Democracy Trampled in Wisconsin - Thursday, March 10, 2011

Rapid Response Feedback Report

Democracy Trampled in Wisconsin

“In 30 minutes, 18 state senators undid 50 years of civil rights in Wisconsin."
- Wisconsin Senator Mark Miller (D)

Late yesterday evening as spectators screamed “you are cowards,” the Senate majority in Wisconsin rammed through devastating legislation that strips public employees of their bargaining rights.

Termed the “nuclear option,” Governor Walker and his Senate allies removed the financial components of the unpopular budget bill, which allowed them to get around the rule of needing 20 Senators to vote on a fiscal matter. They hadn’t had that number since the fourteen Senate Democrats left the state three weeks ago in order to block a vote.

As part of the process yesterday evening, those spearheading this effort engaged in questionable and possibly illegal actions that run afoul of the state’s open meeting laws.

The vote was 18-1. Only Republicans voted, with Senator Dale Schultz (R) being the single no vote.

These actions:

Show that Governor Walker and his Senate allies have no regard for public opinon, which is strongly in favor of public sector collective bargaining rights.
Attest to the fact that none of the provisions on bargaining rights had anything to do with the budget as has been repeatedly claimed.
Point to the ideologically-driven, deep-pocket funders who seek an anti-union agenda through the politicians they support.

The bill now moves to the Assembly. Recall efforts are underway targeting a number of Senators who have supported these extremist measures. Stay engaged with Rapid Response for upcoming solidarity actions and for information on how you can support the key legislative fights happening in your state.

The fight goes on!

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Democracy Trampled in Wisconsin - Thursday, March 10, 2011