The Contrarian

George Mitchell is a former journalist and veteran observer of government who has held positions in federal, state, and county government and served as a consultant to various governmental and private sector groups.

The Contrarian: Mum’s The Word For Justice Abrahamson
The Contrarian

Mum’s The Word For Justice Abrahamson

For 43 years she said nothing about Legislature’s “illegitimate” sessions. Until now.

The Contrarian: The Anti-Gas Tax Gang
The Contrarian

The Anti-Gas Tax Gang

Why just five Republican naysayers could kill a gas tax hike.

The Contrarian: Voucher, Charter Schools More Cost Effective
The Contrarian

Voucher, Charter Schools More Cost Effective

Report finds they deliver at least 50% more education per tax dollar than public schools.

The Contrarian: Evers Dead Wrong On Pot Convictions
The Contrarian

Evers Dead Wrong On Pot Convictions

Less than one percent of male inmates jailed for drug possession.

The Contrarian: Evers Backs Off On Killing Vouchers
The Contrarian

Evers Backs Off On Killing Vouchers

Governor admits it can’t be done. His own DPI data shows why it shouldn’t be done.

The Contrarian: About that Republican Cash Surplus
The Contrarian

About that Republican Cash Surplus

The term is meaningless and such half-truths muddy our understanding of state budget.

The Contrarian: The Double Standard of Duey Stroebel
The Contrarian

The Double Standard of Duey Stroebel

He attacks Evers appointee while ignoring “Ethical Baggage” of 13 Walker appointees.

The Contrarian: The Incredible Decline of State Roads Funding
The Contrarian

The Incredible Decline of State Roads Funding

Nonpartisan report shows percent of state taxes going to transportation fell 48% since 1970.

The Contrarian: The “Ethical Baggage” of Duey Stroebel
The Contrarian

The “Ethical Baggage” of Duey Stroebel

Republican legislator is the last person to lecture Evers’ appointee Craig Thompson on ethics.

The Contrarian: New History Is Being Made
The Contrarian

New History Is Being Made

But will our current leaders live up to the example of our founders?

The Contrarian: Could Milwaukee Freeway Project Be Revived?
The Contrarian

Could Milwaukee Freeway Project Be Revived?

Walker killed E-W freeway project, but Evers could revive it.

The Contrarian: New Transportation Secretary Faces Tough Choices
The Contrarian

New Transportation Secretary Faces Tough Choices

Evers choice, Craig Thompson, will be improvement on Walker era, but faces huge problems.