Politics

Wisconsin Gov. Tries to End Legislative Stand-Off With Union Concessions

MADISON, Wis. (AP/The Blaze) – After turning down an invitation to meet with Democratic Party leaders on Monday, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has offered to keep certain collective bargaining rights in place for state workers in a proposed compromise aimed at ending a nearly three-week standoff with absent Democratic state senators, according to e-mails released Tuesday by his office.

The e-mails, some dated as recently as Sunday, show a softened stance in Walker’s talks with the 14 Democrats who fled to Illinois to block a vote on his original proposal that would strip nearly all collective bargaining rights for public workers and force concessions amounting to an average 8 percent pay cut.

Under the compromise floated by Walker and detailed in the e-mails, workers would be able to continue bargaining over their salaries with no limit, a change from his original plan that banned negotiated salary increases beyond inflation. He also proposed compromises allowing collective bargaining to stay in place on mandatory overtime, performance bonuses, hazardous duty pay and classroom size for teachers.

Wisconsin Gov. Tries to End Legislative Stand Off With Union Concessions

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (AP)

Increased contributions for health insurance and pension, projected to save the state $330 million by mid-2013, would remain. The unions and Democrats have agreed to those concessions to help balance a projected $3.6 billion budget shortfall.

Sen. Bob Jauch, one of the 14 AWOL Democrats, said he hoped the compromise would serve as a blueprint for future negotiations. But he and Sen. Tim Cullen, who were both working with Walker’s administration, said the latest offer was inadequate.

The e-mails show that Jauch had wanted even more items to be subject to bargaining that Walker seeks to eliminate, including sick leave and vacation pay.

“I consider the lines of communication still open,” Cullen said Tuesday. “Whether there’s going to be any communicating, remains to be seen. These things ebb and flow.”

Walker has repeatedly said that he would not budge on the key parts of the bill that’s been stymied in the Senate after Democrats left 19 days ago. Since then, the pressure to deal has increased as protests reached as large as 80,000 people, polls show the public want a compromise and recall efforts were launched against 16 senators, including eight Republicans.

Some of the items in Walker’s compromise plan could only be bargained if both sides agree to take them up. Workplace safety would be subjected to bargaining regardless.

Walker also proposed allowing collective bargaining agreements to last up to two years, instead of the one-year limit in his original proposal. Unions would only have to vote to remain in existence every three years, instead of annually as Walker initially proposed.

Additionally, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Authority employees would not lose all union bargaining rights and the Legislature‘s budget committee would have to vote to approve any changes to Medicaid programs sought by Walker’s administration. Under the original bill, the Department of Health Services could make cuts and other changes to programs benefiting the poor, elderly and disabled without requiring a hearing or vote by the legislative committee.

Senate Republicans spent hours going over the compromise plan Tuesday morning in a closed-door meeting, Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said. He acknowledged that pressure was increasing on the senators, saying the recall efforts launched against eight Republicans was “on everybody’s minds.”

“Everybody’s obviously receiving a lot of pressure,” Fitzgerald said. “I had people on my front porch before I left this morning.”

He didn’t say whether Senate Republicans agreed with the concessions Walker proposed on Sunday said support for the underlying bill remained strong.

“We’re rock solid, we’re fine,” he said.

Comments (290)

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  • CaptainSpaulding
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:06pm

    Thugs are winning in Wi.

    But it’s because the voters are letting them win. :(

    Report Post »  
  • ilovetheusa1
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:04pm

    another spineless phukin repub. man this sucks. if we lose in Wisconsin, we are doomed. I better go get a union job, it will pay off as much as being on welfare and foodstamps does.

    Report Post »  
  • ANewActivist
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:03pm

    So… our republic democracy means nothing! Nothing at all. Keep your powder dry.

    Report Post »  
  • commonsenseguy
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:03pm

    if he gives in ,they will continue to destroy this county,because they will continue to demand and strike until they get what they want,giving in show weakness, but standing your ground, will make every one stronger,i guess the unions finally got what they wanted so kiss all this hard work good bye, so with giving in to the unions, he just told the rest of his state to kiss his butt,the 10 % of unions are better than everyone of the other 90% .wow,what a trader,i guess the union money finally got to him to bad,i really thought he had some guts.

    Report Post »  
  • psst
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:02pm

    Oh wel! It was a good show while it lasted.
    The union marxists seems to have won one for the um ,gipper. Scuze moi, I meant Sotero.
    If you know you ain’t gonna be in for the long haul, why pick the fight in the first place?.
    If you’re gonna eventually surrender, may as well surrender right at the start. Otherwise, you’re gonna end up looking like a stupid arse.
    Seems the gov did not have the intestinal fortitude to fire some of the teachers.
    Oh well, move along. it was just one of those crazy things.

    Report Post »  
  • amerbur
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:01pm

    Just know we will be supporting recalls of all the cowardly Democrats that ran from thier responsibility and we will support those who have the guts to stand. Concessions can be made when the Union members are behaving like responsible citizens and not before. I have sent my money to the Republicans of Wisconsin.

    Report Post »  
  • RIGHTNOTLEFT
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:00pm

    You…have….got…..to……be…..kidding…..me……

    Report Post »  
  • AmericanStrega
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:59pm

    I’m not really surprised. I wonder what he got for caving?

    Report Post »  
  • NoRoomForSocialismHere
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:57pm

    Just another Progressive RINO

    Report Post »  
  • srevie
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:57pm

    If you compromise with the dims, you lose. Scott Walker should stand his ground or he will be eaten alive by the union machine. If he stands strong, he will win because the unions are standing on quicksand.

    Report Post » srevie  
  • NoRoomForSocialismHere
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:56pm

    Is there no one left with courage to do moral right?

    Report Post »  
    • Lana40
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:14pm

      I think the Lion in the Wizard of Oz had more courage than some of these folks. Sad day. I was praying that he wouldn’t cave in. Looking for that shinning hill that I can’t seem to find anymore. :(

      Report Post » Lana40  
  • Eblaze44
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:56pm

    They are winning. just hold out a few more weeks and it will all have been talk. it’s been the perfect filibuster.

    Report Post » Eblaze44  
    • Eblaze44
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:58pm

      The Dem’s figured out how to roadblock it. The US Senate, Harry Reid, has just the same effect on the House controlled Republicans, with the advantage that Obama no matter what has the veto, and there aren’t ever in the next two years going to be the votes to overturn any veto.

      Report Post » Eblaze44  
    • sleazyhippo
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:22am

      Actually, it’s ironic that the WI dems figured out a way to “just say no” as effectively as the recent Federal minority of senate filibuster mavens.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
  • Exrepublisheep
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:55pm

    Politics suck.

    Report Post » Exrepublisheep  
  • hauschild
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:55pm

    Time to fire the useless and move on.

    Report Post »  
  • kcinco
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:53pm

    Just as I feared …. he caved in. Disappointing.

    Report Post » kcinco  
  • NoRoomForSocialismHere
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:53pm

    All of that for nothing huh Walker. You were in a tough spot I know but you had them beat. It remains a fact that they should NOT have a bargining position with taxpayer money. If you chickened out becuase of the upcoming elections you will loose anyway because they are afraid of you now.

    Washington your next, all GOV employees must not be able to bargin with the citizens money!

    Report Post »  
  • Flown Over Too Long
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:53pm

    Wow — How disappointing of Walker – a RINO in training……an el foldo! For shame….negotiating with terrorists….he’s off my A list!
    When will the Republicans ever get a real Mensch and a good PR agency1
    Walker has lost my respect……i thought he had more backbone……while the world was watching, he caves……and rthe Democrats will stay in Illinois until he gives them everything their chidish desires wanted……a black day….they ate his lunch!

    Report Post »  
  • fertlmind
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:52pm

    fire them
    Hire people who want jobs
    regular folks are pissed
    and we out number them
    we also pay for all this
    fire them
    enough is enough

    Report Post » fertlmind  
    • decendentof56
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:19pm

      Hopefully, this will lead to the same outcome as the air-traffic controllers in 1981. Public employees cannot be allowed to strike!
      No tenure! No buy-out of unused sick days! No taxpayer money for pensions! No pension payout at 55! Sorry, but we pay your way.

      Report Post »  
  • JLSpyder
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:51pm

    I guess we know how politics in the future will work…

    Report Post »  
  • Leavon
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:50pm

    Someone kick this guy in the ass and align his spine again he’s starting to lose his focus.

    Report Post »  
  • mattsanz
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:50pm

    It is time to limit our Federal Govenment..28 Admendment, No other authority has the right to tax a sovereign citizen of a free and independent state.29 Admendment, No other authority has the right to mark or number a sovereign …citizen of a free and independent state.30 Admendment, The US Federal Govt does not have the right or authority to enter a union w/ another nation state much less all nation states

    Report Post » mattsanz  
  • decendentof56
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:50pm

    Let the Dems stay in whatever state they are. Call their bluff. Who will then be the party of no. Do not back down.

    Report Post »  
    • fourfreedom
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:57pm

      Ditto, let the recalls that have started for some of these Dems continue and let the Dems answer for the potential layoffs.

      Report Post » fourfreedom  
    • decendentof56
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:12pm

      Correct, Four
      The heat is on them, not Walker. We need to stay on them in every state, every county, every town.
      Think about it……the socialist-left never backed down in their quest to make us a socialist nation. They always did the pushing, and we (not me) always backed off when they hollared ‘racist’ or whatever they were hollaring at the time.
      Keep pushing at them and exposing them.

      Report Post »  
    • shotzie
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:20pm

      Gov. Walker needs the prayers of the nation to sustain him.

      Report Post » shotzie  
  • mattsanz
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:50pm

    Please answer and ask these three questions. 1) Is Govt evil ? “Government is force; like fire.” George Washington 2) Can… evil do good ? “Power always thinks… that it is doing God’s service when it is violating all his laws.” …John A……dams
    3) If evil attempts to do good, do you support it ? “United States of America does more good in the world than any other Nation”..Blind Patriots…..Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.
    Thomas Paine

    Report Post » mattsanz  
  • GBMBulletsSKNRD
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:49pm

    Don’t do it GOV. no concessions.

    Report Post »  
    • Dale
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:46pm

      Gov, you’re about to reward bad behavior. NOT a good thing.

      Report Post » Dale  
    • walkwithme1966
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:27pm

      Oh gee – a Tea Partier that sold out – too bad!! http://wp.me/pYLB7-IH

      Report Post » walkwithme1966  
    • hifi74
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:52pm

      Opposed to lieing, cheating, and stealing to pass legislation like your corrupt progressive Dems Walkwithme. Do yourself a favor, remove your head from your fifth point of contact, your brain will thank me.

      Report Post » hifi74  
    • smithclar3nc3
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:23am

      Real question is will Wisconsin still become a right to work state. See if union members have a choice of keeping 1000 a year or giving for union due what do you think they’ll do.

      Report Post »  
    • TulsaYeeHaw
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 11:25pm

      walkwithme1966
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:27pm
      Oh gee – a Tea Partier that sold out – too bad!! http://wp.me/pYLB7-IH

      Guess he had tiger blood? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

      Report Post »  
  • ME
    Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:49pm

    I voted for him and now the coward is going to cave

    Report Post » ME  
    • decendentof56
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:52pm

      Very, very bad to give in to the unions!

      Report Post »  
    • GODSAMERICA
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:54pm

      I don’t live there so did ot vote for him but I sure hate to see him be just like the other business as usual republicans. They talk and act tough but after an “appropriate” time has elapsed starts caving in and giving them everything including the kitchen as long as it belongs to the taxpayers and working people (especially in the private sector). It is a real shame!

      Report Post » GODSAMERICA  
    • encinom
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:59pm

      The Tea-PArty has jumped the shark and proved that the astro-turf organization is a paper tiger. This rove that when push comes to shove, the astro-turf tea-baggers do not have the numbers. I know many former tea-baggers in Ohio, who after the actions of their governor, left the movement, Wi, is the same. Walker is hoping that he is not recalled, like the other GOP senators are in danger of being.

       
    • montanamadman
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:02pm

      i wonder how the citizens of wisconsin feel about this

      Report Post »  
    • cheezwhiz
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:10pm

      Anybody interested in what the TAXPAYERS want ?
      You know the people who work hard and live within their means,
      so that thugs can get rich and complain ?

      Report Post » cheezwhiz  
    • Laus Deo
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:12pm

      Scott Walker, you can KMA.

      Report Post » Laus Deo  
    • shotzie
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:18pm

      can’t imagine the pressure he has been under but those of you from Wisconsin, please contact him and urge him not to concede. He really does have to hold his ground here. I feared this might happen but I had hoped he would be the one to stand firm. He needs our prayers.

      Report Post » shotzie  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:19pm

      I didn’t make it past maybe the 2nd paragraph!

      WHY THE HELL DID YOU CAVE!!! YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT. THEY LEFT THE STATE, FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!!!

      You people cannot get anything right. They’re TRYING to destroy the economy! What the hell are you doing?!

      Report Post »  
    • Kurty C Wipe
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:27pm

      Their all the same, Savage was right, even this site is a distraction to what is really happening. The world is burning and Charlie Sheen is topic here, my gaad.
      “Nothing in politics happens by accident, everything that happens in politics is planned” FDR

      Report Post » Kurty C Wipe  
    • gbisapl
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:28pm

      It’s about time. No one ever cared about the money issues, the increased pension payments, or the increased healthcare coverage payments. This was never about the budget. This was always about destroying collective bargaining and crippling the unions.
      Also I’ll be surprised if this comment even shows up as my comments are not posting in other stories. I guess some people found my website offensive. Feel free to click on my name and see if you agree.

       
    • A1955Rosie
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:29pm

      Gov Walker needs to hear our support. If he has a FB page, get on it and support it. Share it with your friend. Do that darn grassroots the barry did. Get behind this man and show him we meant what we said when we voted people like him in.

      Report Post » A1955Rosie  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:31pm

      “Since then, the pressure to deal has increased as protests reached as large as 80,000 people, polls show the public want a compromise and recall efforts were launched against 16 senators, including eight Republicans.”

      Most of them were probably bussed in.

      WE ARE NOT A DEMOCRACY, WALKER! WE ARE A REPRESENTATIVE REPUBLIC!

      You are NOT supposed to take into account the number of people protesting. Only whether their petition for a redress of grievances are legitimate, CONSTITUTIONALLY SPEAKING!

      In this case, it is not. Do your job and end the public sector Unions.

      Report Post »  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:36pm

      “He acknowledged that pressure was increasing on the senators, saying the recall efforts launched against eight Republicans was “on everybody’s minds.”

      You’re not there for you! AND YOU WERE ELECTED BECAUSE YOU WERE AGAINST GOVERNMENT OVERSPENDING!!!

      Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:40pm

      I can’t believe it … another caving Republican … WTF!

      Report Post »  
    • lylee
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:40pm

      Gov. Walker are you being bullied? You never want to give an inch to the bully. You give in from your principled stand and the bullies will beat the crap out of you. Worse yet, the taxpayers who supported you will then let them beat the crap out of you. Your only option is to stand firm against bullies.

      Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:42pm

      Tell him NO!

      http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/scottwalkerdontbackdown/

      Report Post »  
    • jzs
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:43pm

      The Governor is beginning to recognize that the majority of people in the state don’t support him and the majority of working people nationwide (union or nonunion) don’t support him either. Poll after poll shows that. For all of you “We the People” tea partiers out there, you need to get a grasp on the fact that We the People means everybody, the population of his state, the population of the United States. You know what I mean: We the People. Not just people who are members of the Tea Party.

      jzs  
    • beekeeper
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:44pm

      What is the Democrat end-game? How do they think this ends in their favor?

      The Democrats are blocking any senate votes on any fiscal matters, how long cna the state go without budget? They’ve already proven they are more concerned about the collective bargaining rights of some union members than 1.500 state workers keeping their jobs. The 1,500 jobs that are about to be lost in Wisconsin are being lost because the Democrats blocked the Gov‘s attempt to refinance the state’s debt and avoid a $165 Million debt payment next week.

      Report Post » beekeeper  
    • BecksTheMan
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:46pm

      His supporters need to get more active in letting the republicans know you have their backs. They only have the power of the people who are behind them and apparently the left is doing a much better job convincing the republicans the public is against them. I do not blame the republicans and the governor here I blame the people who are wanting him to stand firm but are not doing enough to be heard and show them that you have their backs. It works both ways people the Governor and the Republicans have made a courageous stand but they good citizens of Wisconsin who want what is best for their state need to get more organized and show numbers much greater than the leftist have done.

      Report Post »  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:49pm

      @encinom,

      “This rove that when push comes to shove, the astro-turf tea-baggers do not have the numbers.”

      The numbers for what? We don’t have an unConstitutional public union that is payed by the taxpayers to fund our protests.

      And it’s not the numbers that matter, in a representative Republic. They‘re absolutely useless unless either it’s voting time, or if you’re saying that the government is violating their oath to the Constitution.

      Report Post »  
    • thepatriotdave
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:50pm

      Some of you have never played Poker have you? Walker is NOT caving.

      If you have been following the arguing in Madison, you would know that it’s the bennies and retirement packages thats killing the state, not the salaries. It‘s the same thing that’s killing most states that are heavily Unionized. If the Dems don’t accept this deal, then the 1,500 layoffs will be on their hands.

      Hey Union people… what good is your retirement package if you are unemployed?

      http://www.americasteapartynews.com

      Report Post » thepatriotdave  
    • Gold Coin & Economic News
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:52pm

      The only thing a compromise is going to do is delay the inevitable. One day they’ll all run out of money and all H*ll will break loose.

      Better start preparing.

      Report Post » Gold Coin & Economic News  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:54pm

      @jzs,

      “For all of you “We the People” tea partiers out there, you need to get a grasp on the fact that We the People means everybody, the population of his state, the population of the United States. You know what I mean: We the People. Not just people who are members of the Tea Party.”

      It’s “We the People” under the Constitutional Republic. Again, the numbers do not matter until it’s election time, or you have to force government to abide by it’s oath to the Constitution.

      We are NOT a Democracy.

      Report Post »  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:03pm

      @BecksTheMan,

      “I do not blame the republicans and the governor here I blame the people who are wanting him to stand firm but are not doing enough to be heard and show them that you have their backs.”

      They already showed up and elected him. What the protesters are doing only matters if what they are proposing is Constitutional, which it isn’t. Public Unions are unConstitutional on its face. Individuals have rights, not groups.

      His oath is to the Constitution – NOT the People, per se. The People are represented in America through a representative Republic – NOT a Democracy.

      Report Post »  
    • nothingbuthetruth
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:11pm

      come on you never give in to the demands of children

      Report Post »  
    • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:11pm

      So much for sticking to ones guns and doing what is right, instead of what is correct.

      Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • butch5555
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:15pm

      Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker he was the man that stood up for the people. now a union man.

      Report Post »  
    • Justin.Long
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:24pm

      no dont cave, stay strong walker

      Report Post » Justin.Long  
    • Alphonso
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:25pm

      govgeneral@wisconsin.gov

      Email the Governor and ask him to stand firm and stand tall.

      I did…

      Report Post »  
    • A1955Rosie
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:26pm

      A couple of thoughts here. First is, it‘s not over till it’s over. Second, George Washington lost many a battle before he won our freedom. Third. Unlike unions employees, many people do not get paid to stay off work so it’s difficult to make the opposing demonstration. Fourth Media is only reporting 1 side but there is very little to support the other side and we need to make sure there is a side to be seen. At the very least, I suggest Gov. Walkers FB site. It’s a site availabe to EVERYONE. I don’t suggest calling/faxing his office as you only inundate his personnel and it‘s beyond proof what’s said. However, you can’t post on his FB page and then…hopefully someone can come up w/something worth sharing to send around. GET THAT GOING. 1 Week can generate many voices to help Gov. Walker make his decision. God bless America.

      Report Post » A1955Rosie  
    • kryptonite
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:39pm

      Never give in to the demands of terrorists.

      I blame the cops. First, they sided with the union thugs. Second, they have done NOTHING to drag those usurpers of the law back into the state capitol. Does anyone really think the police have been unable to nab them? Puh-leeze.

      @BecksTheMan
      I agree, but the Traitor controls the MSM and most Americans still buy into their lies.

      Report Post »  
    • GEW
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:39pm

      So what this means for the private sector employees is that “We get to remain slaves!” Walker was one guy I never thought would cave. Now this will be the Union cry across the country. Say hello to the new mantra for Obama! Union boss wins. Enjoy your slavery America private sector.

      Report Post » GEW  
    • AzDebi
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:39pm

      Sorry to see that he is caving…What? He couldn’t wait them out? Too bad…really, really too bad!

      Report Post » AzDebi  
    • noagenda
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:41pm

      They will never learn. The Dems say it’s great but not enough which translates to we are not giving anything which is what the unions have been doing. That is why you do not cave into them. Recall them, put out a warrant, go on television daily and talk about how they fled the state and refuse to do their job but do not give in. If Gov. Walker gives into these babies then the whole country follows and mob rule learns they can win. We are a republic not a democracy, but I guess that is changing. Funny thing is that has never worked very well throughout history has it?

      Report Post »  
    • duce023
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:46pm

      If walker caves, this republic is over. It may take a few years, but the solcialist union party will be taking over…

      Screw these cry babies. Fire people walker…You coward!!!

      Report Post »  
    • hifi74
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 11:50pm

      JZS being that you dont live in Wisconsin I suggest you getting your facts straight lest looking like a useless mouth piece and tool. You are wrong in that most of the people of the state dont want him to continue. Get a clue before opening your mouth especially when you are clueless.

      From one of the Wisconsinites to you JZS, get a clue

      Hifi

      Report Post » hifi74  
    • restorehope
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:00am

      Hard to believe that he could compromise not only his principles, but also those of the people who elected him with high hopes that he would save the state. He should not be swayed by those inflated numbers of protesters, largely made up of people who were shipped into the state to agitate. And the poll numbers are rarely accurate because they often come from areas that are union strongholds. My message to Walker: Stay the course and do the right thing by showing the unions it is “We the People” and not “We the Workers” who are in charge of this country.

      Report Post »  
    • home_of_the_brave
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:43am

      It’s not “We the Union,” it’s “We the People,” and the people spoke in November. Do your Job Governor Walker.

      Report Post »  
    • JTFacts
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:56am

      The current batch of conservative are doomed. Amateurs playing above their league. Almost all of them have risen to their level of incompetence. No guts. We need a new movement. The word conservative has been trashed by this first batch of non-starters. It’s not a party – its a set of principles. I‘m too upset with Walker’s compromise to think right now. He should have allowed himself to be recalled and let the state fail and shut down before giving in. I’m afraid he is about to experience the same results.

      Report Post »  
    • encinom
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 1:01am

      Its funny to read the comments, from A Doctor’s Labor and others, during the tea-party riots over health care, the battle cry was, Obama is not listening to the people. Now that the tea-party approved Governor, lost the public (look at all the polls, even Fox can not deny Walker‘s number’s have tanked), the rally cry is to ignore the protestors.

      The Tea-Party has proven itself to be a DC insider backed group created to protect the interests of the Koch brothers. When real Americans saw the options, they decided to stand with their fellow Americans and not with the billionaires looking to strip rights.

      Report Post »  
    • altmanblaudio
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 1:22am

      This is a simple argument and if the guy can’t make it then boot him out and get someone in there that can. Public Unions undermine the republic, plain and simple. At the very least every union bargaining agreement should be a ballot vote BY THE PEOPLE.

      Report Post »  
    • Cobra Blue
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 2:17am

      Well..well..well. The usual process continues. Whoever blinks first looses. As is typical of all our fine Republican politicians across the nation, they have no stomach and most definitely NO BALLS to hang tough. I would much rather the Governor just give in from the beginning rather than act and talk tough all this time and then cave. So bottom line…the unions win. And with this victory they will be even more emboldened the next time a community, state or legislature stands up to them. The words I am thinking and would like to use to describe what I think of this Governor and the whole situation are not allowed on this site…or any other for that matter and would be most definitely censored. The people of Wisconsin got screwed. They elected the Governor to take care of business and this is the thanks they get. Another LIMP WRISTED, NO BALLS, CAN’T TAKE THE PRESSURE OR HEAT, HAVE NO GUTS OR STOMACH TO FIGHT, TOO WORRIED ABOUT WHAT THE MEDIA WILL SAY REPUBLICAN. PANSY’S ALL OF THEM..

      Report Post »  
    • naed5048
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 3:02am

      need to send him a message…..do not back down ..I hope there’s no trueth to it

      Report Post »  
    • Chrono_Sleuth
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 5:12am

      For everyone that has been saying he’s caving, did you not pay attention to this post:

      thepatriotdave
      Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:50pm

      “Some of you have never played Poker have you? Walker is NOT caving.

      If you have been following the arguing in Madison, you would know that it’s the bennies and retirement packages thats killing the state, not the salaries. It‘s the same thing that’s killing most states that are heavily Unionized. If the Dems don’t accept this deal, then the 1,500 layoffs will be on their hands.

      Hey Union people… what good is your retirement package if you are unemployed?”

      He has given up almost nothing, snips and bits, not the real package they want. Remember much like Social Security, union benefits have you paying in X in your paycheck each year, as you work towards retirement you get paid more, you put more into the pool, but it is never close to the full paycheck. Then when you actually get your benefit check after retirement, it is the same amount as the average of your final two paychecks, which are typically the highest paychecks. By year five of retirement you have just run out of the benefits you paid in should you have been working for 20-25 years. Everything after that is pure taxpayer money that you are paid for the rest of your life. Oh, and government workers tend to retire early.

      I know you all know that, and I’m not even touching on the other retirement benefits, such as full medical coverage for you and your family for as long as you and your spouse live, and your children are up to X age (whatever the union contract allows, 18, 21, 26? I would guess 21 is most likely). Let’s not forget said medical benefits packages are well above the line drawn for “cadillac” plans, and once you retire, you aren’t paying into it.

      Let’s not forget teachers who are in the union, but not actually working. They get “retirement benefit” equivalents in some states; not sure about WI, but given it is the bedrock foundation of the progressive movement, it’s a good bet they do.

      So basically you’re axing him for giving them what amounts to a penny per dollar as a way to coax at least one democrat back. Remember, they need one to come back, just one, and he hasn‘t come close to giving up anything that’s actually important. So before knocking him, why not consider this?

      Report Post » Chrono_Sleuth  
    • BecksTheMan
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 6:03am

      ENCINOM, JZS,

      Both of you are horses asses, or are you just one person along with ABC as that is one of the tricks the left is always pulling off. Get your facts straight and stop spreading the propaganda and lies that you have been so clearly deceived by and views that are shared by only a puny few of other brainwashed and foolish minds. Your opinion(s) is nothing but the foolish daydreams and imaginations of the small minded and deranged tyrants. Look at the wackiness, hate and stupidity of those who share your childish views: Barney Frank, Sheila Jackson Lee, Nancy Pelosi, Howard Dean, Jimmy(peanut brain) Carter, Harry Reid, Barrack Marxist Obama, Alan Grayson, and Congressman Hank (Guam will capsize) Johnson.

      Each has the communist, spread the wealth around, big government philosophy and many the moral fiber of a John Edwards or Charlie Rangel.

      Report Post »  
    • Nalea
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 6:24am

      Walker has 3 squishy Republicans that may not vote yes on collective bargaining if it’s stripped out of the bill and voted on separately. He’s trying to slightly compromise because they are putting pressure on him. He’s up against some on his own side who are caving. Apparently they have been intimidated. You’re only as strong as your weakest “man” so to speak. In order to do this right, you have to have unwavering cohesiveness.

      Report Post »  
    • avenger
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 6:27am

      looks like another frigging rino….this shet has to stop !

      Report Post »  
    • BSdetector
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 7:24am

      Wow, I thought this guy was the real deal… How disappointing.

      Report Post » BSdetector  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 9:20am

      All Walker needs to do is what Daniels did in Indiana years ago. That would end the union crying and get the Democrats to quit hiding like little children.

      “Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels is backing a bill that would restrict teachers’ rights to negotiate much beyond the area of wages as part of an education-reform package.

      He’s already abolished collective bargaining for state employees with an executive order issued when he took office in 2005.”

      The Governor in Michigan is just doing it with stealth tactics. with his (Emergency fiscal manager law] so when a city or school district gets themselves in fiscal trouble the state law allows for state takeover of cities in fiscal emergency to also include school districts. Some see Detroit Public Schools and its large employee unions as the target of such a bill because a manager appointed by the state to oversee a district in fiscal emergency would have the power to revoke or modify any collective-bargaining agreements. Once collective bargaining is gone, it’s gone.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • Class2000Generation
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 9:30am

      @ montanamadman

      I feel sick to my stomach.. and angry. I rallied for him before and after election. I stood up for himand have gotten bullied by my liberal friends — and now he caves?? I’ve emailed him several times to applaud his stand against the unions – have passed on his info to other supporters so they can show him that we stand with him. He needs to stand up for the people who voted him into office and finish what he started. Why let the spoiled democrats get their way?? I sure don’t cave into my toddler everytime – anytim – she throws a fit.
      I am so angry.

      Report Post » Class2000Generation  
    • joey g
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 9:50am

      i am so glad i don’t live in a state like wis that is now run by teacher unions

      walker should never have started this if he was going to cave to the commie thugs…

      Report Post » joey g  
    • Class2000Generation
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 9:53am

      @ encinom

      “The Tea-Party has proven itself to be a DC insider backed group created to protect the interests of the Koch brothers.”
      ***Could you provide the proof, sir? I’d love to see it.

      “When real Americans saw the options, they decided to stand with their fellow Americans and not with the billionaires looking to strip rights.”
      ***To me, real Americans are the hard-working citizens who make an honest living and provide for themselves and their familites based on their work ethic and merit. I work my a$$ off as a single parent – I don’t ask or demand that I get government help. I’d rather have my hard-earned money coming back to me instead of someone else’s pension fund — especially since I can’t even think about starting my own 401K. But I will get past this – because I’m a hard worker and I have the work ethic and the desire to provide more for my family. THAT is what a REAL American is – ‘pursuit of happiness’. It’s not a God-given right.

      Report Post » Class2000Generation  
    • encinom
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:10am

      @Class2000Generation

      First the pension was funded fully by the state workers, the reason why government workers earn less than their private counter parts is that they differ some of their compensation to pensions, compare public lawyers to private, look at what some one with a Masters degree makes in the private field vs. the Public.

      Second, you need to thank every union worker you see, it is because of the stands that they took, the blood they lost that the American worker has a safe work environment, has vaction and sick time and over time pay.

      The Tea-Party union bashing only serves the true puppet masters, the Koch brothers and the DC insiders behind the tea-party.

      Report Post »  
    • sleazyhippo
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:11am

      …Lets see what happens next, there are recall petitions against 16 congress members, The strongest 8 recall campaigns are against Republicans and are Grass Roots campaigns according to filing records. The other 8 are against Democrats, all funded by Americans for Prosperity of Wisconsin, with special funding by the Koch foundation. The WI citizenry cannot recall an elected Governor until they have served 12 months in office. A year from now this might be a different looking Congress…

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • BCNU
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:14am

      US Constitution, Article IV, Section IV
      The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a REPUBLICAN Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.

      Report Post »  
    • imareader
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:20am

      ..When I first read this,I thought I was going to be sick..but maybe, this Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article holds the secret:
      March 8, 2011 Madison:
      ..”Fitzgerald Tuesday repeated Republicans’ position that the budget-repair bill must pass in its current form since the Assembly – led by his brother, Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald (R-Horicon) – has already taken a vote on it. The changes would have to be made by the Legislature’s budget committee when it takes up the 2011-’13 budget bill, he said.”

      {So if I’m understanding this correctly… if the Dems come back, it passes as is.They’d agree to revisit it in a Senate committee at a later time..Round 2 would then begin, but in the meantime, the law of the land would be 100% of what we wanted.}

      Report Post »  
    • sleazyhippo
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:26am

      What is Not to like?
      “Increased contributions for health insurance and pension, projected to save the state $330 million by mid-2013, would remain. The unions and Democrats have agreed to those concessions to help balance a projected $3.6 billion budget shortfall.”
      This is a Major Scott Walker success, and collective bargaining rights would provide a Win/Win/Win for the State, Employees, and Taxpayers.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • Class2000Generation
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:30am

      Interesting read — take a look…

      http://newswithviews.com/Devvy/kidd486.htm

      Report Post » Class2000Generation  
    • Bum thrower
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:36am

      Too bad; your taxes will keep going UP, and the usions will keep getting fatter and fatter pay checks; Recall some of the Dem Senators; all you need is to get one up!!

      DON’T CAVE, damn it!!

      Report Post »  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:47am

      sleazyhippo

      Get your FACTS straight. The recall petitions against Republicans are being generated by the Democrat Party of Wisconsin. That is NOT a grassroots movement, it is being generated by Union Money.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • jzs
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 11:00am

      hifi74, does this help me look less like a mouthpeice and fool? The article gives the numbers for several polls of Wisconsin resident, some by conservative pollsters. The majority of people in Wisconsin favor public workers having collective bargaining rights.

      http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_2f5a068e-4466-11e0-bb67-001cc4c03286.html

      Report Post » jzs  
    • tradexpertbuysell
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 11:00am

      If I were Walker I would do what he did but with a different strategy:

      Say anything to get the Democrats to come back into the state and then WHHHHHHHHHAMMMM!

      Put them in chains haull them to the capitol under armed guards and have the vote.

      Then let them know that I disrespect them sooooooooooo much for leaving the state that betrayal became an option then with a big grin on video ask them “HOW DOES IT FEEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

      Report Post »  
    • jblaze
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:57pm

      Where is the Tea Party on this?? They have been very quiet! Give the man some support!

      Report Post » jblaze  
    • Rearden Steel
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 1:03pm

      Don’t give in!!! If you give in once, you’ll have to give in every time!!!

      I really had hope for him that he’d hold his ground. That’s what I get for having hope in a politician.

      Report Post »  
    • IAMMADDOG
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 1:41pm

      @ ENICINOM

      I am from Wisconsin and you my friend are full of SH**. The public sector FAR OUTEARNS the private sector. AND no their pension was/is NOT fully funded by public employees. All these are LIES. The whole thing is about the unions losing their power and the Dems losing their cash cow. THAT IS IT. Any other explanation is bullsh**. Also…Most of the people here are NOT against him, that is more bullsh**. But what do you expect from the lazy azz money grubbing losers we here call liberals? Most of the people you saw at the protests….WERE NOT EVEN FROM WISCONSIN. So you guys keep thinking you know it all….we shall see.

      Report Post »  
    • realindependent
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 2:03pm

      Finally the GOP/KOCH brothers plan to break the Unions has failed. Now maybe they can stop attacking teacher firefighters and cops. How about putting some of those bankers that caused this mess on trial and send them to prison and actually do what this country needs to tackle the 14 trillion dollar deficit. rasie the taxes on the wealthy of us, Yes lower the state workers wages that make the big dollars, not teacher firefighters and cops. cut government waste including pentagon and no bid contracts. and save this country. you cant get rid of the deficit by just cutting intitlement and public employee’s pay. you must do it all….

      Report Post » realindependent  
    • realindependent
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 2:07pm

      Even the right wing rassmussan polls shows wisconsonites disapprove of governor walkers plan to strip collective bargaining.
      http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_state_surveys/wisconsin/wisconsin_poll_support_for_budget_cutting_not_for_weakening_collective_bargaining_rights

      Report Post » realindependent  
    • Miguelito
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 3:09pm

      Give in to a terrorist and see what you get…we are doomed! And that’s the bright/positive side!

      Report Post »  
    • sleazyhippo
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 3:25pm

      BLACKHAWK1
      You are right – my Bad – here is a quote from today’s Wall Street Journal a fair news document –
      “In Wisconsin, recall efforts are gaining steam with the help of groups from outside the state. Eight Republican and six Democratic senators have been targeted for recall. Nationwide liberal groups Progressive Change Campaign Committee, based in Washington, and Democracy for America, based in Vermont, have raised more than $500,000 online in the past week.
      The groups are using the money to pay for television ads targeting Republican senators Randy Hopper in Green Bay, Dan Kapanke in La Crosse and Alberta Darling in Milwaukee.
      The senators appear to be vulnerable to recall because they won their districts by relatively narrow margins, and President Barack Obama carried all three districts, in two cases with 51% of the vote, the groups said.
      Ms. Darling said she would support changes outlined in the governor’s emails, but the recall campaign “is not intimidating me,” she said. “From my perspective, I’m representing my district.”
      In Green Bay, David Vander Leest, a wind-farm developer organizing a recall effort against Democrat Dave Hansen, said a meeting last weekend drew 400 volunteers while 400 protesters lined up outside to demonstrate against the effort. “It’s become like a presidential election,” Mr. Vander Leest said. “It‘s got everybody that much more heated up because it’s touching people in the pocketbook.”
      Ken Goldstein, a professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, said, “The state is phenomenally polarized. Democrats are lined up in lockstep against the governor, Republicans are lined up in lockstep behind him.”
      Graeme Zielinski, a spokesman for the Wisconsin Democratic Party, said activists had 20% of the signatures needed in one district and 25% of those needed in another. Mr. Zielinski declined to identify the senators, saying “We’d like to keep them guessing.”
      Politicians who have been in office for at least one year can be recalled. Organizers say thousands of volunteers have collected tens of thousands of signatures on both sides.
      The recall committees have 60 days to collect signatures in districts equal to 25% of the votes cast there in the last gubernatorial election. A recall election would then be held six weeks later between the senator and a candidate who gathered 400 signatures.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • Bluebonnet
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 3:55pm

      He’s gone through the hardest part, why is he caving now? Well, as for me, I’m gonna believe this is a ploy to get the disgusting 14 back in state, then get tough. Please Gov. Walker, don‘t let down all the people who’ve been supporting you by caving. Stand firm with the bad folks. We’re the good ones.

      Report Post »  
    • Bluebonnet
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 4:00pm

      P.S. If you cave in now, you‘re rewarding the bad teachers by letting them continue teaching when they’re not capable of good skills, you’re rewarding the Union by giving in to their unreasonable demands.
      Think about it. Plus, you’re letting down all the people in Wisconsin who are tired of paying out for teachers demands when in truth, they don’t deserve any more than a job with good pay.

      Report Post »  
    • Progessives=Fail
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 4:49pm

      @ CatB, Done.

      I can’t believe he is going to reward their drum circles and temper tantrums. So even when conservatives win the majority the Liberals somehow circumvent majority rule, wonderful….
      This is going to set a bad precident.

      Report Post » Progessives=Fail  
    • Theleftisda
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 8:23pm

      By SCOTT BAUER, Associated Press Scott Bauer, Associated Press – 1 min ago
      MADISON, Wis. – Republicans in the Wisconsin Senate voted Wednesday night to strip nearly all collective bargaining rights from public workers after discovering a way to bypass the chamber’s missing Democrats.

      HAHAHA!! done deal baby
      you lowlife dems can stay in ILL
      your not needed

      Report Post » Theleftisda  
    • A Doctors Labor Is Not My Right
      Posted on March 9, 2011 at 9:57pm

      @encinom,

      “Its funny to read the comments, from A Doctor’s Labor and others, during the tea-party riots over health care, the battle cry was, Obama is not listening to the people.”

      I believe what was said was that Obama didn’t argue the points the Republicans were making regarding the unConstitutionality of Obamacare. He instead changed the subject, claiming that they should just focus on what they DO agree on.

      In Walker’s case, he did respond to the request for negotiations by saying he didn’t have anything to bargain with. And when the Unions came back and said they’d concede on everything but collective bargaining, the argument was that the Unions would just bring the state back into debt some time in the future.

      As it is, though, public sector Unions are unConstitutional because there is a separation of powers. Unions attempt to force a Democracy upon a Republic. Democracies don’t result in freedom for the people, by the way; Instead, they result in majority rule, such that unalienable rights are not recognized.

      “Now that the tea-party approved Governor, lost the public (look at all the polls, even Fox can not deny Walker‘s number’s have tanked), the rally cry is to ignore the protestors.”

      The protesters weren’t ignored; The reason why ending collective bargaining for benefits (needed to be for anything) was off the table, was argued by Walker. The protesters would have had a point if they wanted to argue the Constitutionality of public Unions and collective bargaining, but instead they wanted to negotiate.

      “The Tea-Party has proven itself to be a DC insider backed group created to protect the interests of the Koch brothers. When real Americans saw the options, they decided to stand with their fellow Americans and not with the billionaires looking to strip rights.”

      Well, insomuch as DC is [supposed to be] committed to the Constitution, they‘re naturally going to back everyone’s right to keep what they earn, and to become as rich as they want without violating the unalienable rights of others.

      You make a false dichotomy between “fellow Americans” and “billionairs”, as if the rich shouldn’t also get to keep what they earn. That is an economy busting philosophy because it’s a disincentive to production, and it is actually increased production that makes things cheaper.

      See here.

      Stossel Show – The Tragedy Of The Commons! (Part 1/4)
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tlVHAr_02c

      Report Post »  
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