While the rest of the nation is deep in a slump (or worse), Texas' economy is faring relatively well, thanks in large part to the relatively wise and conservative stewardship of the last eight years. But Texas Gov. Rick Perry is urging caution, and telling agencies to tighten their belts: "We are obligated to not only watch the outside forces affecting our economy, but deal with them proactively."

The Dallas Morning News is reporting the following:

Mr. Perry sent agency heads a letter Monday asking them “to take immediate steps to prepare for a slowing economy by curtailing taxpayer-funded travel and looking for other opportunities to rein in expenditures within your agencies.”

This is the leadership Texans expect.

The left tells us we need more and more taxes and various avenues into people’s wallets. When times are good, they say, raise taxes and grow government. When times are bad, raise taxes and grow government. Every day and economic situation is an excuse to hike spending and takes.

The experience of California and the other "progressive" states demonstrates that as more taxes that are levied and spending increased, the more disastrous the economic downturns tend to be.

In his press release, Perry said, “We have made tough choices throughout the years that have helped our state attain the overall strength we enjoy today, and we must continue to follow these principles as we prepare for the long-term effects of this national economic downturn.”