"Wisconsinites expect more from us and I hope at some point the Legislature will rise to the occasion and work with me to solve the pressing issues facing our state." - Governor-elect Tony Evers

GREEN BAY, WI - Senator Dave Hansen of Green Bay had the following to say Wednesday morning regarding the Republican lame duck session.

“Scott Walker’s and Senate Republicans’ Christmas gift to the people of Wisconsin was to ignore their desire for change and instead deny Governor-elect Tony Evers’ and Attorney General Josh Kaul’s the ability to effectively carry out their duties on behalf of people of our state.

“Their actions are an affront to the voters, basic fairness and our democracy. Rather than work to ensure a smooth transition, they decided to undermine the will of the people and the incoming administration before Tony Evers and Josh Kaul take office on January 7th.

“They can try all they want to turn back the clock on the election, but the people are moving on without them. The best thing for all of Wisconsin would be for Scott Walker and Senate Republicans to come to terms with that and work sincerely with Governor-elect Evers and our new attorney general to help address the challenges our state and our citizens and families are facing.”

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/capitol-night-wisc-s5.jpgThe bills proposed in the Extraordinary Session called by Republican Leaders will create powers for the Legislature that handcuff the new administration and curtail the power of the incoming Governor and Attorney General. Wisconsinites expect a respectful transition of power, not a power grab by one party.

Peaceful Transition of Power and Will of the People Thwarted says Sen. Frostman.

Former President George H.W. Bush died last week at age 94.

MADISON – Late Friday evening former President George H.W. Bush passed away at the age of 94. After hearing the news, Senator Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) released the following statement:

“I join the nation in recognizing the life and legacy of President George H.W. Bush. In learning of the letter that Bush left for Bill Clinton after the hard fought 1992 presidential election, I was so moved by him telling Clinton that “Your success is now our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.” It is at once both a reminder of how political discourse and campaigns have changed, as well as the way things are supposed to be.”

“I did not agree with many of the policies of the 41st President, including his vote against the 1990 Civil Rights Bill and the racially charged use of the Willie Horton ad. However, when given a choice to serve his country or serve himself, he chose country every time.”

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/landfill-s5.jpgBills will have dire consequences for Wisconsin’s environment – diminishing the roll of scientists, reducing checks and balances, and favoring illegal polluters.