Tim Carpenter

Sen. Hesselbein Announces Senate Democrats’ Committee Assignments

Wisconsin Senate Democrats Plan To Work Across The Aisle

With major gains in the number of seats, Democrats see opportunity.

Legislative Committee Considers Artificial Intelligence Regulations

The pitfalls and potential of AI; possible legislative guard rails and state investments.

MPS Failures Result In GOP-Called Audit of DPI

GOP-controlled committee moves to audit DPI practices, DNR fish and wildlife account.

Sen. Tim Carpenter Named Conservation Champion

Senate GOP Hides from Debate on Final Day of Session

Wisconsin Senate Votes to Override Governor’s Vetoes

Effort unlikely to pass Assembly.

Thank you for your service, Representative Riemer!

US Postal Service Approves Hank Aaron Stamp

Senate Fires 8 Evers Appointees, Approves 3 Constitutional Amendments

Senate ends session for year with governor 'apoplectic' over 'petty partisan politics.'

Republican Senator Joins Democrats Against Transgender Sports Bill

Sen. Joan Ballweg cites higher rate of depression, suicide for transgender youth.

Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa Announces Slate of Endorsements for Re-election Campaign

County Treasurer Dave Cullen Announces Reelection Bid

With many endorsements, Cullen faces Ted Chisholm in Democratic primary.

Wisconsin Democrats Propose State Protections For Same-Sex Marriages

Proposal follows 2022 federal law, overturning of Roe vs. Wade. Would strike 2006 constitutional amendment.

LeMahieu Grows Into Majority Leader Role

Republican Senate leader has worked at times with Democrats to get legislation passed.

Brewers Stadium Deal Passes the Legislature

Gov. Tony Evers promises to sign it.

9 Obstacles To a Brewers Deal

No audit. Voter anger. Politicians renegotiating deal. The list goes on.

Taxpayers Paying For Both Sides of Senate Lawsuit Over Redistricting

Democrats and Republicans both charging State of Wisconsin for redistricting legal fight.

Sen. Carpenter Says Milwaukee and Wisconsin Deserve a Better Deal

Sen. Larson, Rep. Hong Introduce the Nurse Staffing and Patient Protection Act

Lawmakers Introduce Bills to Expand Vaccine Access

The bills, aimed at addressing state's decreasing vaccine rates, are unlikely to advance in the Republican-led Legislature.

Houses of Worship Could Become Exempt From Emergency Orders

Authors of the proposed constitutional amendment argue that it's a matter of separating church and state.

Condemning the Attack in Cathedral Square Park

Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson and Supervisor Peter Burgelis Celebrate LGBTQ+ Community with Citations of Recognition

Rep. Donovan’s Reckless Driving Bills Approved By Legislature

And: Republicans block rule that bans conversion therapy, allowing controversial practice to continue.

Sara Geenen Campaign Announces More Than 50 Endorsements From Judges & Elected Officials

County Board Primary Race Has Three Candidates

Special election called to fill District 14 seat left vacant by Dyango Zerpa resignation.

Evers Budget Funds 80 More Staff to Process Occupational Licenses

Department of Safety and Professional Services has faced criticism for service delays.

GOP Legislators Vote For Audit of State’s Licensing Agency

They cite backlog in approving licenses. Democrats blame inadequate funding and staff.

After 4 Years, 180 Appointees by Gov. Evers Haven’t Been Confirmed

Republican Senate leaves them in limbo. 'Tell me what I need to do,' Ever says.

Milwaukee Candidates for Wisconsin State Senate

And congressional race for fourth district seat.

Is Nonpartisan State Audit Bureau Getting Political?

Report on PSC the second one where critics say agency bent findings to please Republican leaders.

Democrats Want Audit of Gableman’s 2020 Election Review

Request comes after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos called Gableman "an embarrassment."

GOP refuses to hold Gableman accountable to the taxpayers

The Gableman Report was a Waste of Time and Money

Senate Passes a Dozen Voting Bills

Republicans say bills address election ‘irregularities.’ Democrats charge ‘voter suppression.'

Why Brewers Stadium Conflict Erupted

Legislature has squeezed the five-county ballpark district, leaving it less flexibility.

State Still Has $1.8 Billion In Pandemic Funds

Evers update shows 60% of $4.6 billion federal relief funding has been spent or allocated.

Republicans Rubberstamp Expanded Powers for Gableman

GOP Bills Ban Customer Vaccine Requirements

State legislature considering bills that prohibit businesses requiring vaccination.

Sen. Carpenter Requests Legislative Audit of Michael Gableman’s Commission

Vos Gets Golden Fleece Award – Wastes $676,000 taxpayer dollars

Silicon Valley Company Expanding In Milwaukee

OpenGov plans to grow office in Walker's Point to 100 employees.

Software firm growing Milwaukee office with WEDC help

OpenGov plans to add 65 employees, invest $400,000

Jessica Katzenmeyer Racks Up More Endorsements From Across Wisconsin

Mandela Barnes Earns Over 100 Endorsements from Wisconsin Elected Officials in Race for U.S. Senate

Barnes Has Built an Unparalleled Statewide Coalition to Defeat Ron Johnson

Still No Facility To Replace State’s Youth Prisons

Two deadlines to close the prisons have been missed, and plans for new facility have stalled.

Democrats Lose Experience In Legislature

10 years of Republican control helps creates Legislature with less experienced Democrats.

Republicans have turned the Natural Resources Board into a political swamp

Sen. Carpenter Blasts DNR Over Wolf Hunt Plans

The Department of Natural Resources is planning a fall 2021 wolf harvest.

West Allis Alderman Angelito Tenorio Announces Candidacy for Wisconsin State Treasurer

State Senate Debates Anti-Defund Police Bill

Bill cuts state aid to cities at same level as any reductions in law enforcement spending.

Republicans Reject Final Opportunity to Provide a Tax Break for Unemployment Recipients

Unemployment Tax Break Bill Muddied by Partisan Conflict

GOP amendment would take control of COVID-19 relief funds away from governor.

Bills Cap Predatory Lending at 36%

Average payday interest rate is 517%. Industry has given generously to legislators

The Beguiling Blandness of Devin LeMahieu

Senate majority leader is conservative but eschews the nasty style of Robin Vos.

Public Hearing Scheduled for Unemployment Compensation Tax Break

Proposal would exempt the first $10,200 in UC benefits from taxation

Which Members of Congress Got Vaccine?

One third are Republicans, survey of 22 states find. But Wisconsin divided by party.

Carpenter, McGuire Introduce Bill to Ease Tax Burden on UI Benefits

Proposal would exempt the first $10,200 in benefits from taxation

Legislation introduced to ban conversion therapy statewide

Joint statement of Common Council President Cavalier Johnson and Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa

Sen. Carpenter and others Reintroduce Legislation to Ban Conversion Therapy in Wisconsin

State Senate Beset by Culture Wars

Rush Limbaugh vs. Black history, LGBT protectors vs GOP objectors, the arguments get ugly.

Senate Passes Bill To Prevent Rape Kit Backlog

Bipartisan bill passed one year ago, but Assembly resisted.

34 State Legislators Endorse Jill Underly for State Superintendent

Honoring Limbaugh But Not Black History

Republican legislators back resolution to honor Rush, resist celebrating Black History Month.

Where Are Act 10 Players Today?

Governor and three-fourths of legislators engaged in 2011 battle over law crushing public unions have moved on.

Republicans continue to leave those on Unemployment out in the cold:

Even as some of them voted to give their own businesses a tax break

Madison Protester Gets Probation on Extortion Charges

Devonere Johnson's arrest sparked further protest in June.

Legislators Argue Over Masks, Capitol Access

And much more. Senate allows virtual attendance but Vos requires in-person Assembly.

Both Parties Back Election Law Changes

Legislators actually agree on at least two reforms.

Unemployment System Audited After Pandemic Failures

Massive delays in claims, duplicate payments and an unreliable call center among issues found in report.

Aggressive Police Escalate Violence at Protests?

Research shows this, experts say. Former Madison police chief calls on cops to ditch riot gear and tear gas.

Will Unemployment Backlog Be Cleared By End Of Year?

70,000 people in Wisconsin are still waiting for their unemployment to come through.

Transgender Day of Remembrance, 2020

Elected Officials Across the State Join Call for Peaceful and Fair Vote Count

Republicans Refuse to Work Across the Aisle

Sen. Carpenter: Prescription Drug Task Force Recommendations a Great Step Forward for Wisconsin

Carpenter Statement on Legislative Republicans’ Decision to Boycott Legislative Session

“It’s called doing your job!”

-Senator Nass

Republican Health Committees: Missing in Action

Say it ain’t so, Joe!

Matthew Shepard’s Story Continues to Haunt and Inspire Us after 22 Years

Many Believe Fitzgerald Should Resign for Lack of COVID Response

Public Hearing is Necessary before Striking down COVID Strategy

It is Time for Scott Fitzgerald to Resign

Republican Senators Convene to Pass the Buck

The Legislature’s Lack of Action is Shameful

Statement on the Shooting of Jacob Blake, the Damage to Kenosha, and the Special Session

Christian Saldivar applauds Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley’s leadership on CARES Funding to help those in need during COVID-19 pandemic

Ten Years After Act 10

Most of those who voted for it are gone. How has the Capitol changed?

Zamarripa Defends Her Double Dipping

Alderwoman will collect second full-time salary as state legislator for eight months.

Who Benefits From the Madison Vandalism?

History suggests it could change the narrative, change voters’ views.

I Sincerely Appreciate Your Kind Words of Support!

Madison Protester Faces Heavy Charges

Two federal counts of extortion, up to 40 years in prison.

Trump Smears State Sen. Tim Carpenter

President’s attack on a legislator who was assaulted is truly despicable.

Protests throughout Wisconsin must remain peaceful

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council - Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker

What Happened at Madison’s Protests

State Sen. Tim Carpenter assaulted, two Capitol statues toppled, windows broken, Evers condemns violence.

Register of Deeds Israel Ramón Announces Early List of Endorsements

Elected officials from across Milwaukee County, state, support Ramón

Gov. Evers Statement on Madison Protests Last Night

Sen. Carpenter Assaulted Near Capitol

SCOTUS Ruling Ends the Current Fight over DACA

But does not guarantee the Dreamers’ safety

Racism and Hate Have No Home Here!

5-County Tax Freedom Day

Contribution to Peter Burgelis of $50

Catholic School Tax Change Would Cost City

Archdiocese seeks legislation whereby schools leased for profit would still be tax exempt.

Rep. Robyn Vining Introduces “Epi Access” Legislation

Ed Fallone Gains More Endorsers as Election Nears

Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet to Host Fourth Annual “3 Days of Christmas” Holiday Initiative

Local restaurateurs kick off three-day holiday initiative with support from local businesses and legislators

Contribution to Peter Burgelis of $50

Wisconsin Republicans Forget the Reason for the Season

"I believe it’s hypocritical to pretend to care about Christmas by requiring the word be used, but then failing the spirit of the holiday and behaving like Grinches and Scrooges towards the homeless in Wisconsin."

Wisconsin Can Lead the Way on Affordable Medications

We Have Blazed this Trail Before with SeniorCare and High-Risk Insurance

Two Years after the Foxconn Contract Was Signed

and Voters Still Have a Sour Taste in Their Mouths

Republican Senators, Do Your Job!

"The overwhelming support for these two gun safety ideas demands the Wisconsin Legislature convene, debate, and vote on passage of these bills."

Senate Votes to Kill Governor Veto Power

Approves putting constitutional amendment on ballot to restrict partial veto power.

Hate Has No Home Here!

"I am sickened by the idea that this happened in the neighborhood where I grew up, in a city that is so proud of its immigrant heritage."

Senator Carpenter is Appointed to Governor Evers’ Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices

"Prices for treatments have risen to unsustainable levels in Wisconsin and across the country."

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices

The first meeting of the Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices is scheduled for November 20.

State Resists Immunizations

Wisconsin ranks 35th in percent of immunized children, yet bipartisan bill to address problem is stalled in committee.

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.”

Where’s Robin?

"Today at the Senate Committee on Transportation, Veterans and Military Affairs public hearing, Speaker Robin Vos didn’t even bother to testify on his own bill..."

Speaker Robin Vos’ Moral Failure

"Speaker Vos’ disregard for a colleague is frankly embarrassing."

Five Takeaways from Yesterday’s Election

The race for Terry Witkowski's seat had surprises -- and key lessons.

Honoring the Memory of Jeffrey Wischer, William DeGrave, and Jerome Starr

"As you are out and about this weekend, I hope that you will take a moment to reflect on this tragedy and the loss of life that sadly took place during the construction of our iconic Miller Park."

The Battle to Sunset the Miller Park Tax is Finally Over

"I am happy to see this is finally happening."

Sen. Carpenter: “Thank you Governor Evers”

Governor Issues Executive Order to Fly Rainbow Flag Over State Capitol

Rep. Mark Spreitzer and LGBT Caucus Introduce Bipartisan Equality Agenda

"As an out gay man, I am proud to stand by my fellow LGBT legislators today to present the Equality Agenda in honor of Pride Month."

Six State Legislative Democrats endorse Chris Abele for re-election

Abele earns support from more legislative Democrats than during his successful 2016 campaign

Oh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags

Council debates what to do with bags that clog up recycling process.

Electric Scooters Could Return This Year

Bill working its way through state Legislature to legalize electric scooters.

Bill Ends Waivers for Immunizations

In response to measles outbreak, bipartisan proposal ends waivers for “personal convictions”.

Lottery Windfall Money Should Be Dedicated for Local Road Aids

‘This is a once in a lifetime opportunity’

Excess from the Miller Park Tax Should Be Returned to the 5 Counties

"The District has stated that barring any significant shift in economic conditions, they will be ready to officially sunset the tax at their March 2020 meeting."

State Legislators endorse JoCasta Zamarripa in race to be next 8th District Alderwoman

"I’m humbled so many of my current colleagues have my back on this journey to serve Milwaukee on the Common Council."

Did Business Leaders Fail on Foxconn?

None raised any doubts about a deal that always seemed suspect.

It’s Groundhog Day in the GOP Legislature

Majority Party Continues to Try and Deflect Blame

City-wide School Board Candidate Bob Peterson announces endorsement from 23 elected officials

The full list of elected officials to have endorsed Bob Peterson for MPS school board represents a broad span of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Signs Executive Order Protecting LGBTQ State Employees

Wisconsin is one of 28 states without explicit non-discrimination protections on the basis of gender identity.

Sen. Carpenter Attends “The People’s Budget Listening Session”

Governor-Elect Evers and Lt. Governor-Elect Barnes Host Session

Carpenter: Require ‘Lame Duck” Bills to Supermajority Votes

“The tactics of these Republicans are an embarrassment to Wisconsin’s good government reputation and a black eye to our democracy.”

Governor Walker: What Will Your Message To Gov.-Elect Evers Be?

I call on you to veto any and all bills passed during our lame-duck session that will limit the powers of our newly elected Governor and Attorney General.

5-County Fridays with the Milwaukee Brewers

"September 7th and 28th are the last days to take advantage of the 5-County Fridays deal."

Walker Reconsiders Fiserv Subsidy?

Reacting to furor over Fiserv buying Bucks arena naming rights, governor to look “closely” at this.

Jerry Kramer— Finally a Hall of Famer

"I can’t think of anyone more deserving!"

You Can’t Miss the 167th Wisconsin State Fair!

"There’s something for everyone, which is what makes it one of my favorite traditions!"

In the DNC Selection Process, Milwaukee is the Crème de la Crème

"Milwaukee, Wisconsin would be the perfect location to host the upcoming Democratic National Convention in 2020!"

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $50

Sen. Carpenter: ‘Frostman Deserves Appointment to WEDC Board’

"Given his background and expertise, Senator Frostman is a perfect appointment to the WEDC Board."

No Choice in 36% of Legislative Races

Gerrymandering and decline in number of candidates leaves 2.5 million residents with no choice.

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $100

Mayor Tom Barrett Applauds Passage of Bill Prohibiting Straw Purchasing

Senate Bill 408 criminalizes gun purchases on behalf of felons and acting as ‘human holster’

New Federal Program Could Help City

Opportunity Zones law allows tax incentives for distressed areas.

Connecting Workers with Career Opportunities

RTA Builds Transportation Options in Southeastern Wisconsin

Packer Jerry Kramer Belongs in Pro Football Hall of Fame!

"I know of no player more deserving of recognition than Jerry Kramer and this is the year he should be inducted into the Hall."

GOP Legislative Districts Heavily White

Republican assembly districts are up to 96% white, senate districts as high as 95% white.

Sen. Carpenter Thanks DHS Secretary for SeniorCare Attempts, Looks Forward to 2018

"I look forward to finding even more common ground upon which to do the people’s business."

Jury Duty is a Civic Responsibility

"Today Monday, November 20th, I will once again answer the call and report for jury duty."

Top Ten Reasons Wisconsin Got Conned

In an ode to the famous David Letterman, the reasons are presented 10 to 1

WEDC Shifts on Foxconn Contract

After saying board members could now see contract, they will allow vote only on staff review of it.

With Elections Just a Year Away, Legislature Abandons Wisconsin Families

Industrial Acid Mining Bill Will Put Public Health at Risk for Generations

WEDC — Seeing Contract Today, A Good First Step, Taxpayer Protection Still Top Priority

"I am looking forward to reviewing all of the vast materials released by WEDC today in preparation for this vote on Wednesday."

Vukmir, Rohrkaste lead bipartisan effort to lower drug prices

Bill would allow for pharmacists to switch brand-name biologics for biosimilars

WEDC — Ripe For Reform

"It is time for WEDC to step into the light and be held accountable for the vast amounts of taxpayer dollars they are doling out."

Senator Carpenter Introduces Bill to End Miller Park Tax

"Ending the Miller Park tax is one thing in which I think we can all agree."

The Secrets of Foxconn

Walker administration won’t release details of massive subsidy until after contract is signed.

Matt Flynn Makes Statement on the Corrupt Handling of the Foxconn Contract by Walker’s WEDC

Flynn says he’s not surprised there are major problems with the handling of the contract, given WEDC’s history of mismanagement and corruption

Judge Rebecca Dallet clear choice of Milwaukee County leaders

“I am honored and humbled to have earned the support of these officials, who work every day to make our communities stronger.”

Wrong Way Walker

"Wisconsin drivers don't deserve third world road conditions because of Governor Walker's political games."

Carpenter Asks Governor to Veto Transportation Pork

The letter referenced funding for projects such as the airport improvement plans for Appleton International Airport and Alexander Field in Wisconsin Rapids.

Mr. Gou – Your Turn

An open letter to the chairman of Foxconn.

SeniorCare anniversary a reminder of program’s success

Dems urge legislative action to protect and extend popular Rx drug program

Senator Carpenter Statement on Possible Zoo Interchange Delays

“Let’s get the Zoo Interchange project done now!”

The Senate Must be The Grownups in the Room… Again.

"Again, I am respectfully requesting Senator Fitzgerald to act responsibly and slow down this process."

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $50

It is Time for Fair Maps

"I believe it is high time for Wisconsin Republicans to do the right thing and allow for non-partisan redistricting in Wisconsin."

DOT Crisis Needs Immediate Attention

"It seems to me that the Governor is trying to obfuscate the dire situation at the DOT and hide from Wisconsin taxpayers his mismanagement."

Protect Seniors by extending SeniorCare

Democrats launch effort to save successful Rx drug program

Sen. Carpenter Asks Governor Walker to Work to Protect SeniorCare

Senator Carpenter noted that SeniorCare serves around 60,000 seniors and saves tens of millions of dollars for Wisconsin’s seniors and taxpayers.

“To Not Only Survive, But Thrive!”

The mass shooting in Orlando was a tragic reminder of the need for LGBT equality.

Governor Scott Walker Signs Three Bills Into Law

All three bills focus on building dementia-friendly communities throughout Wisconsin.

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $100

Contribution to Justin Bielinski of $50

Governor Scott Walker Signs 58 Bills Into Law

Acts 200 - 257.

Can Larson Beat Abele?

Democratic insiders handicap the race, which may come down to turnout.

Chris Larson Submits Maximum Amount of Signatures for Milwaukee County Executive Race

“Our grassroots movement is taking on incredible momentum.”

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $62

Gwen 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.

Contribution to Terry Witkowski of $200

Contribution to Tom Barrett of $50

Mark Borkowski wins special aldermanic election

Mark Borkowski’s Quaint Ranch Home

County supervisor lives in suburban-style area at edge of Greenfield but wants to be alderman.

Cost for Taxpayers In Latest Bucks Deal?

Bucks gave ground. But it’s still a huge bite for taxpayers.

Scott Walker Push For Milwaukee Bucks Arena Subsidy Could Benefit His Fundraising Chief

Sen. Darling: Arena deal may go to separate vote

A Weekend of Gay Pride

Pridefest gets all the attention, but the Pride Parade is a true slice of Milwaukee that draws a very diverse crowd.

Race for Dudzik’s Seat Could Get Heated

Will anti-streetcar group get involved? And did Journal Sentinel exaggerate the number of candidates?

Contribution to Josh Zepnick of $50

Fendt Fired by Southside Organizing Committee

Had led group 22 years, board members vague on reasons for dumping him.

Community and Elected Leaders Oppose WISDOT’s ‘Billion Dollar Boondoggle’ At Hearing on I-94 East-West Corridor

WISDOT’s Preferred Options Are Poorly Outlined, Costly, Wasteful, and Require Higher Taxes, Fees

Why Wisconsin Has Weak Laws on Drunken Driving

Legislators reject tougher penalties, even for repeat offenders. First of a series.

Burke Supports Drivers Licenses for Undocumented Residents

Measure rejected by legislature would have particular benefit for Hispanics in Milwaukee.

Sen.Carpenter’s Rather Dull Duplex

His sided, south side home, in suburban-like Jackson Park, is a veritable pillar of middle-class respectability.

Few Competitive Legislative Races

Redistricting has reduced the number of competitive districts for fall elections.

County Executive Abele Thanks Governor Walker for Signing Bill to Improve Mental Health Care

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele thanks Governor Scott Walker for signing a bill today that will create an independent board of experts to oversee Milwaukee County’s Behavioral Health Hospital.

Jonathan Brostoff Gives Support for Marriage Equality Amendment

The amendment would repeal a previous constitution amendment made in 2006 that banned gay marriage in Wisconsin.

ACLU Supports Bill to Repeal Ban on Marriage for Same-Sex Couples

The American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin commends two state lawmakers for introducing a bill today to repeal Wisconsin’s ban on marriage for same-sex couples.

Barrett’s Birthday Party

The mayor's celebration is 11 days late. And Lakefront Brewery shatters its record for annual barrels manufactured.

Spencer Coggs’ Very New Northwest Side Home

Ironically, the City Treasurer lives next to three lots that are delinquent in paying him their property taxes.

5 Candidates Running for Jeff Stone’s Assembly Seat

Four Republicans and one Democrat seek to win this heavily Republican suburban district.

Governor Ignores South Side on Residency Requirement

Walker signs law, never responds to letters from South Side politicians and organizations.

How Scott Walker Got Snookered

Excerpt from new book describes how Walker was fooled by a phone call from a blogger posing as conservative billionaire David Koch.

Freeway Expansion Could Move South

I-94 could be straightened to run through current Miller Park parking lots. Brewers are open to this option.

Double-Decker Freeway For Milwaukee?

Rising 40 feet high, it could be destructive to the Story Hill neighborhood.

Doyle, Gard in University Club Sandwich

Rivals Host Simultaneous Fundraisers in Swanky Downtown Club

Buffett Tour on Hold

“Spirit – The Seventh Fire” has been put on hiatus.

Burke Gets Break

The Supreme Court granted a stay Friday, and Burke’s trial is postponed.

Drink for Free

One of the joys of electoral politics is that the polls eventually close on election day and then it is up to us to flock to the parties.

ABC and the Gay Governor

The catch, is that McGreevey announced he was gay, while the lover says he, himself, is straight.

Plale 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 […]

Shepherd Figure to Run Madison Paper

Capital Papers Puts up the Capital

Morales V Darling Race Set

Milwaukee School Board member Jennifer Morales has decided to challenge Alberta Darling and her hold on the 8th Senate District Seat.

The Governor and the Empire Builder

“Groundbreaking” for Bridge

Carpenter to Run For Congress

Rep. Jerry Kleczka is the son of a machinist. A Carpenter wants to replace him.

Who’s on Fifth?

An $89 billion bank is muscling its way into the Milwaukee market, and you read about it here first.

Is the Plankinton Exit Worth $60 Million?

Some months ago the state Department of Transportation announced a plan for rebuilding the mammoth Marquette Interchange that did not include any exits or entrances at Plankinton Avenue