Jon Richards is a former representative in the Wisconsin State Assembly.
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Content referencing Jon Richards
Marisabel Cabrera Brings Experience and Dedication to Circuit Court Campaign
Oct 22nd, 2023 by Marisabel Cabrera
Where Are Act 10 Players Today?
Governor and three-fourths of legislators engaged in 2011 battle over law crushing public unions have moved on.
Mar 1st, 2021 by Steven WaltersJudge Candidate Switches Races
Attorney Susan Roth switches to run for Judge Fiorenza's seat, who resigns and will support Roth.
Nov 30th, 2020 by Graham KilmerSusan Roth Announces Candidacy Shift to Milwaukee County Circuit Court, Branch 3
Retiring Judge Clare L. Fiorenza endorses Roth, joins large list of supporters
Nov 30th, 2020 by Susan RothAppeals Court Judges Joe Donald and Maxine White endorse Judge Jon Richards
Nov 24th, 2020 by Jon Richards
Former Supreme Court Justice Louis Butler endorses Judge Jon Richards
Nov 23rd, 2020 by Jon Richards
Campaign Launched to Retain Jon Richards as Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge
Richards was appointed to Branch 30 by Governor Evers last month
Oct 12th, 2020 by Jon RichardsEvers Appointment Shakes Up Judicial Race
Schwantes drops out of circuit court race, endorses Evers' appointee Jon Richards.
Sep 23rd, 2020 by Graham KilmerGov. Evers Appoints Jon Richards and Reyna Morales to the Milwaukee County Circuit Court
Sep 21st, 2020 by Gov. Tony Evers
Milwaukee County Circuit Court – Branch 5
Blomme vs Dedinsky in one of two contested Milwaukee County circuit court races.
Mar 28th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCircuit Court Candidates
Three candidates competing for judgeship.
Feb 17th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneChris Larson Earns More Endorsements than Other Candidates Combined
Feb 13th, 2020 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Brett Blomme for Milwaukee County Circuit Court Announces List of Early Endorsements
“I am so honored to have earned the support of these great leaders.”
Aug 26th, 2019 by Brett BlommeFund for Lake Michigan Partners with Take Back My Meds MKE
Grant will help keep drugs out of Lake Michigan
Aug 13th, 2018 by Fund for Lake MichiganHarley Gave Generously to Republicans
So did Sartori Foods. Both now hurt by Trump tariffs.
Jun 26th, 2018 by Wisconsin Democracy CampaignKovac Raises Money for Reelection
Politicians, city officials and other notables chow down on food from Glorioso's.
Feb 15th, 2016 by Michael HorneRep. Barca Appoints Jon Richards Interim Chief of Staff
Richards served in the legislature from 1999-2015
Feb 1st, 2016 by State Rep. Peter BarcaRichards joins Ziino, Germanotta, Knoll & Christensen as Partner
He has been assisting Milwaukee-area families and small businesses with their legal needs for more than 20 years.
Jan 4th, 2016 by Ziino, Germanotta, Knoll & ChristensenMilwaukee Leaders Endorse Johnny Thomas for City Comptroller
“Johnny Thomas is the person that we need to be our next Milwaukee City Comptroller,” said Alderman Willie Wade.
Dec 23rd, 2015 by Johnny ThomasGwen Connolly campaign showing huge momentum
After her opponent this week jumped to the Branch 31 race, Connolly is widely seen as the prohibitive favorite to be the next judge in Branch 44.
Oct 23rd, 2015 by Gwen ConnollyAttorneys and judges rally behind Gwen Connolly in race for Circuit Court Judge
Milwaukee—Gwen Connolly today announced the endorsement of more than 160 additional attorneys and eleven more current and former judges in her race for Milwaukee County Circuit Court Branch 44, underlining her broad support in the legal community. Connolly previously announced the endorsement of more than a dozen circuit court and municipal judges, and many attorneys working to serve the poor. “Gwen Connolly is the right choice at the right time,” said Judge David Borowski. “She understands the law, the role of attorneys and judges, and commands the respect of her colleagues in the courtroom. She will be an excellent judge.” “It is an honor to have the support of so many of my colleagues in legal profession, all of whom share my vision for a justice system that works for the citizens of Milwaukee County,” said Connolly, a well-known consumer advocate. “I have been practicing law for more than 20 years, and in that time I have gained a true understanding of the law and how it applies in the real world. I’m ready to get to work.” “Gwen Connolly is an excellent lawyer and more than qualified to take on the role of a Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge,” said Attorney Eduardo Borda. “She advocates for citizens with wisdom and understanding, and as a judge, she would bring fairness, impartiality, and knowledge to the bench. She is the best choice and I am proud to support her. Gwen Connolly would make a superb judge.” “I have worked with Gwen for years, and I have seen firsthand the passion and commitment that she brings to everything she does,” said Attorney Margaret Hickey. “She works diligently for her clients and with excellent ethics. I am sure she will bring the same level of dedication to the bench.” “Gwen has a true commitment to her community both inside and outside the courtroom,” said Attorney Joseph Alioto. “Her desire to help others and her work to make Milwaukee County a better place has won her recognition from her colleagues, the State Bar, Legal Action, and the American Legion. She is the right person for the job, and I hope others will join me in supporting her.” “Gwen Connolly is the best choice for Branch 44,” said Attorney Jackie Boynton. “She is fair, understands the law, and truly appreciates the Milwaukee community. She’s well-positioned to succeed in any courtroom and I’m proud to be supporting her.” The following judges and attorneys today endorsed Gwen Connolly for Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge, Branch 44. The Honorable David L. Borowski, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Jane V. Carroll, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Dennis Moroney, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Ralph Ramirez, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable J.D. Watts, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Timothy Witkowiak, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Paul Christensen, Whitefish Bay Municipal Court Judge The Honorable Donald Hassin, former Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Joseph McCormack, former Ozaukee […]
Sep 8th, 2015 by Gwen ConnollyThe Twisted Tale of Talgo
Settlement forces state to pay more for trains it didn’t get, leaving it with slower Amtrak trains.
Aug 25th, 2015 by Bruce MurphyTalgo to keep trains, get $10 million more in settlement
Aug 19th, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Jason SteinEmbattled U.S. Attorney James Santelle to step down
Jul 2nd, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Cary SpivakRep. Brostoff’s Historic East Side Condo
The new assemblyman lives in an 1870s building once used for rooming houses, but now elegantly refurbished, like most of the neighborhood.
Dec 10th, 2014 by Michael HorneMilwaukee Small Group Insurance Cost Over 33% Higher Than Minneapolis
Report finds Wisconsin small businesses paying more for health coverage than Minnesota on average because of failure to use available tools.
Sep 11th, 2014 by Citizen Action of WisconsinMilwaukee’s Biggest Building Breaks Ground
"A beautiful day in Milwaukee" and for assembled power brokers as Northwestern Mutual's new skyscraper gets underway.
Aug 26th, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneAttorney General Race Could Be a Sizzler
Happ's dramatic victory sets up clash between two county DAs.
Aug 25th, 2014 by Bill LuedersAbele Goes O-fer On Election Night
Sheriff Clarke wins democratic primary. Plus: The rest of election night's winners and losers.
Aug 13th, 2014 by Michael HorneFor Rail or Trail
A path along the lake could connect cyclists/hikers to Ozaukee County, but coal freight is hogging the line.
Aug 12th, 2014 by Michael HornePick Tuesday’s Primary Winners
Burke v. Hulsey won't be close. But the 19th Assembly District Democratic primary looks to be very competitive, who will win it?
Aug 11th, 2014 by Steven WaltersHandicapping the Democratic Race for Attorney General
Jon Richards is the favorite. But is he the best choice?
Aug 7th, 2014 by Bruce MurphyAll Four Attorney General Candidates Back Open Records
They support open meetings rules for lawmakers and full access to online court records.
Aug 4th, 2014 by Dee J. HallWide-Open Battle for 19th Assembly District
Four talented candidates battling for open district which runs from Bay View to East Side.
Jul 14th, 2014 by Steven WaltersDemocrats Blast GOP Opponent for Attorney General
Was Brad Schimel lax in prosecuting alleged pay to play or are Democratic AG candidates blowing smoke?
Jul 9th, 2014 by Bill LuedersGun Bill Dies Without Shots Being Fired
Despite overwhelming support for bill toughening penalties for felony firearms offenses, Alberta Darling and Republicans give up on it.
Jun 25th, 2014 by Bill LuedersMud Fight for Attorney General?
The three Democrats running all have similar stands, so may have to attack each other to stand out.
Jun 16th, 2014 by Steven WaltersAssembly Hopefuls To Discuss Issues, Take Questions From Voters June 5 at East Side Candidate Forum
The four Democratic candidates for Wisconsin Assembly District 19 will discuss their positions and take questions from voters at a candidate forum 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday June 5 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2618 N. Hackett Avenue.
May 27th, 2014 by Press ReleaseAssembly Hopefuls To Discuss Issues, Take Questions From Voters June 5 at East Side Candidate Forum
The four Democratic candidates for Wisconsin Assembly District 19 will discuss their positions and take questions from voters at a candidate forum 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday June 5 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2618 N. Hackett Avenue.
May 27th, 2014 by Press ReleaseWisconsin Not a Leader in Drunken Driving?
New study says other states are worse. But experts say Wisconsin still has far to go on this issue.
May 5th, 2014 by Steven WaltersCasualties of War
The war over Act 10 may be a key reason 46% of legislators have left or will leave in just over two years.
Apr 14th, 2014 by Steven WaltersRep. Richards Urges Gov. Walker to Sign ShotSpotter Expansion
A bill to partially restore a $445,000 cut to the Milwaukee Police Department’s gunshot sensor program is headed to Gov. Scott Walker’s desk.
Apr 2nd, 2014 by Jon RichardsGet Your Vote On
Early voting already underway for spring election, and memorials planned for Debra Usinger and Donna Schlieman.
Mar 26th, 2014 by Michael HorneThe House of Hank the Dog
The Brewer's canine mascot has a nine-room Whitefish Bay home and 10,000 square foot lot to roam in, all worth $570,000.
Mar 24th, 2014 by Michael HorneBrostoff endorses Richards for Wisconsin attorney general
Jonathan Brostoff, candidate for Wisconsin State Assembly District 19, announced his endorsement today of State Representative Jon Richards for Wisconsin attorney general.
Feb 25th, 2014 by Rep. Jonathan BrostoffMarquette Likely to Get Its Own Police Force
Bill would give MU police the power to arrest on and off campus, and pursue criminals anywhere in the state.
Feb 19th, 2014 by Michael HorneRep. Richards Moves to Criminalize First Drunken Driving Offenses
Rep. Jon Richards unveiled legislation to criminalize first-offense drunken driving.
Feb 17th, 2014 by Jon Richards$32 Million Spent Lobbying State Legislators in 2013
End of year reports also show Walker raised three times more campaign dollars than Burke.
Feb 12th, 2014 by Bill LuedersRep. Richards Applauds Move to Provide $175,000 for ShotSpotter
Rep. Jon Richards released the following statement in support of a proposal announced today to provide $175,000 in state funds for the Milwaukee Police Department’s ShotSpotter Program.
Jan 16th, 2014 by Jon RichardsDrunk Driving Becomes Campaign Issue
Issue of whether to make first-time OWI a crime is hot issue in attorney general race.
Jan 13th, 2014 by Steven WaltersGoodbye Faye McBeath Foundation
The foundation created by a Milwaukee Journal heir gave untold millions to local causes since 1960s, but will spend its final assets this year.
Jan 8th, 2014 by Michael HorneRep. Richards Reaffirms Call to Pass Universal Background Checks Law
Today, Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) reaffirmed his call for a public hearing and passage of his bill to require criminal background checks for all firearms transactions in Wisconsin.
Jan 7th, 2014 by Jon RichardsCrazy Casino Politics
Both Gov. Walker and Mary Burke have mishandled the Kenosha Casino issue.
Dec 30th, 2013 by Bruce MurphyCampaign Season Kicks Off
Politicos flock to Jon Richards fundraiser, and judicial candidate Janet C. Protasiewicz's event.
Dec 18th, 2013 by Michael HorneMarina Will Battle Geenan for Assembly Seat
Dimitrijevic and Geenan are already competing for labor support.
Nov 21st, 2013 by Michael HorneLarson Aide May Run for Richards Seat
Plus: problems for the Bucks' Larry Sanders and redevelopment at Reed Street Yards.
Nov 14th, 2013 by Michael HorneBrookfield Square Welcomes County Buses
Unlike Southridge and other suburban malls, Brookfield Square actually runs ads to attract bus-riding city residents.
Nov 7th, 2013 by Michael HorneFour May Run for Richards’ Assembly Seat
The biggest name: sources say county board chair Marina Dimitrijevic is preparing to run.
Oct 30th, 2013 by Michael HorneMary Nohl vs. NIMBY
Proposal to open artist Mary Nohl's home to the public leaves Fox Point residents crying "not in my back yard!"
Oct 23rd, 2013 by Michael HorneRetiring With Guns Blazing
Several politicians have announced retirement, some diplomatically, others firing shots at their opponents.
Oct 21st, 2013 by Steven WaltersJon Richards Will Run for Attorney General
Like Abe Lincoln, Richards has been practicing law all across the state in preparation for his run.
Oct 16th, 2013 by Michael HorneWhy We Lost the Marsupial Bridge Swings
The city hasn't allocated money to maintain them. Should the nearby Business Improvement District adopt them?
Oct 10th, 2013 by Michael HorneRep. Richards Congratulates Wisconsin LGBT Chamber on One-Year Anniversary
Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) issued the following statement congratulating the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce on their one-year anniversary and the addition of their 100th member.
Sep 27th, 2013 by Jon RichardsBrewing as a Conceptual Art
Brenner Brewing has a ways to go before it functions as a working brewery. Plus: a fundraiser for the anti-Clarke candidate.
Sep 27th, 2013 by Michael HorneState Budget Committee’s Rep. Richards commends county leaders for vote in support of BadgerCare
County Leaders Say Strengthen BadgerCare as Walker Gets Ready to Drop Coverage for 92,000 People
Sep 23rd, 2013 by Jon RichardsShocking Conditions at the Courthouse
Court Commissioner Barry Slagle electrocuted in scary, unreported incident at courthouse.
Sep 19th, 2013 by Michael HorneMurray Ave Parklet Takes It to the Street
Parking spots on Milwaukee's East Side converted into a dining area.
Aug 24th, 2013 by Michael HorneRep. Richards to Introduce Legislation for Milwaukee Police Overtime Pay
Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee), a member of the Joint Finance Committee, today announced he will be introducing legislation to provide for $500,000 in state matching funds to boost city policing in the City of Milwaukee.
Aug 13th, 2013 by Jon RichardsEast Library Groundbreaking
Photos capture groundbreaking for new mixed-use development combining East Library, retail and apartments. Take that, Bayshore.
Jul 30th, 2013 by Jeramey JanneneFederal Court Hands Governor Walker Third Defeat This Month
Health care lawsuit against his administration moves forward
Jul 23rd, 2013 by Jon RichardsBudget Puts Extreme Policies before Middle-Class Families
Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee), a member of the legislature’s budget committee, issued the following statement on passage of the budget.
Jun 19th, 2013 by Jon RichardsRepublican budget turns $700 million surplus into $300 million structural deficit
Massive tax cuts for the wealthy take priority over public schools
Jun 11th, 2013 by Jon RichardsGOP wraps up budget panel work spending money taken from school kids on tax break for the rich
Press Release from Rep. Barca, Rep. Mason, and Rep. Ricards.
Jun 5th, 2013 by State Rep. Peter BarcaGOP Adopts Ideological Health Care Plan that Costs Taxpayers More, Insures Fewer People
Republicans attempted to disguise the issue by saying that those people could simply buy private coverage in the exchanges, but failed to note that their plan does not make that insurance affordable for them.
Jun 4th, 2013 by Jon RichardsIndependent analysis confirms GOP flat tax plan is massive tax giveaway to the wealthy at the expense of middle-class taxpayers
A new Republican flat tax plan would pay big dividends for Wisconsin’s most well off at the expense of the middle class, according to an independent analysis of the plan released today.
May 30th, 2013 by Jon RichardsRepublicans Dust Off Failed ‘Trickle Down’ Experiments of the Past
New GOP Flat Tax Scheme Benefits Wealthy at the Expense of Public Schools, Middle Class
May 28th, 2013 by Jon RichardsWalker food stamp plan puts mean-spirited ideology before taxpayers, common sense
Madison—Governor Scott Walker wants state taxpayers to pay an extra $16.7 million per year on his plan to take food off the tables of 31,350 low-income Wisconsinites.
May 21st, 2013 by Jon RichardsRepublican Finance Committee chairs rush to pump taxpayer money into broken jobs agency
Democratic call for full public and expert scrutiny of WEDC ignored by GOP leaders
May 6th, 2013 by Jon RichardsAudit of Gov. Walker’s Jobs Agency Confirms Worst Fears
WEDC fails as Wisconsin ranks last in Midwest for Job Growth
May 1st, 2013 by Jon RichardsImportant information from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyImportant information from Alderman Jim Bohl
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Ald. Jim BohlImportant information from Alderman Nik Kovac
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Nik KovacImportant Information from Alderman Willie C. Wade
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Willie WadeFirst budget day showcases a Tale of Two Budgets
Democratic JFC members note the Walker budget repeats the mistakes of the last budget that left Wisconsin 44th in the nation in job creation.
Mar 19th, 2013 by Racine Mayor Cory MasonNew Front Door for Lakefront
Dramatic plan moves freeway ramps and creates a grand boulevard that connects downtown and the lakefront.
Mar 11th, 2013 by Jeramey JannenePlan to Strengthen BadgerCare Unveiled at State Capitol
Provides another stepping stone to rebuilding Wisconsin’s middle-class
Feb 5th, 2013 by Jon RichardsEvery Politician in Town
Well, not quite, but the City's Birthday Party had a big turnout of politicians and insiders.
Feb 5th, 2013 by Michael HorneEvers Vs. Pridemore
The battle between State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Evers and challenger Don Pridemore.
Jan 28th, 2013 by Michael HorneRep. Richards’ Statement on Updated Revenue Projections
Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee), a member of the legislature’s budget-writing committee, released the following statement in response to the new revenue estimates released today by the Legislative Fiscal Bureau.
Jan 24th, 2013 by Jon RichardsNeighbors Boiling Over Boylston Plan
Too much congestion, they complain. Ald. Kovac is feeling the heat.
Jan 23rd, 2013 by Michael HorneEvent Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Alderman Nik Kovac, along with State Senator Chris Larson and State Representative Jon Richards, invites residents to a Community Town Hall meeting:
Jan 11th, 2013 by Press ReleaseRep. Barca announces Democratic committee assignments for upcoming legislative session
Today Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) announced the Assembly Democratic members of the standing and joint committees for the 2013-2014 legislative session.
Dec 21st, 2012 by State Rep. Peter BarcaRep. Richards Reappointed to Joint Finance Committee
Creating jobs and helping middle class are top priorities for Milwaukee lawmaker
Dec 21st, 2012 by Jon RichardsRep. Richards Proposes Requiring Background Checks for All Wisconsin Gun Sales
Today, Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) announced he is drafting legislation to require background checks for all gun purchases in Wisconsin.
Dec 19th, 2012 by Jon RichardsNew Wisconsin Health Insurance Cost Ranking
Milwaukee and Racine Have Highest Health Insurance Costs in State for 2013
Dec 19th, 2012 by Citizen Action of WisconsinRep. Richards: Gov. Walker needs to “shut the door” on ending same-day voter registration
No victory for voters or taxpayers until a veto is promised
Dec 12th, 2012 by Jon RichardsRep. Richards’ Huffington Post blog: Gov. Walker, GOP Allies Put Voter Suppression Ahead of Helping the Middle Class
In his latest blog post on the Huffington Post website, Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) calls on Gov. Scott Walker and legislative Republicans to drop their plans to end same-day voter registration.
Dec 11th, 2012 by Jon RichardsIn Defense of Same Day Registration
Mayor Barrett, government and community leaders, speak out against Governor Walker’s proposal to eliminate same day registration
Dec 4th, 2012 by Press ReleaseThe Anti-Health Care Governor?
Even as Scott Walker throws people off health care, he opposes federal programs that would increase coverage and lower costs.
Nov 21st, 2012 by Bruce MurphyRep. Richards calls on Gov. Walker to renounce arresting federal officials who are doing their jobs
Today Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee), the ranking member on the Assembly Committee on Health, released the following statement calling on Gov. Walker to oppose any legislation that would call for the arrest of federal officials who try to implement the Affordable Care Act in Wisconsin.
Nov 15th, 2012 by Jon RichardsMilwaukee Taxi Cab Medallion Bill Passes Assembly
The City of Milwaukee is working on state legislation to allow the City to profit from the sale of additional taxi cab permits (to be called medallions) and address the perceived shortage of taxi cabs in the city. Currently under Wisconsin law, permit and license fees can not exceed the cost to issue said permits. This gives the Common Council and Mayor little incentive to raise the cap on the number of permits (currently capped at the seemingly random number of 321 since 1992), despite the fact that the permits are changing hands in the private market for between $80,000 to $150,000.
Feb 22nd, 2012 by Jeramey JanneneDoyle’s Decision Could Send Ripples Through Milwaukee’s Political Landscape
Governor Doyle's announcement that he will not be seeking a third term could send ripples through Milwaukee's political landscape. The most commonly mentioned named Democratic Party members that may run for Governor include, U.S. Rep. Ron Kind, State Sen. Jon Erpenbach, Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, and Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk.
Aug 19th, 2009 by Dave ReidSouth Shore Listening Session Recap
Following the veto of Milwaukee County transit sales tax by Governor Doyle, Representative Christine Sinicki, Senate Jeff Plale, and Representative Jon Richards held a listening session at the South Shore Park Pavilion.
Jul 9th, 2009 by Jeramey JanneneWhose Scandal is it, Anyway?
Republicans try, fail to shift blame to Dems on Kenilworth project
Jul 26th, 2006 by Michael HorneState Elections Board Responds to Complaint Against Walker
John Weishan and Gerry Broderick filed an official complaint today with the Wisconsin State Elections Board against Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker.
May 9th, 2005 by Michael HorneVoting With The Mayor
Mayor Barrett’s office announced Monday that he would vote at City Hall at 1 p.m. Tuesday.
Oct 25th, 2004 by Michael HorneDem Challenge for Panzer Seat
The disarray of the Republican 20th Senate District has convinced the Democratic Party to field a write-in candidate for primary.
Aug 23rd, 2004 by Michael HorneABC and the Gay Governor
The catch, is that McGreevey announced he was gay, while the lover says he, himself, is straight.
Aug 16th, 2004 by Michael HornePlale Recall Drive Begins
Can a group of south side political activists pull themselves together enough to acquire 13,212 signatures to force a recall election against Sen. Jeff Plale? Rep. Jon Richards said he doubts it. “This thing is going nowhere,” says Rep. Josh Zepnick. “These people are so lazy! They’ve taken out a newspaper ad asking people to come by and sign a recall petition. Who is going to do that?” True enough. To win an election, you’ve got to knock on doors, post signs in windows and do all kinds of grass-rooted activities. There is scant evidence of this in the Plale recall attempt, and absolutely no evidence of it in the northern fringes of Plale’s district, including Brady Street and the East Side. That hasn’t stopped Plale from printing up thousands of football schedules that he is handing out at every turn. The South Milwaukeean made the journey to St. Rita’s Church last week to attend the Brady Street Association monthly meeting where he was asked about the recall. “They’ve got until September 7th to get the signatures to recall me,” Plale told the audience. When told there seemed to be no effort on the East Side to circulate petitions, Plale said, “well, these people wouldn’t know how to find Brady Street.” Plale was also in the Brady Street area for what the neighborhood hopes is an annual Artisinal Food Festival. The gig was held Sunday, July 25th, and Plale was there along with his schedules. The recall effort against him stemmed from his crucial vote to uphold Governor Doyle’s veto of a republican-sponsored measure to limit property tax increases. Plale says the upcoming plans to sponsor a constitutional amendment known as the Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, (TABOR) is similarly flawed, and a potential recipe for disaster. He cites Colorado, a state that has enacted similar provisions into its laws and is now in the midst of its worst fiscal crisis ever. Amendment on the Run The legislature republicans spent the last unedifying session promoting the agenda of Gays, Guns and Gambling. The Madison gang came up with loads of goofy legislation, none of which could sustain a veto by the governor. Leave it to this group to be able to reconvene and pass a constitutional amendment, no less, in just one week. This was the decision of Sen. Mary Panzer, the republican leader who had earlier been criticized for not rushing a Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights law through the Solomonic deliberations of the nation’s most august lawmakers. But, as soon as she faced a primary challenge from Rep.Glenn Grothman, an ambitious fellow republican who covets her senate seat, Panzer decided to schedule a vote for this week. Then, the legislature can go home and come back next year to vote again. Then, finally, the matter will be put to public vote in a referendum, if it is still alive. But, if the legislature does not act by August 5th, the whole procedure would have to be repeated in yet one […]
Jul 26th, 2004 by Michael HorneLautenschlager’s Fast Ones – Past Speeding Tickets Raise Residency Issues
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager exploits a legal loophole.
Mar 29th, 2004 by Michael HorneLautenschlager’s Mess
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s drunk driving arrest last week removes her from behind the wheel of her state-owned vehicle for a year, and puts Governor Jim Doyle in the driver’s seat. The two had squabbled, privately, over terms of the Governor’s jobs bill, with Lautenschlager threatening to use her authority to see that the law comply with the state’s environmental regulations, which she intimated it did not. This sort of independent action by an attorney general is not new in Wisconsin. Doyle was the chief practitioner of it, but then again, he was a Democrat, and the Governor at the time was a Republican. The press has made note that Doyle suggests Lautenschlager forgo some of her pay as a sort of penance for her indiscretion, a matter that remains unresolved at this time. Doyle also suggested that Lautenschlager consider entering a program to treat problem drinkers. He said that he had a number of friends who had been in a similar situation and that the treatment had helped them. In fact, the public admission of guilt and responsibility (which Lautenschlager made) is usually accompanied these days with a prompt acknowledgement that a problem exists. The subject then usually promptly enters a treatment program and completes it, after which the matter is forgotten. Lautenschlager has not made that admission thus far, which leaves her in the position of either not having a “problem” or being “in denial” of it. It does leave Doyle high and dry, however, and much less likely to face interference in his plans from that peskiest of all politicians – an ambitious Attorney General. Walker at the War Memorial County Executive Scott Walker welcomed about 100 well-clad guests to a fundraiser February 26th at the War Memorial Center. The strictly upper-crust affair was a Republican-type fundraiser, which meant that hard liquor was consumed (in moderation) and beer, for the most part, was ignored. For those fans of the frothy stuff, Walker offered Miller products and Heineken. Food was by Ellen’s Prestige Catering, and included strolling waiters, another classy touch. Menu items included spinach somethings, meat and melted cheese on sandwich rounds, wrapped up little salmon tidbits, an entirely unsuccessful raspberry-brie tart, platters of some kind of 21st century sandwich product along with perfectly delicious fruit. The event was unmarred by public oratory, but was enhanced by an A-list of locals practicing up for the next time Bush is in town. Among the exalted: George Dalton, Dennis Kuester (on crutches), Michael Cudahy, mourning the recent death of Daniel Urban Kiley, creator of the $4 million Cudahy garden outside the adjacent Milwaukee Art Museum, Fred Luber, Tim Hoeksma, Carol Skornicka, John Finerty, Jim Weichmann, Joe Rice, Mary Buestrin, Corey Hoze and developer Mark Irgens. Hoze has secured speaker Dennis Hastert to appear at a $2000 fundraiser on his hopeless behalf in his upcoming congressional campaign. That’s rich. Marvin Pratt popped in and worked the crowd for about 20 minutes before his cop told him it was time to […]
Mar 1st, 2004 by Michael HorneNo Challenge to Hill Papers
But Halbrooks says Election Commission’s Extended Hours Helped Opponent
Jan 19th, 2004 by Michael HorneKrug Scores Joint Finance Seat
Rep. Shirley Krug was chosen Monday to take a seat on the influential Joint Committee on Finance
Dec 4th, 2003 by Michael HorneAmeritech Catches Political Fire From Competitors
Open up this month's Ameritech bill and you may find a surprise.
Sep 28th, 2001 by Bruce MurphyScott Jensen’s Big Shakedown
Rep. Jon Richards was feeling a little lonely.
Sep 25th, 2001 by Bruce Murphy