeles ..." Finally, he summarized achievements and challenges in the areas of education, healthcare, and criminal justice.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Colorado

Gov. John Hickenlooper (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 11. The theme of Hickenlooper's address was the importance of topophilia, or love of place, for Colorado's economic well-being. He described the previous session as the "most impactful, bipartisan legislative session since the great recession" and praised Colorado's achievements in healthcare, technology, business, and tourism. Much of the address dealt with issues facing rural Colorado and how to make rural areas more attractive to businesses and entrepreneurs. He highlighted initiatives like Startup Colorado, Blueprint, Rural Jumpstart, and "a ten-million-dollar Rural Venture Fund to focus equity investment and access to capital in rural parts of the state."

Regarding education, Hickenlooper emphasized the importance of apprenticeships. He stated, "Working closely with business and education leaders, in a public-private partnership, Colorado is igniting an apprenticeship renaissance with Careerwise." Hickenlooper also argued for the necessity of funding the Colorado Water Plan and infrastructure improvements.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Connecticut

Gov. Dannel Malloy (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to the Connecticut State Legislature on February 7. Malloy's speech focused on the idea of fairness. He stated, "Simply put, Connecticut Fairness means we take care of one another – especially our most vulnerable." He then outlined a number of proposals intended to promote fairness related to the topics of healthcare, paid sick leave, climate change, affordable housing, firearm regulations, juvenile justice, voting rights, minimum wage, fair pay, and workplace harassment.

Malloy noted at the beginning of the address that he would not be discussing his budget proposal.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Delaware

Gov. John Carney (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 18. Carney set out a list of priorities for 2018: strengthening the economy, improving schools, making communities safer, increasing health, and strengthening the workforce. He stated, "Delaware has a lot to offer, and it’s our job to support and promote the things that make Delaware a great place to live."

Carney also acknowledged challenges facing Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, and outlined plans for addressing them, saying, "This may be the most difficult thing we do during this Administration, but it is clearly the most important."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Florida

Gov. Rick Scott (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 9. Scott's speech highlighted accomplishments of his two terms as governor of Florida. He recounted, "Working together, we’ve created an environment where our private sector has added nearly 1.5 million jobs; our GDP has grown 26 percent; home values have skyrocketed; we’ve decreased state debt by $9 billion; and our unemployment rate has dropped from over 10 percent when I took office to a more than 10-year low of 3.6 percent – even lower than the national rate."

Scott described his tax cut package and also proposed a constitutional amendment that would require a two-thirds vote of the legislature before raising taxes. He praised the state's response to recent hurricanes, thanking the National Guard and first responders. Scott requested a pay raise for law enforcement officers and expressed support for a measure that would provide free tuition to family members of those who have fallen in the line of duty, whether military, law enforcement, or first responder. He also addressed the topics of sexual harassment, opioid abuse, foster care, and veteran employment. Lastly, Scott emphasized his concern for the situation in Venezuela, saying, "I am going to fight to make sure Florida does everything possible to bring freedom and democracy to Venezuela."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Georgia

Gov. Nathan Deal (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 11 to a joint session of the Georgia State Legislature. Deal began his speech with a parable about planting trees for future generations. Continuing with the metaphor, he stated, "Over the past seven years, we have endeavored to plant whole orchards of opportunity." The rest of the speech focused on the "trees" of his tenure as governor. Deal named successes such as new jobs, decreased unemployment, and economic development. He highlighted the growth of Georgia's film industry, noting that in the past 10 years the industry grew from generating $241 million in economic impact to $9.5 billion. He also named "trees" of education, infrastructure, criminal justice reform, and mental health services.

Deal urged the members of the legislature to view their actions like a farmer planting a tree, thinking, "Will our actions help or hinder those who come after us?"

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Hawaii

Gov. David Ige (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 22. Ige described Hawaii as a place of diversity, tolerance, and health, with the country's lowest unemployment rate and the highest bond rating in Hawaii's history. He noted challenges facing the state including the need for more affordable housing and better paying job opportunities. Ige stated, "My personal goal—the goal to which I have dedicated my service as governor—is creating a Hawaiʻi that gives all our children the CHOICE to live here and call Hawai‘i home."

Ige also addressed environmental issues including conservation, climate change, and renewable energy. He expressed excitement for increased agricultural production, technological research, and entrepreneurship in the state, saying, "Imagine a future economy for Hawai‘i that isn’t reliant solely on tourism and the military. Imagine a future where local entrepreneurs are inventing useful products and services that are sold across the globe."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Idaho

Gov. Butch Otter (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 8. Otter reviewed his budget proposal and policy goals for the year, starting with education and workforce development. He also discussed tax relief, health insurance, fire protection, forest health, disaster relief, and water conservation. He stated, "Everything we’re doing in education, workforce training, health and public safety is about strengthening and protecting Idaho’s children and families."

Otter then transitioned to the topic of data privacy and cybersecurity. He also provided an update on nuclear research in Idaho, saying, "Coming soon is the next stage in developing small modular reactor technology that could be the future of nuclear energy."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Illinois

Gov. Bruce Rauner (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Illinois State Legislature on January 31. Rauner began by reviewing a number of Illinois' accomplishments throughout history. He claimed that in the past, "[Y]ou could find work in Illinois, afford a home and rely on the public schools to educate your children." He continued, "Today, we have an opportunity to turn yesterday into tomorrow, and make Illinois the powerhouse job creator it should be."

Rauner listed a set of challenges facing the state including reducing property taxes, instituting term limits, and reforming pensions. He stated, "It is time we do what the people of Illinois want. Halt the advance of taxes. Stop spending money we don’t have. Get our pensions under control. ... The surest road to economic vitality and job growth is a collaborative effort to regain our financial integrity." Rauner also celebrated improvements in the state's education and criminal justice systems.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Indiana

Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 9. Early in the speech, Holcomb stated, "Our greatest challenge is that too many Hoosiers lack the education and skills for the jobs that are here today and being created tomorrow—nearly all of which require a postsecondary education." He then outlined a number of goals for improving education and job readiness in the state. Holcomb also discussed the importance of strengthening the economy, attracting businesses, and improving transportation and water infrastructures. Other challenges included dealing with the opioid epidemic and addressing the state's high infant mortality rate.

Holcomb concluded with a call to civility, saying, "I’m convinced that our ultimate goals—this ambitious to-do list—will remain elusive unless we stay open to different points of views, treat each other with respect and focus not on what divides us, but on what we have in common."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Iowa

Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) delivered the 2018 Condition of the State address before a joint session of the Iowa State Legislature on January 9. Reynolds began by reviewing actions taken in her first year as governor, such as balancing the budget and passing voter ID laws. She then emphasized the importance of improving Iowa's water quality, which she called an item of "unfinished business" from 2017. Reynolds addressed the issue of sexual harassment, saying, "Throughout history, sexual harassment has been a stain on our culture, a destructive force—in politics, media and entertainment, in workplaces large and small—in all facets of life. And it must stop."

Reynolds also announced an initiative that would focus on rural Iowa, as well as a proposal to update the tax code. She discussed challenges in the areas of health insurance, mental health, and addiction. Reynolds concluded her address on the topics of education and job training, stating, "I want children to know, from the earliest age, that they have options. I want them to know that trade programs and community colleges can prepare them for high-paying careers."

Read full text of the 2018 Condition of the State address here.

Kansas

Gov. Sam Brownback (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Kansas State Legislature on January 9. Brownback began by listing a series of accomplishments from the previous year. He then set out educational goals and objectives for the state and expressed the desire for Kansas to be at the forefront of medical research. He stated a wish for Kansas to be known as the "Renewable State," exporting wind energy and having a sustainable water supply. He asked listeners to dream that Kansas would become the aviation capital of the world and that the agricultural capital of the world would be Kansas City.

Brownback also addressed the topics of human trafficking, racial reconciliation, and abortion.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Kentucky

Gov. Matt Bevin (R) delivered his 2018 State of the Commonwealth address to a joint session of the Kentucky State Legislature on January 16.[5] Bevin reviewed 2017 job creation and investment numbers, giving credit to legislation implemented the previous year for the growth of both. He made seven commitments to the state: funding pensions, fixing the foster care system, fighting the opioid crisis, investing in education, reforming entitlements, investing in law enforcement and criminal justice, and reforming the tax code. He then delved into the 2018 budget details of these commitments.

Of the budget Bevin said, "It is a realistic budget. It is one that is not wishful thinking. It's one that we must pass. And it will set us on course for to get our house in order so that the future will be bright and so that our excitement that we have will continue to be as real as it is today."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address here.

Louisiana

Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Louisiana State Legislature on March 12. Edwards began by expressing his disappointment in an unsuccessful special session the previous week. He then highlighted a number of accomplishments from the previous year in the areas of economics, healthcare, addiction, criminal justice, disaster relief, and foster care. Next, Edwards listed his priorities for 2018, some of which included helping small businesses, reducing occupational licensing regulations, ending child hunger, reducing poverty, raising the minimum wage, and protecting the elderly from abuse.

Edwards summarized, "I want to make life better for workers throughout our industries, for students, for children in need, for seniors, for emergency responders, for teachers, for business owners, for military families, for the vulnerable and poor, for your family and my family."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Maine

Gov. Paul LePage (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on February 13. Of his last year as governor, LePage said, "Now is not the time to slow down. I will continue working until the last minute of my last day." He listed priorities for the year, including decreasing property taxes, conforming to federal tax code, sustainably funding Medicaid expansion, having a consistent age of adulthood, growing the economy, and becoming more fiscally responsible.

"We have made great progress implementing reforms that have brought greater prosperity and created jobs," LePage said. He then asked the citizens of Maine to choose carefully who they would vote for in the next election.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Maryland

Gov. Larry Hogan (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the Maryland State Legislature on January 31. Hogan began by reviewing his first three years in office. He proposed expanding two pieces of legislation from the previous year, the More Jobs for Marylanders Act and the Hometown Heroes Act. Hogan then moved on to the topic of education, noting, "Our budget provides an unprecedented $6.5 billion for K-12 education, which is more than the legislative funding formulas call for." He also mentioned developments in the areas of infrastructure projects, environmental issues, and the opioid epidemic.

Hogan urged lawmakers to strengthen anti-gang laws and pass the Repeat Sexual Predator Prevention Act.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Massachusetts

Gov. Charlie Baker (R) delivered the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address to a joint session of the state legislature on January 23. Baker began with a summary of various statistics, ratings, and other indications of progress made during his time as governor. He announced that his budget proposal would raise education spending by over $100 million, expanding funding for college scholarships, early college programs, the Commonwealth Commitment plan, early childhood education, and teacher salaries. Baker also discussed the status of a renewable energy project, stating, "The process enabled by our 2016 legislation will lead to clean energy pricing that’s competitive with carbon-emitting fossil fuels, a huge win for families, businesses and our environment."

Baker also addressed the topics of climate change, healthcare, opioid abuse, mental health services, affordable housing, job training, aging, and education.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Michigan

Gov. Rick Snyder (R) gave the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the state legislature on January 23. Snyder began by describing the "incredible comeback of Michigan" during his tenure, citing examples of job creation, manufacturing growth, increased tourism, and developments in education and infrastructure.

Snyder set out six areas for the state to address in the coming year: "Mobility," which he described as the "convergence of the auto industry and the IT industry;" "Talent," or connecting people to careers; "Education;" "Infrastructure," which included subcategories of rural broadband, the Clean Michigan Initiative, recycling, invasive species, and water infrastructure; "Fiscal Responsibility;" and "Civility."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Minnesota

Gov. Mark Dayton (D) delivered his final State of the State address to a joint session of the Minnesota State Legislature on March 14, 2018. Dayton praised a 2013 tax increase on the wealthiest 2 percent of Minnesotans for contributing to economic growth in the state, saying, "The change has made Minnesota's tax system more progressive and has been crucial in turning chronic budget deficits into steady surpluses; paying off the state's debt to our schools; eliminating other fiscal shenanigans; and building a $1.9 billion budget and cash reserve." He argued that higher taxes were beneficial to the state as long as the revenues were invested in education and infrastructure. Dayton stated, "Restoring fiscal stability to our state budget is one of the most important legacies I can leave Minnesota."

Dayton also addressed the topics of health insurance, firearm regulations, and conformity to the federal tax bill.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 9. Bryant began by listing "accomplishments to celebrate and be proud of," including the lowest unemployment rate recorded in state history, job creation, economic development and investments, and reduced professional regulations. He then addressed the topics of opioid abuse, education, and healthcare.

Bryant also reflected on the openings of the Civil Rights Museum and the Museum of Mississippi History. He stated, "I am told some 20 million people watched the president’s tour and remarks that day at the Civil Rights Museum. It seemed the entire world was watching as Mississippi told our own story."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Missouri

Gov. Eric Greitens (R) gave the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Missouri State Legislature on January 10.[6] Greitens began his speech with a reflection on the life of Missourian George Washington Carver. He committed to fight for those who, like Carver, "are strong and proud, and while they may not have pull or power or privilege, they do have enormous potential." He celebrated job growth in the state, saying that Missouri had "the lowest unemployment rate it's had in 17 years."

Greitens also praised developments in the state's foster care and adoption systems, addressed the topics of regulatory reform and tax reform, and expressed support for law enforcement officers and military veterans.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Nebraska

Gov. Pete Ricketts (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 10. After highlighting a series of bills passed by the Nebraska State Senate in the previous session, Ricketts celebrated the state's "record levels of employment with over 1 million non-farm jobs and the lowest unemployment rate in [the] state since 1999 at 2.7 percent."

Ricketts named the state budget as his first priority for the year, stating, "I am proposing across-the-board reductions of 2 percent in this fiscal year and 4 percent in the next year." He expressed support for the Nebraska Property Tax Cuts and Opportunity Act and emphasized his desire to reduce taxes.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

New Hampshire

Gov. Chris Sununu (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the New Hampshire State Legislature on February 15. Sununu began with a focus on education and school safety. He expressed support for Marsy's Law, a constitutional amendment intended to protect victims of crime. Sununu also addressed the topics of mental health, which he called the "unspoken crisis of our state," and the opioid epidemic, which he described as "our state's most serious challenge."

Sununu continued his address with a overview of the state's economy. He also encouraged the legislature to improve healthcare for veterans and increase awareness for homeless youth. On the topic of immigration he stated, "While I firmly believe that action must be taken to curb illegal immigration, it is also imperative that the process for legal immigration becomes more streamlined and practical."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

New Jersey

Gov. Chris Christie (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the New Jersey State Legislature on January 9. Christie highlighted economic growth and financial stability in the state, saying, "[T]he budget we hand off to the next Administration is in balance, with a surplus, and not the $2 billion deficit that we were handed eight years ago."

Christie followed up on his 2017 State of the State address, which focused on the opioid crisis, reporting, "We have the nation's strongest limit on opioid prescriptions and since we implemented our new restrictions those prescriptions have decreased by over 15%." He also reflected on 2012's Superstorm Sandy, saying, "Whenever I am asked what I am most proud of in my eight years, it is the days, weeks, months and years since Sandy and the way our government handled it."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

New Mexico

Gov. Susana Martinez (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the New Mexico State Legislature on January 16. Martinez began by reflecting on economic challenges that the state had faced throughout her tenure. She then stated, "It was not a luxury afforded to me upon entering office, so I am particularly proud to say that whoever succeeds me will inherit a strong savings account with at least 10 percent of our state revenue in reserves, ... and strong economic growth that is broader and more diversified than it’s been in decades."

Throughout the rest of the speech, Martinez focused on her priorities for the year, saying, "This session, we must work together to keep our economy moving, pass a responsible budget, make New Mexico a safer place for families and the worst place in America to be a criminal, and finally adopt the reforms necessary to ensure every child receives the quality education they deserve."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

New York

Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the New York State Legislature on January 3. Cuomo reviewed various accomplishments of his time as governor, saying that "crime is down statewide, we have a cleaner environment, we have a fairer criminal justice system, we have more high school graduates who are attending colleges, we have preserved more land than ever before, enacted a more progressive tax code, launched the most ambitious building program in the country."

Cuomo categorized three types of challenges facing the state: those of discrimination, threats to safety, and threats to the economy. He then responded to various issues in each category.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

North Dakota

Gov. Doug Burgum (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 23. Burgum said that the "State of the State is one of unlimited promise and potential, provided that we embrace change, we diversify our economy, and we harness the unstoppable forces of technology." He then reflected on challenges from the previous year, including the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, severe drought, and budget issues. Burgum also discussed oil production, property taxes, cybersecurity, addiction, and education.

Burgum concluded his address by focusing on gratitude and challenging the people of North Dakota to each write a hand-written note of gratitude to someone who made a difference in their lives.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Ohio

Gov. John Kasich (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Ohio State Legislature on March 6.[7] Kasich began the speech with a discussion of philosophy, saying that throughout history people have asked "Why? What about us? What are we supposed to do?" He then mentioned the work of philosophers from Plato and Aristotle to Camus and Kierkegaard. After expressing the conclusion that "human reason is imperfect," he argued for the importance of values: love, compassion, humility, forgiveness, personal responsibility, justice, and respect. He then applied those values to Ohio polices related to healthcare, mental health, opiates, developmental disabilities, criminal justice, human trafficking, job creation, and the environment.

Regarding politics, Kasich said, "[T]he worst thing in life is not to lose an election. The worst thing in life is to serve yourself instead of others."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Oklahoma

Gov. Mary Fallin (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Oklahoma State Legislature on February 6. Fallin stated that she would not use her speech to reflect on her seven-year tenure as governor, but instead to "focus on the future and make sure that we recognize and embrace the opportunity we have in front of us." She discussed the year's budget, saying that "our goal this session should be to fix the chronic budget crisis," and she urged the legislature to pass the Step Up Oklahoma plan.

In the speech's conclusion Fallin stated, "Oklahomans deserve more than small dreams. They need solutions. They need solutions that will allow their big dreams to come true."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Oregon

Gov. Kate Brown (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on February 5. In her speech, Brown focused on education and job training. She stated, "There is a gap between the skills Oregon’s workers have and the skills that our growing businesses need." Brown announced the launch of the Future Ready Oregon initiative, a program designed to prepare Oregonians for careers in a changing economy.

Brown also mentioned the topics of healthcare, immigration, government efficiency, and opioid addiction. In the conclusion of her address she encouraged members of the government to "always keep our eyes on the horizon, making sure that the next generation has opportunities to make better lives for themselves."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here

Pennsylvania

Gov. Tom Wolf (D) delivered the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address to a joint session of the Pennsylvania State Legislature on February 6. The theme of Wolf's address was writing a new story for the state, "a story about a brighter future we can build together – if we can muster up the political will to do it." He proposed to do this through addressing the areas of education, employment, government cooperation, and the budget.

Regarding the budget, Wolf stated, "[B]ecause we’ve begun to take a new approach to our budget, I can come before you today with a budget that makes the investments we need to continue our progress without any tax increases on Pennsylvania families." He also urged the legislature to pass a severance tax.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address here.

Rhode Island

Gov. Gina Raimondo (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address on January 16. The refrain of Raimondo's speech was "Let's keep going," and she urged the legislature to continue making progress in various areas including the economy, the environment, education, and infrastructure. Raimondo also addressed the opioid crisis and mental health care, saying, "In the coming weeks, I'll propose legislation to make health insurance companies cover addiction and mental health treatment just like they cover diabetes or other chronic conditions."

Raimondo claimed that public school buildings across the state were crumbling and encouraged, "Together with our cities and towns, let's commit to investing $1 billion over the next five years to fix our public schools."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

South Carolina

Gov. Henry McMaster (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the South Carolina State Legislature on January 24. McMaster highlighted tax cuts in his budget proposal, also stating that "retired veterans, first responders and law officers will never pay state income taxes on their retirement pay again – ever." Other topics covered in McMaster's address included workforce development, education, school choice, immigration, criminal justice, opioid addiction, abortion, environmental issues, and ethics reform.

McMaster concluded his speech by saying, "Above all, I ask that we reaffirm our commitment to being smart, innovative and doing more with less. Let the taxpayers keep more and more of their money. Let us build a state government which is efficient, transparent and accountable, and let our service be distinguished by wisdom, vision and steady hands."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

South Dakota

Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R) delivered his final State of the State address on January 9, 2018. During his speech, Daugaard "listed his administration’s accomplishments in areas including health care, workforce education and training, tribal relations, and agriculture."[8] On the topic of workforce education Daugaard said, “We are encouraging high schools to expand the availability of work and education experiences such as apprenticeships or job shadowing during school.”[9] The address also "included remarks on ... the use of non-meandered waters for recreational use."[10]

The transcript of the 2018 State of the State address is no longer available. Watch the address here.

Tennessee

Gov. Bill Haslam (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the Tennessee State Legislature on January 29. Haslam listed accomplishments from his seven-year tenure as governor, including job growth, tax cuts, spending cuts, and the lowest unemployment rate and highest high school graduation rate in state history. He then said, "This evening, I am proposing a bold new challenge. I want Tennessee to lead the nation in jobs, education and government efficiency. I don't just want us to compete; I want us to be the best."

Other issues addressed in the speech included education, public administration, the opioid epidemic, and juvenile justice.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Utah

Gov. Gary Herbert (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the Utah State Legislature on January 24. Instead of listing accomplishments from the previous year, Herbert provided listeners with the link to a website containing "Utah bragging rights," as well as specific budget and policy details. He then listed priorities for the session, including education funding, tax reform, infrastructure and transportation funding, emissions reduction, and strengthening the social safety net.

Herbert stated, "I would like to talk about building our future together, about how we perpetuate our unique culture of self-reliance and personal responsibility, and how, together, we can build a better, a kinder, and a more civil world." He then looked back over Utah's political history, and he asked, "How will the decisions we make today shape Utah 100 years into the future?"

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Vermont

Gov. Phil Scott (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the Vermont State Legislature on January 4. Scott acknowledged financial challenges facing the state, saying, "We must first restore our economic and fiscal foundation to ensure we have the funding needed to achieve our aspirations for Vermont." He also addressed issues related to the state's high cost of living, aging workforce, lack of workers, shrinking tax base, and lack of affordable housing. Other topics mentioned in the address included education, workforce development, climate change, healthcare, and the opioid crisis.

In the conclusion of his speech Scott stated, "I ask each and every one of you to remember that if we fail to focus on putting our economic house in order, then we’ll be back next year, and the year after, and the year after that, seeking short-term, stop-gap solutions to solve long-term problems."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Virginia

Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) delivered the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address before a joint session of the Virginia State Legislature on January 10. McAuliffe highlighted accomplishments of his time as governor spanning various categories including transportation, climate change, education, criminal justice, and others. Regarding his proposed budget he stated, "By making the right decisions and investments, we have built a new Virginia economy – and the budget I leave you will keep that momentum going."

McAuliffe then set forth policy goals for the year, saying, "[T]his year presents a unique opportunity to move Virginia forward on a number of issues that are important to the health, safety and prosperity of the families we serve."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the Commonwealth address here.

Washington

Gov. Jay Inslee (D) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Washington State Legislature on January 9. Inslee focused his speech on leaving a legacy, saying, "We have a duty to focus on our legacy ... Several opportunities are in front of us to forge a prosperous path for the next generation." Throughout the address he listed many areas for leaving a legacy, including passing the Washington Voting rights act, protecting net neutrality, ensuring women access to contraception, and improving education and apprenticeship programs. He also encouraged the legislature to leave legacies related to the topics of mental health care, homelessness, criminal justice, opioid addiction, affordable housing, gun violence, and the death penalty.

In his discussion of environmental issues, Inslee argued, "It is our state’s destiny — because of who we are — to defeat climate change."

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

West Virginia

Gov. Jim Justice (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the West Virginia State Legislature on January 10. Justice stated, "Forever we've struggled a little bit. And as a matter of fact, we've struggled maybe a lot. At times we were always in a contest with Mississippi, who was going to be last and who was going to be in 49th place. Well, something has happened." Employing a metaphor that related West Virginia's economy to Frankenstein's monster, Justice said, "Well, we're alive. And we're moving now."

Justice also addressed the topics of opioid addiction, education, state parks, agriculture, and tourism.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Wisconsin

Gov. Scott Walker (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address to a joint session of the Wisconsin State Legislature on January 24. Walker celebrated improvements in employment, healthcare, test scores and graduation rates, agriculture, transportation, and other areas. He then stated, "I am laying out an Ambitious Agenda for 2018 to keep us headed in the right direction." Agenda items included education, career training, welfare reform, and criminal justice reform. As part of his agenda, Walker also proposed a $100 child tax credit, Small Business Plan, and Health Care Stability Plan.

Walker asked the legislature to pass the recommendations of a bipartisan commission tasked with fighting the opioid crisis.

Read full text of the 2018 State of the State address here.

Wyoming

Gov. Matt Mead (R) delivered the 2018 State of the State address before a joint session of the Wyoming State Legislature on February 12. Mead reflected on his time in office, listing various accomplishments ranging from reducing government spending to conservation and wildlife management. Looking ahead, Mead discussed his budget proposal, Economically Needed Diversity Options for Wyoming (ENDOW) recommendations, and education funding.

In concluding his address Mead said, "By spending neither too much nor too little, by continuing to invest in the future of our state and economic diversification efforts, and by responsibly taking on education funding, we will serve the citizens of our state well this session."

Watch the 2018 State of the State address here.

Historical state of the state addresses

2025

2024

Note: Governors Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.), Joe Lombardo (R-Nev.), Roy Cooper (D-N.C.), Tina Kotek (D-Ore.), and Greg Abbott (R-Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2024.

2023

2022

Note: Governors Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.), Roy Cooper (R-N.C.), and Greg Abbott (R-Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2022.

2021

Note: Governor Mike DeWine (R-Ohio) did not deliver a State of the State addresses in 2021.

2020

Note: Governors Steve Bullock (D-Mont.), Steve Sisolak (D-Nev.), Roy Cooper (D-N.C.), Mike DeWine (R-Ohio), Kate Brown (D-Ore.), and Greg Abbott (R-Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2020.

2019

Click here to view more information about the 2019 State of the State addresses.

2018

Click here to view more information about the 2018 State of the State addresses.

Note: Governors Steve Bullock (Montana), Brian Sandoval (Nevada), Roy Cooper (North Carolina), and Greg Abbott (Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2018.

2017

2016

Click here to view more information about the 2016 State of the State addresses.

Note: Governors Asa Hutchinson (Arkansas), Steve Bullock (Montana), Brian Sandoval (Nevada), Pat McCrory (North Carolina), Jack Dalrymple (North Dakota), Kate Brown (Oregon) and Greg Abbott (Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2016.

2015

Click here to view more information about the 2015 State of the State addresses.

2014

Note: Governors Mike Beebe (Arkansas), Steve Bullock (Montana), Brian Sandoval (Nevada), Pat McCrory (North Carolina), Jack Dalrymple (North Dakota), John Kitzhaber (Oregon) and Rick Perry (Texas) did not deliver State of the State addresses in 2014.

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

1998

1997

1996

1995

1994

1993

1992

1991

1990

See also

External links

Footnotes

  1. ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Alaska Gov. Walker, in State of the State speech, urges Legislature to act on budget deficit," accessed March 4, 2019
  2. ↑ Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, "Gov. Walker challenges legislators in "State of the State" address," accessed March 4, 2019
  3. ↑ Ibid.
  4. ↑ Ibid.
  5. ↑ C-SPAN, "Kentucky State of the Commonwealth Address," accessed March 10, 2019
  6. ↑ C-SPAN, "Missouri State of the State Address," accessed March 10, 2019
  7. ↑ cleveland.com, "John Kasich uses State of the State to reflect on the meaning of life," accessed March 11, 2019
  8. ↑ C-SPAN, "South Dakota State of the State Address," accessed March 11, 2019
  9. ↑ KOTA TV, "Governor delivers his State of the State address," accessed March 11, 2019
  10. ↑ South Dakota Public Broadcasting, "2018 State of the State Address from Gov. Daugaard," accessed March 11, 2019
  11. ↑ Note: Although this speech is technically an "inauguration" speech, it occurred before the legislature and outlined her priorities and plans for the state. Gov. Kate Brown did not give a separate speech officially classed as the "state of the state" in 2017.
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