http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/mining_wisconsin_senate_s5.jpgSen. Vinehout writes about how she drafts commonsense legislation from listening to her constituents, how ideas are born in the capitol, and the importance of speaking out if Wisconsin’s laws need to be changed.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/scott_walker_voting_booths-s5.jpgPassing non-partisan redistricting should be a top priority. Sen. Hansen will reintroduce legislation for 2017 to create fair and accurate district maps.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/wisc-capitol-dome-s5.jpgCourt strikes down 2011 state Assembly maps saying they were blatantly partisan and denied Democrats a fair shot. Decision could have broad implications for other states' gerrymandered maps.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/education-s5.jpgSen. Kathleen Vinehout writes about the 2017-19 biennial budget proposal by State Superintendent of Schools Tony Evers. How will the recommendations help public schools, particularly small rural schools?

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/dems-react-2016loss-s5.jpgDemocrats and Progressives all over Wisconsin are feeling the same overall funk and feelings of depression as they try to grapple with the Trump win.

The first step toward healing must come from Trump. Then we can join in solidarity to repair it by attempting to be more tolerant of, and kinder to, each other.

HOWARD, WI - The overall psyche of our nation has been damaged by the rhetoric we have heard during this campaign. Now that it is over, we need to join in solidarity to repair it by attempting to be more tolerant of, and kinder to, each other.

I am deeply concerned about the unquestionably real atmosphere of intimidation and fear brought on by the election. I am particularly worried about the impact this has on our children and those most vulnerable to prejudice. The stories of children being bullied and immigrants being demoralized is both heartbreaking and unacceptable.

The first step to rectify the situation should come from President-elect Donald Trump. He needs to lead the way by immediately and unequivocally repudiating the outpouring of racist, sexist, xenophobic, anti-Semitic and homophobic insults, threats and attacks being associated with his name. Then every parent, employer, teacher and citizen must follow with zero tolerance of such behavior.