How the Deal-O-Meter works

We gave the Deal-O-Meter six levels. The first three provide a broad
picture of whether Deal is making progress; the final three indicate
whether he kept the promise:

Not Yet Rated — Every promise begins at this level and retains this rating
until we see evidence of progress — or evidence that the promise has
stalled.

In the Works — This is our broad category to indicate the promise has been
proposed or is being considered.

Stalled — There is no movement on the promise, perhaps because of
limitations on money, opposition from lawmakers or a shift in priorities.

Promise Broken – The promise has not been fulfilled. This could occur
because of inaction by the governor or lack of support from the Legislature
or other group that was critical for the promise to be fulfilled.

Compromise — Promises will earn this rating when they accomplish
substantially less than Deal’s original statement but when there is still
a significant accomplishment that is consistent with the goal of his
original promise.

Promise Kept — They’ll earn this rating when the original promise is mostly
or completely fulfilled.