Governor Tony Evers said Wednesday evening that budget talks with Republican leaders had hit a wall, despite his agreement to include their top priority—a tax cut. Evers pointed to GOP resistance on funding priorities like K-12 schools, child care, and the UW System as the reason the deal fell apart. His office noted that meetings had picked up recently, happening daily this week, and expressed frustration that Republicans walked away after months of negotiation. “Compromise means everyone gets something they want, and no one gets everything they want,” Evers said.

Republican leaders quickly responded, saying they’re done negotiating for now and will move ahead with their own plan through the Joint Finance Committee. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and JFC Co-chair Howard Marklein said the Governor’s proposals go beyond what taxpayers can afford. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Co-chair Mark Born left the door open for more talks but admitted the two sides are still far apart. Democratic leaders slammed the move, saying walking away now adds more uncertainty at a time when families are already facing challenges.