Republicans Vote to Open the Floodgates to Unlimited Money in Politics
Assembly Democrats Recuse Themselves from the Vote
MADISON – This evening, the Wisconsin State Assembly passed legislation that will open the floodgates for corporations and wealthy special interests to spend without limits in our elections. In response, Rep. Katrina Shankland (D-Stevens Point) released the following statement:
“Under the Republican campaign finance bill, Wisconsin is open for corruption. Corporations and out-of-state billionaires will be able to give unlimited amounts of money to influence elections in Wisconsin. While the people of Wisconsin overwhelmingly support campaign finance reform and getting money out of politics, this bill only amplifies the volume of spending on elections. This is the end of an era of clean government and a democracy with integrity.
“The people of Wisconsin deserve a government of, by, and for the people, not wealthy special interests. But this bill drowns out the voices of ordinary people and preserves only the free speech of billionaires. Our middle class is diminishing, and we hear every day from people who work hard and struggle to make ends meet. Middle class families do not have thousands or millions of dollars to give to politicians, and they are the ones being silenced as more out-of-state money flows into Wisconsin.
“This bill will only benefit politicians, not the people of Wisconsin. Since this legislation could directly impact politicians’ campaign committees, including mine, I believe I have a substantial financial interest in this matter, and must recuse myself from voting on this bill.”
Recent Press Releases by State Rep. Katrina Shankland
Rep. Shankland Introduces “Clean Water Fund for Our Future”
Jan 20th, 2020 by State Rep. Katrina ShanklandUnder the bill, the legislature would transfer $10 million in General Purpose Revenue biennially to the clean water fund
Rep. Shankland Coauthors Legislation to Legalize Medical Cannabis in Wisconsin for Fourth Consecutive Session
Sep 20th, 2019 by State Rep. Katrina Shankland"This commonsense bill will make a real difference in the lives of people who are suffering, and if passed, will improve their quality of life significantly."
Tapped Infused Maple Syrup Nominated For “Coolest Thing Made In Wisconsin”
Sep 3rd, 2019 by State Rep. Katrina Shankland“I am excited to nominate this phenomenal company for the title of ‘Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin.’”
