Will The Nation Go The Way Of Wisconsin?

Former Democratic Senator Russ Feingold from Wisconsin is a class act.  The good people of Wisconsin gave him the boot in November, and he has nothing but good to say about his fellow citizens:



Make no mistake about this. Governor Scott Walker is using the state's budget deficit as an excuse to go after the rights of working people in Wisconsin.  A reason to do something Republicans take every advantage to do -- demonize and vilify government workers.  Every chance they get. And here, they see their chance to tear unions to shred, FAST AND FURIOUS.  At a moment's notice.

From The New York Times:

MADISON, Wis. — As furious protesters once again began gathering near the state Capitol building, state senators were expected to vote on Thursday on a bill that would sharply curtail the collective bargaining rights and slash benefits for most public sector workers in the state.

Madison public schools were closed for a second day on Thursday, as teachers called in sick to lobby at the Capitol against the sweeping proposal. More than a dozen other public school districts announced they were closed for the day as well.

Late into Wednesday evening, a legislative committee approved the measure on a 12-to-4 vote that split along partisan lines, Republicans in favor and Democrats opposed. After an emotional debate, the committee made only minor changes to the proposal put forth last week by Gov. Scott Walker, a Republican, clearing the way for what Mr. Walker hopes will be swift approval by both chambers by Friday.

No doubt in my mind other governors will try and do the same. The question is, when they do, will the people take to the streets like they have done in Madison?

Most states don't have the long (and strong) labor history written in Wisconsin. People in Madison know what the words "labor struggle" mean.  So, all I can say, is we'll have to wait and see.