I am not sure I understand the people of this state. According to the latest polls, they think that Gov. M. Jodi Rell is doing an outstanding job. Polls also show they approve of increasing spending for education.

On the other hand, they don't approve of a budget that would increase the state income tax - probably the only significant thing the governor has proposed or done during her tenure. (Before anyone asks, I am a Republican and I did vote for her.)

Now the results of this latest poll have put the legislature in a bind. If you're a Republican, how do you go against one of your own to stop such an unpopular idea? If you are a Democrat, how do you turn down this gift that supposedly will help accomplish some of your goals?

Keeping all of this in mind, I think that both parties may be losing sight of one of the most important factors - the people of this state who will suffer the most from this proposal (it's not the rich and famous).

Increasing the income tax will harm those who can least afford it. Even if this tax does help lower property taxes (yeah, right; when was the last time you saw your property tax go down), I know very few hard-working people in the lower- and middle-income classes that a decrease in property taxes will help. However, I guarantee that an increase in income tax for these people will hurt.

If the state wants to increase spending for education, there are other ways - like cutting expenses. Maybe the governor needs to find a budget adviser who knows how to to this.

One last thought: I don't feel that anyone should put down the opinions of Dick Armey simply because he doesn't live in this state.

I think recent polls show the majority of people believe exactly as he does. Since it would appear that no one in the state is willing to speak up for us, I am glad that we have someone who will.

Paul Martin
Bristol