PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Following Gov. Dan McKee's State of the State address on Tuesday, R.I. Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz gave the Republican response. De la Cruz said the state of Rhode Island under McKee "has been deeply troubled." "In just over a year, many long-neglected and avoidable problems have led to critical failures," she explained. She cited the Washington Bridge closure and recent RIBridges data breach as those "avoidable problems." During his speech, McKee said an assault weapons ban would be included in his budget proposal, which de la Cruz called a "completely out of place" move. "If the governor wants to push gun control, perhaps he needs a civics lesson," she said. "Legislation is crafted and debated by the General Assembly -- by senators and representatives -- not hidden in the state's budget." She also focused on "reckless overspending" of taxpayer dollars, while mentioning shortcomings in housing and education. Citing a report by the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, de la Cruz said the state spent "$273 million to produce just 1,600 new affordable housing units" with "subsidies exceeding $160,000 per unit." "That is not an efficient use of taxpayer dollars," she added. On education, de la Cruz said the state spends "among the highest per pupil in the nation" yet "only 30% of our students are proficient in English and Math." "That means 70% of children in our state can not meet basic academic standards," de la Cruz explained. She also highlighted legislative priorities by the state GOP to address the issues raised. These goals are creating office of an Inspector General and cut 10% of spending for each department's budget. "Our state budget is bloated," she said. "And it needs to be put on a diet." Watch de la Cruz's full response in the video above. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Nesi's Notes SIGN UP NOW