Jobs Woes Continue As Republican Budget Doubles Down on Failed Economic Agenda

MADISON – New figures released today by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics show Wisconsin now ranks 38^th in private-sector job growth over the past year and continues to lag our neighboring states, ranking dead last in the Midwest during Gov. Walker‘s first term and the first four years of the Republican legislative majority. These numbers come from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW).

In response, Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) released the following statement:

“While Wisconsin’s economy is ranked dead last in the Midwest and Republican budget negotiations are at a standstill, Governor Walker continues to travel the country and world promoting his presidential campaign instead of doing the job he was elected to do.

“Under Republicans’ watch, Wisconsin ranks 38^th in job growth, dead last in the nation in new business startups, and faces job growth that is only a fraction of the national average. Instead of focusing on creating jobs and stimulating our economy, Republicans have been focused on divisive social issues and paying back out-of-state special interest groups that support Gov. Walker’s presidential campaign.

“Here in Wisconsin, our citizens continue to suffer from the failures of irresponsible budgeting and a jobs agency that is rife with leadership failure and potential corruption. Wisconsin taxpayers deserve an explanation on potential ethical and criminal violations and the ongoing mismanagement of taxpayer funds at Gov. Walker’s WEDC. Taxpayers also deserve to know why our tax money continues to go to companies that ship Wisconsin jobs overseas.

“There is no doubt that Wisconsin’s economy will continue to lag behind as Republicans double down on their failed policies. Rather than working to put together a responsible budget that invests in small businesses, education, job training and our communities, Republicans continue to cause harm to our public schools and make devastating cuts to our state’s economic driver – our world-class university system. Republicans also continue to float policies that would give major tax breaks to the wealthiest citizens while the middle class endures fewer opportunities.

“The people of Wisconsin are being sold out to special interests – and our economy and the pocketbooks of working people will continue to suffer as a result.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.