» January, 2010
» December, 2009
New Report Shows Bush-Era Policies Created Economic Deficit
Posted by: Sam on 12/16/2009
A new report out today from the
non-partisan Center on Budget and Policy Priorities shows that
President
Obama and the 111th Congress inherited
huge deficits, economic
downturn, and the Bush-era's irresponsible policies that led our nation
into a recession.
The
report also concluded that President
Obama's first budget proposed a series of responsible steps that will
lower our deficit in the coming years, moving the country in the
right direction, and creating economic stability. Enacting President
Obama's proposals would reduce deficits by around $750 billion over the
next ten years.
Among the Bush-era damage to the economy, two policies make up a large
portion of the current deficit. The
Bush administration's tax cuts and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan
accounted for over $500 billion of the deficit in 2009 and are on track
to account for over $7.1 trillion from 2009 - 2019. The Center
on Budget and Policy Priorities found that, "these impacts easily dwarf
the stimulus and financial rescues. Furthermore, unlike those temporary
costs, these inherited policies (especially the tax cuts) do not fade
away as the economy recovers."
Read the full report here.
President Obama's Weekly Address: Economy Growing for the First Time in a Year
Posted by: Sam on 12/6/2009
» November, 2009
» October, 2009
Walker's Push for Privatization Rejected By County Committee
Posted by: Sam on 10/21/2009
Scott Walker has been no stranger to favoring privatization of Milwaukee County workers, but County Board's finance committee isn't having any more of it.
Tuesday they rejected a proposal in Walker's budget that would privatize security and housekeeping staff at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Altogether, Walker's 2010 budget calls for 207 county jobs to be eliminated in favor of private contractors.
Clients for public aid programs at the Coggs Center have reported feeling unsafe there, said Supervisor Michael Mayo Sr. Supervisor Toni Clark said using a private firm for cleaning the courthouse could lead to thefts from offices.
"Having our personal belongings ransacked - it's just not worth it," Clark said.
Patti Yunk, policy director for District Council 48 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, said the proposed privatization was contrary to Walker's efforts to boost economic development. The county workers would earn less and have poorer benefits if they went to work for a private vendor, Yunk said.
Roll Call: GOP launches new strategy to delay health reform
Posted by: Sam on 10/20/2009
While Democrats continue to advance meaningful health insurance reform legislation in Congress, the GOP has launched a new strategy to delay it. Roll Call outlines the new GOP strategy and their plans to "insist" that the issue requires several more weeks of debate, showing once again that politics comes before the well being of American citizens for the GOP.
Republicans also intend to try to personalize the issue, charging that the Democratic health care agenda will raise insurance premiums on individuals and families, while failing to lower the overall amount of money that the U.S. spends on health care.
The GOP made those arguments last week about the Finance package, even though the nonpartisan CBO predicted the bill would reduce the deficit, even as it extends coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. However, the bill is deficit-neutral in part because it raises revenue from taxes and fees on the medical industry and gold-plated health care insurance plans."
Stimulus Dollars at Work in Wisconsin
Posted by: Sam on 10/13/2009
From the Rhinelander Daily News:
Obey reiterated a message he has conveyed before, that the Northwoods has benefitted greatly.
“Very few communities have received more significant help under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) than has Rhinelander,” he said.
Obey was in town to see first-hand how the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest plans to use the $5 million received in federal recovery funds for efforts that will provide employment for local people and refurbish forest facilities. The funding for these efforts came through legislation produced by the House Appropriations Committee, which Obey chairs.
Politics Daily: Health Reform Will Cut Deficit
Posted by: Sam on 10/8/2009
From PolitcsDaily.com:
Doug Elmendorf, the CBO director, estimated the bill will cost $829 billion over 10 years and will expand insurance coverage to 94 percent of Americans. Most important for fiscal conservatives on the committee, the measure is expected to reduce the overall federal budget deficit by $81 billion over the decade because reforms will cut the cost of health care overall.
Republican Congressional Leadership
Posted by: Sam on 10/7/2009
By: John Fox
Invitation From Chair Mike Tate to the 11th Annual Eleanor Roosevelt Tribute
Posted by: sam on 10/7/2009
DPW Chair Mike Tate invites you to join Democrats from across the state at this years 11th Annual Eleanor Roosevelt tribute. Click here for more details.
MJS: Workers shoulder savings burden in Walker's country budget
Posted by: sam on 10/2/2009
From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: "Milwaukee County employees would take the equivalent of a 13% to 16% pay cut through concessions included in Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker's 2010 budget, an analysis released Thursday says. When added together, the givebacks would translate into a maximum $8,400 hit for an average employee with a salary of about $51,000, according to the analysis by County Board staff. In budget terms, the employee givebacks would cut county costs by $41.6 million, with $32 million of that from property taxes and the rest from other sources. Walker has said the cuts are necessary because of the recession and high pension and other benefit costs."
» September, 2009
Scott Walker's Credit Card Budget
Posted by: Sam on 9/24/2009
As
Scott Walker releases his budget for Milwaukee County this morning, one
thing is clear. Walker is putting
Milwaukee County's future on a credit card.
Over
the past 7 years, he’s raised the tax
levy in his budgets by $31 million dollars to enable his
excessive spending – apparently it’s easier to raise taxes on regular
citizens than it is to make the tough decisions we expect executives to
make.
Now,
he’s front-loading his budget to cram
three years of spending into one year – the year he runs for
Governor.
How
will he pay for it?
He won’t. Milwaukee County will.
VIDEO: Fear-mongering signs from Milwaukee teabaggers
Posted by: Sam on 9/22/2009
Adding to the extremist rhetoric and fear mongering from last weekend's anti-tax, anti-worker protest in Milwaukee, comes this video which shows just how extreme a corporate-backed protest can get. Signs comparing President Obama to Hitler and false claims of socialism are among the many signs proving this was anything but the peaceful protest its organizers claim.
Video from Left on the Lake, read the full blog post.
Walker Too Extreme for Wisconsin Families
Posted by: Sam on 9/21/2009
Over the weekend Scott Walker attended the extreme
right-wing protest in Milwaukee sponsored by corporate-backed Americans
for Prosperity. Walker joined tax cheat Joe "The Plumber" Wurzelbacher
and anti-worker pundit Michelle Malkin.
While organizers claimed it was a peaceful gathering, one man was sent to the hospital with injuries while others used scare tactics, name-calling, and false claims of socialism to get their point across.
DPW Chair Mike Tate said Walker's associate with right-wing extremists shows that he is too extreme to represent Wisconsin families.
“Wisconsin has a history of open and honest debate,” said Tate. “The fact that Scott Walker would endorse this behavior should be a clear sign to voters across Wisconsin that Walker is too extreme to represent them.”
La Crosse Tribune Letter: Thank you Dan Kapanke for costing taxpayers $38,000
Posted by: Sam on 9/17/2009
La Crosse Tribune Letter to the Editor by Patrick Moldenhauer "I would like to make this very simple and plain. Thank you, state Sen. Dan Kapanke, for costing the taxpayers of this state $38,000. Is this the man we want to send to the U.S. House of Representatives? The money should come from Kapanke's pockets, not from the hardworking men and women of Wisconsin. Dan Kapanke committed the error. The next time I get in trouble, I will expect the citizens of Wisconsin to bail me out also. How much will Kapanke cost Wisconsin in the House? I intend to vote for Ron Kind. Kapanke owns the La Crosse Loggers, so, if he can afford a baseball team, he should be able to scrounge up a measly $38,000. Thanks again, Dan, from the taxpayers of Wisconsin. What a waste of money!"
Health Care for America Now ad show how insurance companies get rich
Posted by: sam on 9/16/2009
HCAN ad: "How to get rich"
Kapanke breaks the law and costs taxpayers $38,000
Posted by: Sam on 9/11/2009
From the Associated
Press:
Sen. Dan Kapanke, R-La Crosse, is taking responsibility for his office's shortcomings in responding to the party's request.
``I intend to take steps to prevent any similar occurrences in the future,'' Kapanke said in a statement released with the settlement.
The Democratic Party sued Kapanke after his office said it had no records relating to two economic forums that were paid for by his campaign. A later search by information technology specialists turned up records from a personal e-mail account that Kapanke's aides had overlooked and failed to release.
Read more...
Full Video of President Obama's Speech to Congress
Posted by: Sam on 9/10/2009
DNC TV Ad: "Republicans Want to End Medicare"
Posted by: Sam on 9/8/2009
The DNC today
released a new TV Ad to highlight the Republican opposition to Medicare
and the well being of senior citizens across the country. The ad also
highlights Wisconsin's own Paul Ryan and his own attempts to shut down
Medicare.
President Obama to Address School Children [UPDATED]
Posted by: Sam on 9/8/2009
President Obama will address that nation's students beginning at 11:00 AM. In his remarks the President will focus on the personal responsibility that students have for their own education, encouraging them to set goals for themselves and their future. The White House Live stream below will carry the speech live.
UPDATE: Video from the President's
speech is below:
See also: Transcript of President Obama's Speech
Support for Health Insurance Reform in La Crosse
Posted by: Sam on 9/4/2009
Health insurance reform advocates gathered in La Crosse yesterday to show that changes are needed now. The crowd of over 200 gathered to hear from speakers and elected officials from the La Crosse area about the need to stand with President Obama and our Democratic leaders to pass meaningful health insurance reform.
From the La Crosse Tribune:
Former La Crosse Mayor John Medinger, now with U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl's local staff, said the time for reform is now.
"The fact of the matter is we can't afford the status quo," Medinger said.
Dr. Amanda Strosahl, an internal medicine physician in La Crosse, told the crowd President Barack Obama needed their help to change the system.
"We spend more on health care than any other industrialized nation," Strosahl said, "yet we're ranked behind 18 other nations in medically preventable deaths."
DNC TV Ad: Wrong Then, Wrong Now
Posted by: sam on 9/3/2009
Dick Cheney: Wrong Then, Wrong Now:
More Green Jobs Come to Wisconsin
Posted by: Sam on 9/2/2009
Governor Doyle was on hand today for the opening of Cardinal Solar Technologies in Mazomanie. Doyle said, "modern manufacturing that is focused on energy conservation, this is the future of our state. This is where we are going."
The plant already employs 54 in Mazomanie, a number that's expected to expand to 100 this year. Cardinal has also received $500,000 in stimulus funding to expand and upgrade their Portage plant.
Clinton and Gore Promote Health Care Reform in Joint Appearance
Posted by: Sam on 9/1/2009
Former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore made a joint appearance in Tennessee to urge the passage of health care reform in America. Gore said the country has “a moral duty to pass health care reform this year.”
The video below shows highlights from the event:
Related link:
» August, 2009
Help Protect our Freshmen 15
Posted by: Sam on 8/31/2009
As college freshmen are gearing up for school, they’ll try to avoid gaining the notorious Freshman 15.
But Democrats around the state are looking to gain in 2010, and with only 15 months to go, we’re counting on you to help us protect our freshman incumbents in the State Legislature.
You can help us supersize our majority by signing up to contribute $15 every month for the next 15 months until Election Day.
From Pepin to Portage, Black River Falls to Two Rivers and all points in between - your generosity will mean more organizers in more field offices across the state.
Chair Mike Tate's Statement on the Passing of Senator Ted Kennedy
Posted by: Sam on 8/26/2009
DPW Chair Mike
Tate today reflected on the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy:
“America lost a giant today.
Senator Ted Kennedy dedicated his life to serving others. In so doing,
he inspired generations of citizens with his work on poverty, civil
rights, education, and especially his belief that every single American
deserves access to quality affordable health care.
As our nation's leaders and the Democratic Party search for the words
to honor Kennedy’s service, we should thank him for truly being the
Senator for every American. He was the cornerstone and voice for the
Democratic Party whenever we lost our way or came to a bump in the
road. Kennedy comforted and inspired - whether filling the void left by
his brothers or being among the first to endorse Barack Obama for
President - helping light the path for a new generation of leadership
in this country.
Today we miss Senator Kennedy, but we know that tomorrow - and far into
the future - Americans who may never know his name will lead better
lives and prosper because of his work.”
Additional Links:
Statement
from Senator Feingold
Statement
from Senator Kohl
Post
Crescent: Wisconsin Democrats cite Sen. Kennedy's leadership, devotion
Kapanke to pay for open records violations
Posted by: Sam on 8/20/2009
AP: Judge Ready to Rule Against Kapanke Over Records MADISON, Wis. ― A judge says he is prepared to rule in favor of the Democratic Party in its open records lawsuit against state Sen. Dan Kapanke (kah-PANK-ee'). Niess said he believes the law requires him to consider the Democrats the prevailing party under those circumstances but stopped short of entering a formal ruling.
Kapanke's illegal activity takes yet another turn
Posted by: Sam on 8/13/2009
From Milwaukee World:
In a Milwaukeeworld post last Friday, August 7th, 2009, on Sen. Dan Kapanke's controversial "non-partisan" June economic forum, we ran this quote from the La Crosse Tribune:
Kapanke’s staff had asked Senate chief clerk Rob Marchant if the forums could be run through the campaign account, because Senate rules prohibit charging for Senate events, and Kapanke wanted to recoup the cost of a light breakfast at the forums.
However, the article, by Richard Mial, did not include the clerk's response, so Milwaukeeworld called Marchant to find out how he ruled on the issue.
In fact, Marchant said there was "no such thing" as a ruling from him as to whether Kapanke could use his campaign account as a conduit of funds from his forum. He said he never was asked to consider the subject, and would have referred it to the Government Accountability Board if he had.
Sen. Kohl Discusses the Need for Health Care Reform
Posted by: Sam on 8/10/2009
Senator Herb Kohl discusses the myths surrounding health care reform and the need for reform now:
Editorial: Civility is Missing at Kagen Health Forum
Posted by: Sam on 8/6/2009
Roger Utnehmer from Door County Daily News wrote an editorial that appeared today calling for civility at Congressman Kagen's health care listening sessions: The treatment of Congressman Steve Kagen at a health care forum in Green Bay proves again that civility is becoming a missing ingredient in our civic discourse. Kagen was shouted down repeatedly and interrupted by hecklers. A widely-circulated memo advises conservatives how to treat public officials; “Make him uneasy…stand up and shout and sit right back down…rattle him,” the memo says."
"Disruptive tactics by people objecting to health care reform are being promoted nationally by Bob MacGuffie, head of a group called the Tea Party Patriots. The strategy, outlined in emails to conservative groups across America, is to shout down, disrupt and distract members of Congress.
New DNC Web ad:
Posted by: Sam on 8/5/2009
As Democrats continue to fight for meaningful health care reform in America, Republicans and their allied groups are getting desperate. Instead of engaging in a reasoned debate, they have organized mobs of anti-reform protestors to keep the message from being heard.
In response the DNC has released the following Web ad, please take a minute to watch it an share it with friends.
» July, 2009
Gov. Doyle Signs High-Speed Rail Pact with Midwest Governors
Posted by: Sam on 7/27/2009
Today Governor Doyle and leaders from seven Midwestern states agreed to work cooperatively to pursue American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to develop high-speed rail in the region.
"I am proud of the cooperation and hard work throughout the region that has prepared us to make this investment in our future," said Governor Doyle. He added that this agreement, coupled with the state's purchase of two high-speed trains puts the Midwest ahead of other regions in seeking funding.
The pact signed will establish a Midwest steering group to coordinate state funding applications and advocacy to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Doyle said "the Midwest has a real opportunity to become a leader in high-speed passenger rail."
New Web Ad Released:
Posted by: Sam on 7/24/2009
The DPW released a new Web ad thanking our Democratic leaders in Wisconsin for protecting Wisconsin's priorities and moving Wisconsin forward. Take a minute to watch our new ad and find out how you can thank your leaders:
To see other DPW Web videos, visit our YouTube channel.
Republicans Playing Politics with Health Care
Posted by: Sam on 7/21/2009
As President Obama and Democrats across the county continue to fight for health care reform, the Republican "Party of No" continues to stand in the way.
To highlight Republican opposition to reform, the DNC has released the Web ad "Playing Politics":
For more information on health care reform and what you can do in Wisconsin, visit our health care action center.
Gov. Doyle Takes First Step in Bringing High-Speed Rail to Wisconsin
Posted by: Sam on 7/17/2009
Governor Doyle announced today that the state will purchase two high-speed passenger trains which will be assembled and maintained in Wisconsin.
The new trains are capable of traveling up to 110 mph while carrying a maximum of 420 passengers. The state's agreement with train manufacturer, Talgo, also includes the option to buy two more trains if the state receives a portion of the $8 billion set aside for high-speed rail in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
The trains will be used along the Milwaukee-Chicago corridor, which future expansion possibly between Milwaukee and Madison. This means increased tourism across the state as well as the environmental benefit of mass transit.
Read the full release from the Office of the Governor.
New Health Care Ad:
Posted by: Sam on 7/15/2009
The Democratic Party released a new ad today that shows the true grassroots support for health care reform in America. Please take a second to watch and share the video:
Show your support for Judge Sotomayor
Posted by: Sam on 7/14/2009
As Americans from all walks of life stand with Judge Sonia Sotomayor, you can also declare your support for a Judge who will bring more federal judicial experience to the Supreme Court than any justice in 100 years.
Judge Sotomayor's brilliant legal mind and knowledge of how the law works have been developed over her three decade legal career. This week as she begins her confirmation hearing, we can all show that we stand with her.
Visit Organizing for America's action center to find out more about Judge Sotomayor and show your support.
Be in the next DPW Web video
Posted by: Sam on 7/10/2009
You can be featured in our next Web video, all you have to do is thank your Democratic leaders.
Governor Doyle and our Democratic leaders in the Assembly and Senate have passed a budget protected the middle class, education and businesses in Wisconsin. Please join the DPW and Democrats across the state in thanking out leadership.
Make a sign showing what you're thankful for, then send it in and we'll put it together with videos from Democrats across the state. Watch the clip below for an example of what the final video will look like:
AP: White House, hospitals reach deal on health care
Posted by: Sam on 7/8/2009
WASHINGTON (AP) — The nation's hospitals will give up $155 billion in future Medicare and Medicaid payments to help defray the cost of President Barack Obama's health care plan.
"Reform is coming. It is on track; it is coming. We have tried for decades to fix a broken system, and we have never, in my entire tenure in public life, been this close," Biden said. And, in a firm message to lawmakers, Biden added, "We must — and we will — enact reform by the end of August."
Obama has set an ambitious timetable for legislation, with the hope of signing a comprehensive bill this fall. But lawmakers returned Tuesday from their July 4 break with deep misgivings about the benefits tax — a key element in the discussion — and questions about many parts of the complex legislation.
Read the full AP story.
Help Our Organizing Director Travel the State
Posted by: Sam on 7/6/2009
Our new Organizing Director, Jake Hajdu, will be traveling to every corner of the state to promote the efforts of the Democratic Party and work with local activists.
We don't want Jake to miss out on an opportunity to support local County Parties. That's where you come in. Contribute online right now and make sure we can continue to send him across the state and even to your community.
If you have an event, meeting, or other activity that you would like Jake to attend, please contact him at jacobh@wisdems.org or call 608-255-5172.
Student Loan Payments Now More Affordable
Posted by: Sam on 7/2/2009
There is good news for
students and families working to pay off student loans. Yesterday the
Income-Based Repayment (IBR) program was put into effect, which will
cap monthly loan payments at only 15 percent of their discretionary
income. After 25 years in the program, borrowers' debts will be completely forgiven
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised the program, saying "our nation’s economic competitiveness depends on young Americans having access to the highest quality education available, regardless of financial need."
As the cost of college remains a
concern for many Americans, this program makes student loans more
affordable and makes a quality education more attainable. This
represents the largest investment in student financial aid since 1944.
In addition to cutting monthly
payments, the IBR program tomorrow also brings the second interest rate
cut on subsidized federal student loans — decreasing from 6 percent to
5.6 percent. Over the next few years these rates will continue to
decrease until they reach 3.4 percent.
You can use the Department of Education's calculator to estimate how you will benefit from the new initiative.
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Neumann Officially Ready to Party Like it's 1995
Posted by: Sam on 7/1/2009
GOP has-been Mark Neumann officially filed his paperwork with the Government Accountability Board today and will be running for governor.
“It’s official. Mark Neumann is ready to party like it’s 1995,” said Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman, Mike Tate. “It looks like the GOP has trotted out yet another mid-90’s retread politician to help save their ever-shrinking party.”
Wisconsin voters haven’t heard much from Neumann since he retreated into obscurity following his loss in the 1998 US Senate race. And there’s a reason: he hasn’t had anything new to say. For his announcement, Neumann merely dusted off a few speeches from 1995 and selected remarks at random.
During his time in Congress, Neumann’s opinions and beliefs were exposed to be far out of step with the views of Wisconsin voters. From privatizing schools and social security to supporting discrimination and outlawing abortion, Neumann took positions far outside of the mainstream.
Sen. Ted Kanavas May Move to Texas
Posted by: Sam on 7/1/2009
WisBusiness reports that Senator Ted Kanavas (R-Brookfield) may be planning a move to Texas after a letter on his Web site hinted that he would be open to the move.
In response, DPW Chair Mike Tate said "don't let the door hit you on the way out."
» June, 2009
"Flip Flop Scott" Thanks Democratic Leadership for Stimulus Funds
Posted by: Sam on 6/30/2009
Gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker has once again been caught flip-flopping on the federal stimulus. This week, Walker admitted the funding infusion will actually save his county from a transit crisis after months of labeling the stimulus as wasteful and unnecessary.
In an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel yesterday, Walker states that the county can “get through 2011 without a major crisis in transit funding, thanks to an infusion of federal stimulus funds.”
The comments come in stark contrast to Walker’s remarks in a Jan. 6 interview with the very same newspaper, in which he declared, “I’m not asking for any new projects or things to be done here." Walker went as far as to pen a column in the Wall Street Journal Feb. 28, titled “Why I’m not lining up for stimulus handouts.”
To help keep up with Walker’s hypocrisy, the DPW has added his latest 180° turn to the “Walker Flip-Flop Timeline."
New DPW Facebook Page
Posted by: Sam on 6/29/2009
To stay in better contact with DPW members, we are in the process of transitioning from a Facebook Group to a Facebook Page.
This change will allow you to see updates as they happen in your news feed and give your feedback. Through our Facebook Page we can continue to build our online community and keep you involved in the Democratic Party of Wisconsin.
Thank you for your continued support and be sure to visit the Page and become a fan.
Find a National Health Care Day of Service close to you
Posted by: Sam on 6/26/2009
Tomorrow thousands of service events will take place tomorrow across the country to highlight the need for health care reform and show that there is wide support for meaningful health care reform this year.
The National Health Care Day of Service is an extension of United We Serve, a new initiative announced by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama that is asking all Americans to help build sustained and meaningful community service opportunities and lay the foundation for reform in America.
Press Gazette: Doyle discusses health care at Obama meeting
Posted by: Sam on 6/25/2009
WASHINGTON — Gov. Jim Doyle highlighted the expansion of Wisconsin's BadgerCare Plus health insurance plan in a meeting Wednesday with President Barack Obama and four other governors.
The meeting followed a regional White House Forum on Health Care in March that Doyle co-hosted with Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who also attended Wednesday's meeting at the White House.
In an interview following the closed session, Doyle said Obama was particularly interested in what states are doing on health-care reform that might help lawmakers in Washington as they work to provide affordable coverage to every American. Doyle said the president was keen on ensuring that states have the flexibility to develop innovative programs.
Read the full Green Bay Press Gazette Story.
Here's what President Obama had to say after their meeting:
Health Care Stories for America Launched
Posted by: Sam on 6/23/2009
New Web Ad:
Posted by: Sam on 6/22/2009
The DPW today released a new Web ad to highlight Scott Walker's illegal corporate-funded motorcycle campaign tour.
The facts are clear: Scott Walker is an announced candidate for governor using corporate cash and taxpayer resources to literally fuel his campaign tour. Walker is essentially using an illegal corporate credit card to finance his campaign for governor.
Milwaukee County Supervisors File Complaint Against Walker
Posted by: Sam on 6/19/2009
Members of the Milwaukee County Board have filed an elections complaint against Scott Walker for illegally funding his statewide motorcycle campaign with corporate cash and tax dollars.
“Scott Walker is an announced candidate for governor using corporate cash and taxpayer dollars to literally fuel his campaign tour,” said Mike Tate, Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. “This is an egregious violation of election rules and I hope the Election Commission will punish Walker to the full extent of the law.”
Furthermore, Walker is using campaign staff to advance and coordinate his motorcycle trips, and the campaign's involvement clearly politicizes the event. (Source: Walker. Campaign e-mails, 6.14.04, http://www.wisopinion.com/blogs/uploads/0507walkerride.pdf)
Read the complaint: http://www.wispolitics.com/1006/090619WalkerComplaint.pdf
2009 State Convention Video
If you were at the State Convention last weekend you may have run into the DPW YouTube Crew. Check out the video and see what delegates and visitors had to say about this year's convention:
We have also updated out State Convention Page with photos and links to articles covering the State Convention.
Balloon Man!
Woodson welcomes Gov. Doyle at the 2009 Convention
Big Talker Walker
DPW State Convention Video Message
AP: Wisconsin Democrats to Elect Youngest Party Chair
At age 30, Tate is set to become the youngest state chair in the nation of either party when Wisconsin Democratic Party activists elect him to a 2-year term Saturday during their convention in
Tate will be in charge of hiring staff, raising money, defending Democratic policies and attacking Republicans. His goal in 2010 is to help Senator Russ Feingold and Governor Jim Doyle win re-election and keep the party in control of both houses of the Legislature.
Read the full AP story.
Van Hollen Misled Public, Media About Cuts to DOJ
From WisPolitics…
The state Department of Justice faces a much smaller cut in GPR and all funds than the $17 million Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen publicized last week in criticizing the JFC budget, according to the Fiscal Bureau summary released today.
….According to LFB, the JFC budget would cut the agency $7 million in GPR compared to the base year doubled, a reduction of 8.3 percent. The reduction in all funds would be almost $3.9 million, equal to a 2.1 percent cut. …
JFC Co-Chair Mark Pocan, D-Madison, countered the LFB numbers back up the Dems’ contention that the AG is has been misleading the public.
“I can pretty much tell the attorney general wasn’t a math major,” Pocan said. “We’ve been saying this since day one. The cuts he’s been coming up with don’t match what’s in the budget or what’s in reality.”
Pocan said Van Hollen totaled up all the cuts JFC approved without taking into account the new money pumped into the agency.
See the LFB summary: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/lfb/2009-11Budget/JFC/doj.pdf
Washington Post: Obama Calls for New Beginning With World's Muslims
CAIRO, June 4 -- President Obama asked Thursday for a "new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world" in a speech that urged Islamic nations to embrace democracy, women's rights, religious tolerance and the right of Israel to co-exist with an independent Palestinian state.
In an address designed to change perceptions of the United States in the Arab Middle East and beyond, Obama reviewed the troubled historical legacy between Islam and the rest of the world, from colonialism through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the uncertainty surrounding cultural and economic globalization. Watch the video of President Obama's speech:
Van Hollen Distributing Republican Talking Points, Lobbying Orders to State Employees
In addition, Van Hollen's office has been sending the same talking points used by the Republican Party of Wisconsin and the Scott Walker for Governor campaign to employees, along with their political lobbying instructions.
The citizens of Wisconsin deserve to know more about Van Hollen's forced state employee lobbying campaign. Read the DPW's open records request.
2009 State Convention: The Difference is Leadership
Obama Plans June 11 Visit to Green Bay
» May, 2009
AP: Wisconsin budget panel finalizes plan to close hole
Read the full AP story.
WisPolitics: Wineke Prepares to Exit as Party Chair with Dems on Top
Posted by: Alec on 5/27/2009
As Wineke prepares to step down from the post next month, the party is coming off the best showing a Dem prez candidate has had in the state in 40 years, has control of both houses of the Legislature and saw Steve Kagen not only win the 8th CD but become the first Dem in decades to defend the seat as well.
Read the full WisPolitics story.
President Obama nominates Sonia Sotomayor to Supreme Court
President Obama announced today that federal appeals judge Sonia Sotomayor will be his nominee for United States Supreme Court Justice. Sotomayor will be the first Latina justice as well as the third woman to serve in the position.
Obama called her "an inspiring woman" whose unique background and experiences will bring the perspective of the oridinary people to the Court. Sotomayor grew up in the South Bronx and graduated from Yale Law School. She has worked on a variety of levels in the federal court system as a district attourney, corporate litigator, federal district judge, and judge on the Second Circut Court of Appeals.
RPW in Primary Denial
Posted by: Alec on 5/21/2009
The Republican Party of Wisconsin is in complete denial about the upcoming GOP primary showdown between Scott Walker and Mark Neumann. Case in point: See the giant “Scott Walker for Governor” banner up on the RPW home page: (screenshot attached and below)
This e-endorsement runs contrary to a statement RPW spokesperson Kirsten Kukowski made to a reporter a few weeks ago when she said the party does not plan to formally endorse a candidate until its convention in May 2010.
GOP Hearts Dick Cheney
Founders Day 2009 a Success!
Posted by: Alec on 5/19/2009
Politico: GOP, RNC to Rebrand Democrats as 'Socialists'
Posted by: Alec on 5/13/2009
A member of the Republican National Committee told me Tuesday that when the RNC meets in an extraordinary special session next week, it will approve a resolution rebranding Democrats as the “Democrat Socialist Party.”
When I asked if such a resolution would force RNC Chairman Michael Steele to use that label when talking about Democrats in all his speeches and press releases, the RNC member replied: “Who cares?”
Which pretty much sums up the attitude some members of the RNC have toward their chairman these days.
Read the full story: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/22445.html
Introducing the Wisconsin Prosperity Project:
A recent story in the Wisconsin State Journal exposes a new conservative master plan to create the Wisconsin Prosperity Project, a group of 14 new right-wing independent organizations designed to smear Democratic candidates.
The mastermind behind the entire shady plan is indicted felon Scott Jensen, who is facing trial for using taxpayer money for campaign purposes.
The group’s main organizer is Mark Block, who paid a $15,000 fine in 2001 for illegally coordinating a Supreme Court campaign with an outside “independent” group – the very same type of organization he’s pulling together now.
The DPW has uncovered some more fun facts about the
· The WPP seeks to create a “New Minority Group” by 2011.
· The Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance and the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute (WPRI) are included in the group’s structure, even though they consistently tell the media that they are non-partisan.
· A group called Freedom Force will have a budget of $250,000 to train interns.
(sounds pretty fishy)
· According to the WPP summary, “The groups within this infrastructure would be publicly separate and privately coordinated.” (i.e. they will lie to the public about coordination.)
· The group’s logo is a picture of a house underneath a large tree.
(apparently, the tree is there to cover up all of the shady doings inside the house.)
Check out the New DPW Web Ad
Posted by: Alec on 5/11/2009
The DPW has released a new Web ad to introduce Republican gubernatorial wannabes Scott Walker and Mark Neumann to the citizens of Wisconsin. Check it out:
Olbermann Exposes Belling as a 'Welcher'
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
GOP Survivor Island
"It is true that being a republican moderate sometimes feels like being a cast member of Survivor-you are presented with multiple challenges, and you often get the distinct feeling you're no longer welcome in the tribe." -- Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-ME)
MJS: Belling Won't Pony Up on Racehorse Bet
Mark Belling to Vote Doyle for Governor
Posted by: Alec on 5/4/2009
Conservative talk show host Mark Belling will vote to reelect Governor Jim Doyle, according to a recent blog post he wrote in advance of the Kentucky Derby race. Belling, a horseracing enthusiast, wrote that he would vote for Doyle if 50-1 long-shot racehorse #8 Mine That Bird wins the
“#8 MINE THAT BIRD -- If this horse wins, I’ll never bet on another race and will vote for Jim Doyle for reelection,” wrote Belling on his blog. See Belling’s blog post:
Mine That Bird won at 50-1.
The DPW assumes that Belling is a man of his word and will make good on his pledge. Unfortunately it looks like Belling has already removed the post from his blog in an attempt to avoid embarrassment and save face with his ultra-conservative listeners. Fortunately, the DPW has uncovered a cached version of Belling’s original post for your reading pleasure.
Note to Vegas bookies: don’t assume Belling will make good on future bets.
I Wonder Who's Writing Steele's Strategy Memos ...
Posted by: Heidi on 5/1/2009
New DNC Web ad:
» April, 2009
What has the GOP Accomplished in First 100 Days?
Posted by: Heidi on 4/30/2009
DNC TV Ad
Posted by: Heidi on 4/28/2009
Walker Should Let Neumann Ride on Back of Harley
"If
Read the full blog post at Eye on Wisconsin.
(Photo from Blogging Blue)
100 Days of NO
Posted by: Heidi on 4/23/2009
Watch the latest Web ad from the DNC. Special guest appearance by Wisconsin's very own Paul Ryan.
Celebrate 39th Annual Earth Day in Honor of Gaylord Nelson
(Gaylord Nelson, late Wis. Gov., U.S. Sen. and Earth Day Founder)
Nearly four decades ago, Wisconsin’s Gaylord Nelson founded the first Earth Day, marking the birth of a new national environmental consciousness.
Now, after eight gloomy years under George Bush, President Obama has given us a new reason to celebrate this Earth Day. The Obama Administration has committed to a comprehensive energy plan that will generate millions of new clean energy jobs, including thousands here in Wisconsin.
Read the full DPW statement
Fraley Hired to Lead MacIver Institute Communications
Hypocrisy Watch: House Republicans Drove-Up National Debt Under Bush, Now Feigning Concern
Washington Republicans voted to support the Bush administration's reckless budgets, which more than doubled the national debt, but now criticize President Obama's efforts to spur economic recovery and growth. In light of their change of heart we wonder: has the Party Of No turned into the Party of Hypocrites? Watch the new DNC Web ad:
'Flip-Flop Scott' Gets the Bice Treatment
Bice: Walker
County
That's been well documented.
But the Republican gubernatorial wannabe now is hoping to turn President Barack Obama's economy recovery plan - and
"My decision not to accept federal stimulus money was not popular with liberals, but it was the right thing to do," Walker wrote in a fund-raising letter to supporters this week. "I need your help to share our commonsense message with people across Wisconsin. A government handout is not stimulus! Will you help, by sending a generous contribution . . . ?" ...
"It's a lie," said Supervisor Patricia Jursik, a fiscal conservative. Read Bice's column.
Obey to Keynote DPW Founders Day Gala
Congressman Dave Obey will give the keynote address at this year's Founders Day Gala as Democrats across the state gather to celebrate his 40 years in Congress. The event will be held on Saturday, May 16 in Milwaukee. Purchase tickets for Founders Day
Insani-Tea
Thousands attend tax-day protest in Madison,Wis.
By Scott Bauer
MADISON, Wis. - Speakers at a sometimes angry rally Wednesday accused Gov. Doyle and lawmakers of smoking crack cocaine, said government spending was ruining the country and called for the ouster of all elected Democrats. AP has the story
Sykes Endorses DPW Ad, Check
WE'LL CASH THE CHECK
By Charlie Sykes
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin will begin running a new TV ad this weekend that accuses Milwaukee County Exec Scott Walker of “talking out of both sides of his mouth” about federal stimulus funds.
The ad, which will debut Sunday on WTMJ-TV during “Sunday Insight with Charlie Sykes,” calls the likely 2010 gubernatorial candidate “Flip Flop Scott.”
The ad plays the Benny Hill theme while flashing text of various statements
Paul Ryan's Budget a Cruel Joke for 1st CD Constituents
Ryan's Fabricated Budget Figures
Walker Flip-Flops on No Wish List Pledge, Releases Own Stimulus Wish List
Scott Walker flip-flopped on his no wish list pledge and reversed course on his months-long, anti-stimulus campaign when he released his very own $130 million stimulus wish list. To keep track of Walker's constantly changing positions on the stimulus, the DPW has created a Walker flip-flop timeline. See the full timeline
» March, 2009
Michael Steele on Obama...
Posted by: Alec on 3/31/2009
I Guess the Head of the Republican Party Wasn't Available
Posted by: Alec on 3/30/2009
A former lieutenant governor of Maryland, Steele was elected RNC chairman after six rounds of balloting in January. State GOP Chairman Reince Priebus helped campaign for Steele to get the post and is now one of his top advisers.
The Republican Party is reeling from severe setbacks nationwide in the November election. Steele's had a rough start as party chair, having to apologize for calling conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh "incendiary and ugly."
The party has not announced any headliner for Saturday.
Paul Ryan Flip-Flops on AIG Bonus Tax
Posted by: Alec on 3/30/2009
Janesville Republican Paul Ryan flip-flopped on his vote last week in favor of a punitive tax increase on AIG employees.
After he voted for it, Ryan said he would have voted against the 90 percent tax increase, if he had known that legal scholars would deem it unconstitutional. Politico has the story.
Ryan's Budget Debut Ridiculed by National Media
Posted by: Alec on 3/27/2009
Steele: I Might Run for President
Posted by: Alec on 3/26/2009
Fernandez Must Come Clean on Illegal Campaign Attack
Posted by: Alec on 3/25/2009
The Democratic Party has evidence that DPI candidate Rose Fernandez and Republican Rep. Don Pridemore were in contact on DPI issues. Now Fernandez needs to come clean and admit that her campaign helped orchestrate the illegal campaign attack the GAB is poised to investigate.
The DPW is seeking records related to the collaboration. See the DPW release.
An Oldie but a Goodie
Posted by: Heidi on 3/24/2009
PRIDEMORE WATCH: GOP Legislator Lit Up in the Press for Illegal Campaigning
Posted by: Alec on 3/23/2009
AP: Democratic Party complains about legislator's release
Journal Sentinel: Democrats file complaint over comment on superintendent candidate
Waukesha Freeman: Dems file complaint against state Rep. Pridemore, Improper use of office alleged
WisPolitics: State Democratic Party files complaint over Pridemore press release
Capital Times: Nasty fight erupts over legislator's role in DPI race
MilwaukeeWorld: Dems to GAB: Pridemore campaigns with state resources
PRIDEMORE WATCH: Republican Uses State Office for Illegal Activity
Posted by: Alec on 3/20/2009
Yesterday, Republican Rep. Don Pridemore (R-Hartford) illegally used his state office and taxpayer resources to launch a press release that was a blatant political attack on DPI candidate Tony Evers. This was a calculated political attack, done on the taxpayer dime, designed to assist DPI candidate Rose Fernandez.
The DPW is asking the GAB to commence an immediate investigation of Pridemore’s actions. WisPolitics has the story.
Will Republicans Bend Steele?
Posted by: Heidi on 3/19/2009
Politico writer Roger Simon asks an interesting question: Should RNC Chair Michael Steele find himself a new party?
"In recent weeks, Steele has said that abortion is a matter of 'individual choice,' that Rush Limbaugh is 'incendiary' and 'ugly,' that homosexuality is not a matter of choice but of nature, that the party needs a '12-step program' and that people 'have absolutely no reason — none — to trust our word or our actions at this point.'"
BARACK-ETOLOGY
Posted by: Alec on 3/18/2009
Lawmakers: Van Hollen Guilty of Using Scare Tactics
Posted by: Alec on 3/18/2009
State Sen. Lena Taylor, D-Milwaukee, accused him of never standing up to discrimination. “I’m concerned about the fact you are the keeper of justice in this state. I do have questions about your sense of fairness,”
Committee co-chair Mark Pocan, D-Madison, got in his shots, too. He cited requests for spending on a lawsuit last fall to force state election officials to verify voter identities and a gang assessment that has drawn criticism from police. Read the AP story.
Van Hollen Uses State Office to Launch Hyper-Partisan Attack
Posted by: Shinae on 3/17/2009
Apparently Van Hollen didn’t learn his lesson last fall when he got skewered by the courts and editorial boards for using his state office to play political games and manipulate the election.
Read the DPW press release.
DNC Releases Web Ad Highlighting 'The Party of No'
Posted by: Shinae on 3/17/2009
Outagamie Co. Exec. Asks for Scott Walker's Unwanted Stimulus Funds
Posted by: Alec on 3/16/2009
According to WFRV-TV, Outagamie Co. Exec. Toby Paltzer, a Republican, wants to use the stimulus funds Scott Walker is rejecting to help bring jobs and projects up to
See the WFRV-TV video report.
Paltzer not only asks for the funds but also slams
Walker’s Staff and Colleagues in Milwaukee County Start to Turn on Him
Posted by: Alec on 3/13/2009
Scott Walker’s crusade against new jobs has resulted in mass ‘controversy’ and ‘dissension’ in the ranks of county government, as staff fear that Walker will squander their chance at economic recovery, according to a new report.
The report, published by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Dave Umhoefer and two other leading reporters, exposes the infighting and controversy that has erupted in
Steele Bucks GOP on Abortion
Posted by: Shinae on 3/13/2009
RNC Chair Michael Steele found himself yet again explaining what he had meant to say, this time after a lively interview with GQ in which he suggested that women should have the right to decide whether to have an abortion. “I think that’s an individual choice,” he said.
Read a related article at NYTimes.com.
Sad Elephant
Posted by: Shinae on 3/13/2009
A Big Head for the GOP!
Posted by: Shinae on 3/11/2009
NEW VIDEO: Joe the Plumber vs. Michael Steele
Posted by: Alec on 3/10/2009
Below is the video of Joe the Plumber in
Click on this link to open the video - go to the 46:30 mark.
If for some reason that doesn't work, click here and watch part 1 of the Americans for Prosperity 2nd Annual Summit: Defending the American Dream.
Joe the Plumber Plunges Michael Steele
Posted by: Alec on 3/9/2009
Joe the Plumber used his speech at a conservative summit in
"Unfortunately we have a chairman up there who wants to redefine conservatism; he wants to make it hip hop, put it in a new package and sell it,” Wurzelbacher said, knocking Republican Party Chairman Michael Steele. “You can’t sell principles; either you have them or you don’t,” Wurzelbacher said to applause from most of the 800 in attendance.
Rush Limbaugh Ad: The Real GOP Leader (video)
Posted by: Shinae on 3/7/2009
Which leader did Republicans consider their hero last weekend? Watch the ad from Americans United for Change to see the GOP’s “real leader” bounce around like a bobble head doll.
D.C. Examiner: The Growing Republican Unhappiness With Michael Steele
Posted by: Shinae on 3/7/2009
Republican National Committee chairman Michael Steele's dust-up with Rush Limbaugh has brought to the fore so-far unspoken concerns about Steele's performance in his early days as head of the GOP.
A number of Republican politicos around
Chaos Erupts at the RNC
Posted by: Alec on 3/4/2009
RNC Chair Michael Steele is currently at war with Rush Limbaugh over who is the real leader of the Republican Party. Steele started the war by telling CNN that Rush is not the real leader, and dismissed him as an “entertainer” whose comments are “incendiary,” and “ugly."
Then Rush ripped into Steele, saying, "I would be embarrassed to say that I'm in charge of the Republican Party in the sad-sack state that it's in,” adding he, "might get out the hari-kari knife" if he had Steele's job.
How’s that makeover been going?
AP: GOP chairman apologizes for Limbaugh remarks
Salon.com: The shame of Michael Steele
Politico: Top RNC staffer forced to quit
UPI: Report: RNC's Crawford forced out
The Washington Post: Upheaval at the RNC
» February, 2009
» January, 2009
» October, 2008
» September, 2008
» July, 2008
» June, 2008
