Press Release Archives

View By: [Date] Category

May 21, 2008 DPW Chairman Joe Wineke statement on Rep. Terry Musser DPW Chairman Joe Wineke statement on Rep. Terry Musser Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke released the following statement today on Rep. Terry Musser’s announcement that he will not seek re-election. “Last year, Terry Musser broke from... more...
May 21, 2008 This Memorial Day, Wisconsin Drivers Can Thank John Gard for his Vote to Raise the Gas Tax This Memorial Day, Wisconsin Drivers Can Thank John Gard for his Vote to Raise the Gas Tax Congress Overwhelmingly Passes Dr. Kagen’s Bipartisan Bill to Hold OPEC and Big Oil Accountable for Price Fixing With Wisconsin families and businesses... more...
May 16, 2008 GOP Gathers to Celebrate Proven Record of Failure GOP Gathers to Celebrate Proven Record of Failure This weekend, the Wisconsin Republican Party is gathering in Stevens Point to celebrate the GOP’s proven record of failure on everything from health care to Iraq to the economy. High points include standing in the... more...
May 1, 2008 Five Years After “Mission Accomplished,” John McCain is “Fine” With 100 More Five Years After “ Mission Accomplished,” John McCain is “Fine” With 100 More Five years ago today, President Bush landed on the deck of the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln and declared that “major combat operations in Iraq have ended” in front of an enormous banner that read,... more...
Apr 28, 2008 New TV Ad Puts Focus on McCain's Promise to Keep Wisconsin's Troops in Iraq for 100 Years New TV Ad Puts Focus on McCain's Promise to Keep Wisconsin 's Troops in Iraq for 100 Years Washington , DC- A new television ad focused on the fact John McCain would be "fine" keeping our troops in Iraq for 100 years will begin airing in... more...
Apr 25, 2008 Eight Reasons John Gard is Still too Extreme for Northeastern Wisconsin Eight Reasons John Gard is Still too Extreme for Northeastern Wisconsin The People of Wisconsin ’s 8 th Congressional District Deserve Better Than Professional Politician John Gard John Gard missed the message in 2006. Voters rejected Gard because rather than... more...
Apr 23, 2008 New TV Ad Highlights How Out of Touch John McCain is With Wisconsinites On the Economy ? more...
Apr 16, 2008 McCain Brings His Out of Touch Economic Policies to Wisconsin McCain Brings His Out of Touch Economic Policies to Wisconsin After many shifts in rhetoric, John McCain gave yet another “major policy address” on the economy yesterday in Pittsburg . But as he brings his out of touch policies to Wisconsin today, it remains clear that... more...
Apr 8, 2008 Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Calls on McCain to Show Responsibility and Offer Plan for Iraq Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Calls on McCain to Show Responsibility and Offer Plan for Iraq Even as rockets exploded in the so-called "Green Zone" yesterday in Baghdad , John McCain chose to launch another round of irresponsible political attacks rather than offer a... more...
Apr 7, 2008 Hundreds of Wisconsin Democrats Turnout at County Caucuses Hundreds of Wisconsin Democrats Turnout at County Caucuses Over 1600 Activists Caucus Across Wisconsin as part of Delegate Selection for National Convention This Sunday, over 1600 Democrats participated in caucuses held in every county of Wisconsin... more...
Mar 31, 2008 McCain Can Try to Reinvent Himself, But Wisconsinites Aren’t Buying It McCain Can Try to Reinvent Himself, But Wisconsinites Aren’t Buying It This morning, John McCain launches his effort to reinvent himself for the general election with a week of speeches. After running as a so-called "maverick" and "outsider" in his failed 2000... more...
Mar 27, 2008 Wisconsinites Want to Know: What’s McCain’s Plan for Iraq? Wisconsinites Want to Know: What’s McCain’s Plan for Iraq ? For the second day in a row, John McCain delivered what was billed as a “major policy speech” yesterday, but included no new policies, proposals or ideas. After telling us... more...
Mar 25, 2008 John McCain Has No Plan to Help Wisconsin Families Hit By the Mortgage Crisis John McCain Has No Plan to Help Wisconsin Families Hit By the Mortgage Crisis On the same day one leading indicator showed home values dropping 11 percent in January compared to a year before, Republican nominee-in-waiting John McCain gave a speech yesterday addressing the... more...
Mar 24, 2008 McCain "Debates" Confirm Wisconsinites Can't Trust John McCain McCain "Debates" Confirm Wisconsinites Can't Trust John McCain American People Lose With McCain's Promise of Third Bush Term Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke today welcomed a new series of debates featuring Senator John McCain,... more...
Mar 19, 2008 Five Years Too Many in Iraq, John McCain Would Make it 100 Five Years Too Many in Iraq , John McCain Would Make it 100 Today is the fifth anniversary of the start of the Iraq war. “Today marks the solemn anniversary of an ill-conceived and mismanaged war – one that has taken the lives... more...
Mar 14, 2008 John McCain Chooses Campaign Cash Over Wisconsin’s Families John McCain Chooses Campaign Cash Over Wisconsin ’s Families Today on the campaign trail, John McCain promised to help law enforcement officials combat crime, help retrain displaced workers, and end the long lines at the Veterans Administration facilities. But... more...
Mar 13, 2008 DPW Chairman Joe Wineke Statement on Compassionate Care Bill DPW Chairman Joe Wineke Statement on Compassionate Care Bill Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke released the following statement today, after Governor Doyle signed the Compassionate Care Bill into law. “I’m very pleased to see the... more...
Mar 12, 2008 Wisconsin Activists Run to be Delegate to Democratic National Convention Wisconsin Activists Run to be Delegate to Democratic National Convention Democrats to Hold Caucuses in Every County of State Delegate selection is in full swing for the Democratic National Convention. Local Democrats are now organizing county... more...
Mar 11, 2008 John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Social Security John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Social Security President Bush Endorses John McCain as His Successor Washington , DC –Hours after clinching his Party’s nomination last week, the one-time “maverick” completed his... more...
Mar 11, 2008 John McCain: Standing up For Lobbyist Friends Instead of Wisconsin's Families John McCain: Standing up For Lobbyist Friends Instead of Wisconsin 's Families Washington DC - While Democrats in Congress fight for a budget that will help American families in this struggling economy and help displaced workers find new jobs, John McCain put his... more...
Mar 10, 2008 John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Health Care John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Health Care President Bush Endorses John McCain as His Successor Washington , DC –Hours after clinching his Party’s nomination last week, the one-time “maverick” completed his transformation... more...
Mar 7, 2008 John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Iraq John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on Iraq President Bush Endorses John McCain as His Successor Washington , DC –Hours after clinching his Party’s nomination this week, the one-time “maverick” completed his... more...
Mar 6, 2008 John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on the Economy John McCain Promises Wisconsin Families a Third Bush Term on the Economy President Bush Endorses John McCain as His Successor Washington , DC –Hours after clinching his Party’s nomination this week, the one-time “maverick” completed his... more...
Feb 27, 2008 DPW Chairman Endorses Lena Taylor for County Executive DPW Chairman Endorses Lena Taylor for County Executive Milwaukee — Today Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke endorsed Senator Lena Taylor for Milwaukee County Executive. “Senator Taylor has been a tireless advocate for Milwaukee... more...
Feb 26, 2008 FEC Case Highlights McCain's Hypocrisy FEC Case Highlights McCain's Hypocrisy DNC Release of 2003 FEC Letter Proves McCain Defense Not Truthful Madison - After trying to portray himself as a "maverick" who would reform Washington , John McCain is now trying to illegally withdraw from the very... more...
Feb 26, 2008 DPW Statement on 2004 Election Report DPW Statement on 2004 Election Report Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke released the following statement today regarding the Milwaukee Police Department’s report on the 2004 elections: “This report shows opportunity for improvements in the... more...
Feb 20, 2008 Preliminary Wisconsin Democratic Delegate Count Preliminary Wisconsin Democratic Delegate Count Based on return numbers yesterday, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin is reporting preliminary pledged delegate count from the Democratic primary. The DPW will report official delegate counts when the Government... more...
Feb 13, 2008 Despite John McCain Missing the Vote, 2.6 Million in Wisconsin To Get Relief From Economic Stimulus Package Despite John McCain Missing the Vote, 2.6 Million in Wisconsin To Get Relief From Economic Stimulus Package Madison - The signing today of the bipartisan economic stimulus bill means that 2.6 million families in Wisconsin will receive tax rebates of up to... more...
Feb 11, 2008 Statement on Passing of Marlys Matuszak, Information on Memorial Service Statement on Passing of Marlys Matuszak, Information on Memorial Service Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke released the following statement today on the passing of longtime party activist Marlys Matuszak. Please see below for information on the memorial service.... more...
Feb 7, 2008 Hundreds of Wisconsinites to run for National Convention Delegate Hundreds of Wisconsinites to run for National Convention Delegate DPW Holds Delegate Trainings in Communities Across the State As the presidential primaries sweep across the country, Wisconsin ’s delegate selection process continues. Over the next... more...
Jan 29, 2008 DPW Statement on State of the Union Address DPW Statement on State of the Union Address Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke released the following statement today, in response to President Bush’s State of the Union address last night: “Despite his best efforts, President Bush cannot... more...
Jan 23, 2008 Republicans Stand With Bush to Deny Health Care for Children Republicans Stand With Bush to Deny Health Care for Children Wisconsin’s Reps. Paul Ryan, James Sensenbrenner vote with President Today, Democrats in Congress stood together to support the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), and... more...
Jan 23, 2008 DPW Statement on Governor’s State of the State Address DPW Statement on Governor’s State of the State Address MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement tonight after Governor Jim Doyle’s annual State of the State Address: “Tonight, Governor Doyle offered... more...
Jan 21, 2008 Wineke Statement on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Wineke Statement on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke issued the following statement today, in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: “Today we honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.... more...
Jan 16, 2008 DPW Begins Delegate Selection for National Convention DPW Begins Delegate Selection for National Convention Hundreds of Democrats Around Wisconsin To Run for Delegate As the excitement of Democratic presidential primaries sweeps across the country, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin (DPW)... more...
Nov 5, 2007 With One Year to Go, Wisconsin Democrats Hold House Parties Launching National Neighborhood Leader Program With One Year to Go, Wisconsin Democrats Hold House Parties Launching National Neighborhood Leader Program Democratic Party Chair of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke today announced that Democratic activists across the state are gathering for nearly... more...
Oct 12, 2007 Democrats Tout Successful Eleanor Roosevelt Tribute Democrats Tout Successful Eleanor Roosevelt Tribute Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton Hosts Event to Celebrate, Empower Democratic Women Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton welcomed Democrats from around the state last night as host of the Democratic Party's annual Eleanor Roosevelt... more...
Oct 8, 2007 Republicans Continue Stall Tactics, Inaction on State Budget Republicans Continue Stall Tactics, Inaction on State Budget Was GOP Ever Serious About Passing a Budget? Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke today condemned Republicans continued stall tactics in the state budget process. ... more...
Jul 19, 2007 Republican Assembly Budget Devastates Wisconsin’s Schools Rep. Brett Davis and his Assembly colleagues passed a state budget last week that would cut schools by $127 million statewide, and by over $2 million in Davis’ own district. Drastic cuts to public schools are only more...
Jul 17, 2007 GOP Legislators Stand Behind President, Refuse to Change Course in Iraq As President Bush continues his stubborn and inexplicable refusal to face the facts about the war, Republican legislators are standing behind him yet again this week, hoping to more...
Jun 21, 2007 President Bush Denies Hope to Millions with Stem Cell Veto Yesterday, with one stroke of his veto pen, President Bush denied hope to Wisconsinites and millions of other Americans by vetoing critical legislation to expand federal funding of more...
Jun 13, 2007 Democrats Take the Lead on Energy Policy Democrats in the U.S. Senate introduced new energy policy this week, working towards real solutions for soaring gas prices. “Working families are paying record-high gas prices going into more...
Jun 11, 2007 Democrats Take the Lead on Stem Cell Research Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives sent the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act to the president’s desk, a bill that would expand stem cell research and provide hope to millions of more...
Jun 5, 2007 Republicans Continue War Against Women Republican leadership is busy working against women this week, hoping to pass a new abortion ban and deny women access to birth control, even for more...
Aug 24, 2006 If it isn’t broken, then don’t fix it! The only issue my opponent has come up with is to put Wisconsin’s elections under the control of the secretary of state. more...
Aug 21, 2006 Wineke Column: 10 Years is too Long While Working Families Struggle to Make Ends Meet, Mark Green and Republicans in Washington Block Increase in Federal Minimum Wage more...
Aug 17, 2006 Governor Doyle Thanks Board of Regents for Holding Down Tuition at UW System Governor Doyle today thanked the Board of Regents for answering his call to develop a 2007-09 biennial budget request that holds down tuition at the University of Wisconsin System so that it does not rise faster than inflation. more...
Aug 16, 2006 Wineke Column: Governor Doyle Balances Budget, Restores Fiscal Discipline to Wisconsin Meanwhile, Mark Green Votes for Bush Budgets That Rack Up Largest Federal Deficits Ever, Votes to Raise National Debt Limit to $10 Trillion more...
Jul 21, 2006 Wineke Column: President, Green Turn Backs on Promise of Stem Cell Research to Save Lives, Cure Disease This past week will go down in American history as a missed opportunity. more...
Jul 17, 2006 Why Won’t Mark Green Urge Congress to Pass Stem Cell Research Bill? Extreme Green Out of Step with Vast Majority of Wisconsin Families… and Even GOP Mainstream … Who Support Research’s Promise more...
Jul 7, 2006 The Million Dollar Question - Day 3: Mark Green: Do You Think George W. Bush Has Doon a Good Job as President? MADISON – For two days in a row we've been asking Mark Green the same thing: do you think George Bush has done a good job as president? more...
Jun 8, 2006 Wineke, Shilling Highlight Importance Category: Politics
Wineke, Shilling Highlight Importance of Re-Electing Governor Doyle, Electing Democrats This November Doyle, Democrats are Fighting for Middle Class Families – While Green, Republicans are Pushing Extreme Agenda for the Special Interests LA CROSSE – It is critically... more...
Jun 2, 2006 Question: Mark Green, Category: Crime and Justice
Question: Mark Green, Would You Pardon Scott Jensen? Green’s Answer: ‘Um, Er, Ahh …’ MADISON – Would you pardon Scott Jensen? Given that Jensen – the poster child for political corruption – was convicted of three felonies and a misdemeanor for abusing the public’s... more...
Jun 1, 2006 Green’s Big Idea for Law Enforcement: Category: Strong Communities
Green’s Big Idea for Law Enforcement: Concealed Weapons On Our Playgrounds … And Fewer Cops on the Streets MADISON – Mark Green’s out and about touting his “record” on law enforcement today. Not that he’s done very much law enforcing while sitting behind a desk in Washington... more...
May 31, 2006 Green Sides With Big Drug Companies Over Green Sides With Big Drug Companies Over Families Struggling to Afford Medications MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said today that the people of Wisconsin should be alarmed about Mark Green’s record of siding with the big drug companies over working and middle... more...
May 29, 2006 DPW Statement Honoring Memorial Day DPW Statement Honoring Memorial Day MADISON - Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today commemorating Memorial Day: "America pauses today to honor all of our servicemen and women - past and present - who have sacrificed their lives so that we... more...
May 29, 2006 37 Million Expected to 37 Million Expected to Travel This Memorial Day And Gas Prices Are Sky High Thanks to Mark Green and His Big Oil Cronies MADISON – As millions of Americans pay for record-high gas prices this Memorial Day weekend, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said Wisconsin... more...
May 18, 2006 Mark Green Sticks it to Wisconsin's Middle Class Families Once Again Category: Spending & Taxes
MADISON – Mark Green has stuck it to Wisconsin’s middle class families once again. more...
May 10, 2006 George W. Bush: How Low Can He Go? MADISON – President George W. Bush continues his slide in the polls as his overall job approval rating hit another new low of 31 percent, according to the latest New York Times/CBS News poll. Republicans in Washington, including Mark Green, continue to fare even worse, as just 23 percent approve... more...
May 6, 2006 Statement from Governor Doyle on the Passing of Ruth Bachhuber Doyle Saturday, May 6, 2006 At about 5:30 this morning, Ruth Bachhuber Doyle passed after a long battle with Parkinson's disease at the age of 89. Governor Jim Doyle released the following statement. "God blessed me and our family with an extraordinary mother. In her public life, she... more...
Apr 28, 2006 Mark Green: Stop Being Mean to Big Oil! Category: Economy
Votes Against Rolling Back Billions in Big Tax Breaks for Big Oil Last night, Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives offered a motion that would have rolled back $5 billion in tax breaks to the big oil companies. With prices at the gas pump sky high, it was the right thing to do.... more...
Apr 14, 2006 Dear fellow Democrat, Category: Politics
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the Founders' Day Gala in Milwaukee last weekend. The event was a HUGE success because of your support. For those of you who were unable to make it to the event, I'm very pleased to inform you that the entire speaking program has been posted on... more...
Apr 12, 2006 Kohl Announces Campaign Coordinators In Each of Wisconsin's 72 Counties Statewide Network to Mobilize Support at the Grassroots Milwaukee – The Herb Kohl for U.S. Senate campaign unveiled today its statewide network of county coordinators dedicated to reelecting Herb Kohl. The grassroots program features a leader in each of Wisconsin’s 72... more...
Mar 23, 2006 Mark Green Brings Top Bush Lieutenant to Wisconsin to Prop Up Campaign for Governor Category: Politics
MADISON – In the last two weeks, two of President Bush’s top lieutenants have been in Wisconsin raising campaign cash for Republicans and spending political capital to prop up Mark Green’s campaign for Governor. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said today that the visits by top... more...
Mar 22, 2006 Watch Senator Feingold TONIGHT on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” Category: Politics
Senator Russ Feingold will appear tonight on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” The show will air at 10:00 p.m. Central Time, and will be rebroadcast two hours later. It will also air tomorrow at 7:00 p.m. CT. Tune in to see Russ! more...
Mar 22, 2006 Republicans mentioned in Jensen trial Category: Crime and Justice
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Scott Jensen used to be Assembly Republicans' leader. Now Democrats hope his GOP colleagues suffer in November because of him. By The Associated Press, State Wire The names of about two dozen Republicans and their operatives surfaced during testimony in state Rep. Scott... more
Mar 17, 2006 Statement by Democratic Party Chair on 3rd Anniversary of War in Iraq Category: Foreign Policy
Statement by Democratic Party Chair on 3rd Anniversary of War in Iraq MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today regarding the third anniversary this weekend of the start of the war in Iraq – a conflict that has claimed more than 2,300... more...
Mar 16, 2006 John Gard Raises Campaign Cash from Special Interests, Corrupt GOP Leaders in Washington Category: Politics
MADISON – Republican Congressional Candidate John Gard is once again showing the people of Wisconsin that he has no interest in joining Democrats in ending the GOP culture of corruption in Washington, as he raises campaign cash at a high-dollar fundraiser in D.C. tonight. more...
Mar 16, 2006 John Gard Raises Campaign Cash from Special Interests, Corrupt GOP Leaders in Washington Category: Politics
MADISON – Republican Congressional Candidate John Gard is once again showing the people of Wisconsin that he has no interest in joining Democrats in ending the GOP culture of corruption in Washington, as he raises campaign cash at a high-dollar fundraiser in D.C. tonight. more...
Mar 16, 2006 DPW Shines ‘Bright Spotlight’ on Green’s Shady Ethics Category: Politics
MADISON – In response to Congressman Mark Green’s posturing on lobby reform today, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said Green still must answer serious questions that have been raised about his ethics and conduct in Congress, including his ties to convicted GOP lobbyist Jack... more...
Mar 15, 2006 Tom Reynolds Turns His Back on Wisconsin Troops West Allis Senator Joins GOP Leaders in Defeating Efforts to Provide Proper Body Armor for Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers Category: Homeland Defense
MADISON – Republican Senator Tom Reynolds (R-West Allis) turned his back on Wisconsin troops last week by blocking a bipartisan bill that would have provided adequate, up-to-date body armor for Wisconsin National Guard and Reserve troops called to active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. By... more...
Mar 13, 2006 Ron Brown, Dave Zien Turn Their Backs on Wisconsin Troops Category: Homeland Defense
MADISON – Eau Claire area Republican Senators Ron Brown and Dave Zien turned their backs on Wisconsin troops last week by blocking a bipartisan bill that would have provided adequate, up-to-date body armor for Wisconsin National Guard and Reserve troops called to active duty in Iraq and... more...
Mar 13, 2006 Wisconsin Voters Can’t Trust John Gard to Guard Ethics GOP Congressional Candidate Raises Campaign Cash from Ethically Challenged Vice President Category: Politics
MADISON – Republican Congressional Candidate John Gard today sent the people of Wisconsin a very powerful message. By accepting thousands of dollars from scandal-plagued Vice President Dick Cheney's special interest friends at a $500-per-plate fundraiser in Lawrence, Wisconsin today, Gard showed... more...
Mar 11, 2006 Statement on the Jensen Conviction Category: Crime and Justice
MADISON – Michael Murphy, Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, released the following statement today after a Dane County jury convicted former Republican Assembly Speaker Scott Jensen of three felonies and one misdemeanor for directing legislative staffers to illegally... more...
Mar 9, 2006 Democratic Party State Chair to Discuss ‘Democratic Difference’ in Green Bay Category: Politics
MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke will discuss the “Democratic Difference” agenda at the Democratic Party of Brown County’s fundraising event, “American Revolution 2006,” on Thursday, March 9, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at the Riverside Ballroom in Green Bay. more...
Mar 9, 2006 Democratic Party State Chair to Host Roundtable With Sheboygan & Manitowoc Families Category: Strong Communities
MADISON – As part of his statewide tour to discuss the “Democratic Difference” for 2006 and beyond, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke will host a roundtable with Sheboygan and Manitowoc families on THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 2006 at 12:00 noon at the Mead Public Library in Sheboygan to... more...
Mar 3, 2006 Democrats to Host Unity Rally to Take Back the 8th Congressional District Category: Politics
MADISON – In response to Vice President Dick Cheney’s visit to Green Bay on March 13, local Democrats will host a unity rally to highlight the importance of taking back the 8th Congressional District and sending a Democrat to Washington who will fight for the values of Wisconsin families, not the... more...
Mar 2, 2006 Statement on Governor Doyle’s Leadership on Home Heating Help for Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today praised Governor Doyle for his leadership in working with Republicans and Democrats in the Legislature to pass a proposal that will provide $6 million in emergency home heating assistance for up to 40,000 Wisconsin families. The... more...
Mar 2, 2006 While Green Bankrupts Federal Government, Walker Bankrupts Milwaukee County Both GOP Candidates for Governor Have Track Records of Fiscal Mismanagement Category: Spending & Taxes
MADISON – While Congressman Mark Green has spent the last eight years in Washington, D.C. turning record surpluses into record deficits, Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker has spent the last four years bankrupting Milwaukee County. more...
Mar 1, 2006 Bush’s Approval Ratings Fall to All-Time Low Category: Politics
MADISON – President George W. Bush’s job approval rating has sunk to a new all-time low of 34 percent, as Americans are fed up with the President over his latest failures, including the port security fiasco and increasing violence in Iraq, according to a new CBS poll. President Bush is even... more...
Mar 1, 2006 Caucus Corruption Trial Star Witness Testifies About Illegal Campaigning of Schultz’s Office Category: Crime and Justice
‘According to Him, Not Enough,’ Witness Says When Asked Under Oath About What He Did for Schultz’s Campaign INDEPENDENCE – Senate Republican Majority Leader Dale Schultz had his legislative staff illegally campaign on state time, according to testimony by his former staffer during the... more...
Feb 28, 2006 Wineke: Mean-Spirited Amendment Discriminates Category: Civil Rights
GOP Promoting Hatred and Ignorance in Attempt to Gain Votes in November more...
Feb 28, 2006 Caucus Scandal Evidence Piles Up Against Mark Green Category: Crime and Justice
MADISON – New allegations regarding the illegal campaign activity of Mark Green and members of his staff continue to pile up, both in the ongoing caucus scandal trial of former GOP Assembly Speaker Scott Jensen, and in media reports. more...
Feb 28, 2006 Wineke: Mean-Spirited Amendment Discriminates GOP Promoting Hatred and Ignorance in Attempt to Gain Votes in November Category: Politics
MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today in advance of the expected vote by the Republican-run State Assembly to approve a constitutional amendment that would jeopardize existing legal protections for unmarried couples in Wisconsin, ban civil... more...
Feb 28, 2006 Stellmacher: Ban on Equal Rights a Black Mark on Wisconsin's History Category: Civil Rights
Stellmacher: Ban on Equal Rights a Black Mark on Wisconsin's History Amendment Would Be First in Wisconsin's History to Take Away Civil Rights Whitewater, WI- State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-Whitewater) today issued the following statement on Assembly Joint Resolution 67, the... more...
Feb 27, 2006 Did Green’s Legislative Staffer Take Part-Time Leave to Campaign Full-Time? Green Approved Several Leave Requests for Legislative Employee Today’s Testimony in Caucus Scandal Trial Shows State Employ Category: Crime and Justice
MADISON – Testimony in today’s caucus scandal trial that Republican caucus staffers only took part-time leave to campaign full-time on the state dime raises questions about whether Mark Green’s former legislative staffer and current campaign manager Mark Graul also engaged in the common practice... more...
Feb 24, 2006 Explosive Revelations About Green’s Illegal Activity Surface in Caucus Corruption Trial MADISON – In light of revelations today about the illegal activity of Mark Green and members of his staff in the caucus scandal, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today called on Green to come clean about his participation in and knowledge of illegal campaigning on state time that... more...
Feb 23, 2006 Democratic Party State Chair to Discuss Category: Strong Communities
Democratic Party State Chair to Discuss ‘Democratic Difference’ in Green Bay Wineke to Attend Monthly Meeting of the Brown County Democratic Party MADISON – As part of his statewide tour to discuss the “Democratic Difference” for 2006 and beyond, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe... more...
Feb 23, 2006 Green and Walker: What Did They Know, When Did They Know It? Green and Walker Dodge Questions About Ties to Caucus Scandal Category: Politics
MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today blasted Republican gubernatorial candidates Mark Green and Scott Walker for dodging reporters’ questions about their ties to the caucus scandal. For two straight days, Green has reportedly avoided answering reporters’ questions on... more...
Feb 21, 2006 Democratic Party State Chair to Host Roundtable with Appleton Families Category: Strong Communities
Wineke to Outline the Democratic Difference for 2006 and Beyond and What’s at Stake for the People of Wisconsin in This Year’s Elections MADISON – As part of his statewide tour to discuss the “Democratic Difference” for 2006 and beyond, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke... more...
Feb 20, 2006 Statement from Democratic Party State Category: Politics
Statement from Democratic Party State Chair on President Bush’s Visit to Wisconsin MADISON – Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today in response to President George W. Bush’s visit to Milwaukee: “It is ironic that President Bush is... more...
Feb 13, 2006 Wineke Column: The ‘Democratic Difference’ Means Progress for Wisconsin At the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, we share in the optimism that has always been the cornerstone of the Wisconsin Ideal. But we also share the real concerns about the direction of our country. more...
Feb 9, 2006 DPW Unveils the ‘Democratic Difference’ Category: Politics
MADISON – As Wisconsin Democrats gear up for the 2006 elections and beyond, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today unveiled the “Democratic Difference,” outlining how state Democrats are fighting for middle class families and why 2006 is such a critical election year. Democrats... more...
Feb 7, 2006 Memorial Service for Former U.S. Senator William Proxmire Set for Friday in Rotunda of State Capitol Governor Jim Doyle has announced the details of the memorial service for former U.S. Senator William Proxmire. The memorial service will be at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, February 10, 2006 in the Rotunda of the State Capitol. The service is open to the public. more...
Feb 4, 2006 Democrats Call On Green to Return $35,000 in Category: Politics
Green Votes Twice for New Republican House Majority Leader – Just As Scandalous As the Last MADISON – The Democratic Party of Wisconsin today called on Congressman Mark Green to return almost $35,000 in tainted campaign funds he took from the Abramoff-funded political action committee... more...
Feb 4, 2006 Reps. Krawczyk, Van Roy Ignore Category: Health Care
MADISON – Despite the urging of their Republican colleagues that the Legislature focus more on important issues such as health care, Green Bay Republican Reps. Judy Krawczyk and Karl Van Roy voted against health care reform twice this week. Reps. Krawczyk and Van Roy voted against requiring the... more...
Feb 4, 2006 Rep. Loeffelholz Ignores Need Category: Health Care
MADISON – Despite the urging of his Republican colleagues that the Legislature focus more on important issues such as health care, Grant County Republican Rep. Gabe Loeffelholz voted against health care reform twice this week. Rep. Loeffelholz voted against requiring the Legislature to adopt a... more...
Feb 3, 2006 Former Virginia Governor Mark Warner to Provide Keynote at Annual Category: Politics
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin announced today that former Democratic Virginia Governor Mark Warner will provide the keynote address at the annual Founders’ Day Gala on Saturday, April 8, 2006 at the Italian Community Center in Milwaukee.

“Governor Warner is one of the most... more...
Feb 3, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Address the 75th Annual Wisconsin Farmers Union Convention Category: Agriculture
Governor Jim Doyle will address the 75th Annual Wisconsin Farmers Union Convention at the Concourse Hotel in Madison tomorrow, Saturday, February 4, 2006 at 11:15 a.m. The theme for this year's convention is "A Proud Past, A Bright Future." The Wisconsin Farmers Union, a member-driven... more...
Feb 3, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: Joins Former President of Ireland to Plan Women Leaders Intercultural Forum Category: Politics
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today joined women from around the world, gathered at the invitation of Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, to advance plans for the Women Leaders Intercultural Forum to be held in New York City in September. Lt. Governor Lawton serves on the Economic... more...
Feb 3, 2006 Democrats Call On Green to Return $35,000 in Dirty Cash from Abramoff-Funded Boehner PAC Category: Politics
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin today called on Congressman Mark Green to return almost $35,000 in tainted campaign funds he took from the Abramoff-funded political action committee of newly minted House Republican Majority Leader John Boehner. “Instead of embracing reform, Mark Green and House... more...
Feb 2, 2006 Green's Deciding Budget Vote Hurts Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
Congressman Mark Green turned his back on Wisconsin families yet again when he cast the deciding vote yesterday to approve an immoral House Republican budget that cuts programs vital to seniors, working families, and college students in order to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans. more...
Feb 2, 2006 Green’s Deciding Vote Hurts Wisconsin College Students Category: Education
Congressman Mark Green once again turned his back on Wisconsin college students when he cast the deciding vote yesterday to approve an immoral House Republican budget that cuts federal student aid by nearly $12 billion – the largest cut in the program’s history. “While Governor Doyle and... more...
Feb 2, 2006 Sen. Robson: Democrats Block Bill that Would Hobble Attorney General's Ability to Fulfill Duties Category: Crime and Justice
If a Republican bill were signed into law, the Wisconsin attorney general would lose the authority to sue corporations for defrauding taxpayers and consumers, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson said today. “Corporations that defraud taxpayers for Medicaid dollars and companies that trick... more...
Feb 2, 2006 SSDC: Outraises CERS for Second Cycle in a Row – by $100,000 Category: Politics
While Senate Majority Leader Dale Schultz scrambles to save his own seat, the State Senate Democratic Committee (SSDC) raised $108,980 more than its Republican counterpart this past cycle. Only five donors opened up their personal checkbooks to continue the senate GOP agenda. The Committee to... more...
Feb 2, 2006 U.S. Rep. Kind: Votes Against Student Aid-Cutting Budget Bill Category: Education
By a vote of 216 to 214, the U.S. House of Representatives this afternoon narrowly approved a budget-cutting bill that takes $39 billion out of critical health, education, and other services for American families, including a $12 billion[1]cut to federal student aid programs, in order to finance... more...
Feb 2, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Federal Budget Cuts Category: Spending & Taxes
Governor Doyle made the following statement in response to the U.S. Congress' decision to cut $40 billion from the federal budget, slashing money from the Medicaid and foster care program, as well as making deep cuts in student loans. "Here in Wisconsin, we understand the value of a good... more...
Feb 2, 2006 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Extension of Remarks Honoring Coretta Scott King Category: Civil Rights
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in great sadness as our nation mourns the passing of Coretta Scott King—the First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement. Coretta Scott was preparing for a career in music when she met her future husband, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., while studying concert vocals at... more...
Feb 2, 2006 Wall Campaign: Wall Wins Endorsement of Iron Workers Union Category: Politics
Jamie Wall, Democratic candidate for Congress, today announced that he has secured the endorsement of the Iron Workers Union Local 8. “We enthusiastically support Jamie Wall for Congress,” said Yancy Grawien, Local 8 Business Agent. “He will be a champion for working people and he won’t forget... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin: Statement In Response to President Bush’s State of the Union Address Category: Politics
“The President missed an opportunity to set a new course, especially with regard to open and honest government and the kitchen table concerns of Wisconsin families. I had hoped the President would offer real solutions to the challenges faced by Wisconsinites. I don’t think the President... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Kreitlow Campaign: Statement on Failure to Override Concealed Weapons Veto Category: Politics
“Dave Zien has again used up all of his political capital on a personal mission that does nothing to help Wisconsin families or businesses. “This lengthy effort has now put Dave Zien on the defensive, trying to claim he’s been working on other matters. But we all know better. His record shows... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Nusbaum Campaign: Statement on the State of the Union Address Category: Politics
“If you run an oil company, an insurance company, a drug company, Halliburton or if you are a lobbyist for any big special interest I bet you thought President Bush’s speech was right on target and the state of your union is good. If you run an oil company, you just reported record billion dollar... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the President’s State of the Union Address Category: Politics
"The President failed tonight to present to the American people a flexible timetable for bringing our troops home from Iraq. By focusing too much on Iraq, the President has taken his eye off the emerging threats around the world. Without a plan to finish the military mission in Iraq and focus on... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on the State of the Union Address Category: Politics
I give the President credit for making health care an important part of his agenda tonight, but I’m concerned that his proposals will do little to rein in the costs of health care and reduce the number of uninsured Americans. While expanding HSAs might help some people, the health care concerns I... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Rep. Kind: Responds to State of the Union Address Category: Politics
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) issued the following statement in response to President Bush's State of the Union address: "The President should pursue an agenda to unite America again. That starts with a clear vision on Iraq that will lead to a responsible exit strategy and a focus on rising... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Temporary Extension of the USA Patriot Act Category: Civil Rights
“I will not block another short extension of the Patriot Act. But make no mistake, I will strongly oppose any long-term reauthorization of the Patriot Act that does not include modest but critical safeguards to ensure that we can both fight terrorism and protect our American values.” more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Calls for Subpoenaing Oil Company Executives to Testify Before Senate Judiciary Sommittee About High Fuel Prices Category: Working Families
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl today urged the Senate Judiciary Committee to issue subpoenas to compel oil industry Chief Executive Officers to appear before the Committee as it examines the driving forces behind high fuel prices. The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on “Consolidation in the Energy... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Sen. Robson: Senate Democrats: Republican Agenda Falls Short Category: Politics
Legislative agendas unveiled by Senate and Assembly Republicans this week reveal priorities geared more toward millionaires than the middle class, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson said today. “If I we’re a millionaire, I would love these agendas,” Robson said. “But I’m not, and neither are... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Sen. Hansen: Non-Partisan Fiscal Bureau Says GOP Tax Cut Will Cost $135 Million per Year Category: Spending & Taxes
Analysis from the non-partisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau shows that the Republicans’ plan to eliminate the tax on capital gains would cost the state $135 million per year but benefit only 5.6% of state taxpayers, many of them among the richest in the state. “Republican leaders say we have no... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Rep. Van Akkeren: Stands with Law Enforcement on Concealed Carry Veto Category: Strong Communities
“Over the past several months, I have discussed the pros and cons of this bill with many of my constituents. Recently, I met again with Sheboygan Police Chief David Kirk and Sheboygan County Sheriff Mike Helmke (along with chiefs representing Kohler, Sheboygan Falls, Plymouth, Cascade and Elkhart... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Rep. Sherman: Sherman, Dems Push Nursing Home Reimbursement Category: Seniors
Rep. Gary Sherman (D - Port Wing) yesterday attempted to bring the issue of nursing home reimbursement to the floor of the Assembly for a vote. The procedure, known as a pulling motion, would pull the bill from committee and bring it to the floor for immediate consideration. "When Senator Jauch... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Nusbaum Campaign: For 2nd Consecutive Quarter Nusbaum Raises Most From Individuals Category: Politics
For the second consecutive reporting period, Nancy Nusbaum out- raised her two Democratic primary opponents in individual contributions. Nusbaum raised just over $111,000 for this period and has $273,000 cash on hand. Ninety-four percent of contributions to Nancy Nusbaum were from Wisconsin. “I... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett to Legislature: “Let’s Get Serious About Illegal Guns!” Category: Strong Communities
Mayor Tom Barrett today called upon legislators to strengthen state gun laws at a press conference at City Hall. Barrett stood with City Council members and community representatives to announce his support for four specific changes to state law that would impact the use of illegal guns in... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Madison Mayor Cieslewicz: Madison Solidifies Position as Leading Community for Bicycling and Transit Use of Metro Reduces CO2 Emissions by Over 15,000 Tons Category: Environment
Two recent developments have solidified Madison’s position as one of the nation’s best communities for bicycling and mass transit, according to Mayor Dave Cieslewicz. In its March, 2006 issue, Bicycling magazine rated Madison the #1 city for bicycling in the 200,000 – 500,000 population category.... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Visit With Family of Milwaukee Navy Doctor He Met During Trip to Middle East Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Jim Doyle will meet with the Chris and Lori Gramling of Milwaukee, the parents of Navy Lieutenant Jessica Miller, a doctor at a U.S. Marine Corps Field Hospital providing relief to victims of the October 8, 2005 earthquake that devastated areas of Pakistan. Governor Doyle met Lt. Miller... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Announce $100,000 Grant For Long-term Care in Kenosha Category: Seniors
Governor Jim Doyle will announce a $100,000 grant to improve long-term care in Kenosha, and further discuss his proposal to expand Family Care statewide tomorrow, Thursday, February 2, 2006 at 3:00 p.m. at the Kenosha County Human Services Department and Job Center. The $100,000 grant is the... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Reports $19 Million Invested into New Businesses by Angel Investors in 2005 Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that 2005 data shows angel investing has increased significantly in Wisconsin thanks to the implementation of tax credits and the creation of the Wisconsin Angel Network (WAN). The 25 percent tax credits for qualified angel investments and WAN are key components... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Governor's Conference to Focus on Wisconsin's Challenges Category: Politics
The 2006 Governor’s Conference on Economic Development kicks off next Thursday, February 9, 2006 at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison. The theme of the two-day conference is Meeting the Competition of Tomorrow: Wisconsin’s Challenges. More than 400 business leaders and... more...
Feb 1, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces $750,000 for Job Training Category: Labor and Employment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Department of Workforce Development is investing $750,000 in Workforce Investment Act funds to the Wisconsin Community Action Program (WISCAP) to expand their Outagamie Skills Enhancement program statewide. This investment in building career ladders was... more...
Feb 1, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Asks Legislators to Support Bill Supporting Adult Protective Services Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager released a statement in support of most provisions in Assembly Bill 539, which relates to adult protective services. “I urge you to pass Assembly Bill 539, the anti-financial exploitation provisions which are essential to protecting some of Wisconsin’s most... more...
Feb 1, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Dane County to Pay $25,000 for Air Pollution Violations Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office has settled a civil lawsuit filed against Dane County for violations relating to its failure to properly monitor methane gas at its Rodefeld Landfill located at 7102 U.S. Highway 12 & 18, Town of Blooming Grove, Wisconsin.... more...
Feb 1, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Announces Victory for Wisconsin Dairy Farmers in the Long Fight for MILC Extension Category: Agriculture
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl announced today that Congress has given final approval to the Milk Loss Income Contract (MILC) program. The House of Representatives included the MILC program extension in the budget reconciliation conference report passed today; the Senate passed the conference report in... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Bush Has Failed the American People Category: Politics
Tonight, President George W. Bush will try to paint a rosy picture in his annual State of the Union Address, but the image the President will present will be completely disconnected from reality. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said today that despite his best efforts, President... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Statement on the Passing of Coretta Scott King Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today on the passing early this morning of Coretta Scott King, the widow of the slain civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Today, our nation mourns the passing of a strong, dignified woman, who channeled... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Wineke Applauds Assembly Democrats for Upholding Veto of Concealed Weapons Bill Category: Strong Communities
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today after the State Assembly upheld Governor Doyle’s veto of legislation that would have allowed concealed weapons in Wisconsin: “I applaud Assembly Democrats for standing with the vast majority of law enforcement... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Rep. Richards: Statement on Upholding Concealed Weapons Veto Category: Strong Communities
Rep. Richards issued the following statement in response to the Assembly voting to sustain the Governor’s veto of AB 403, legislation that would allow hidden weapons on Wisconsin’s streets. “I am proud that my colleagues voted to maintain Wisconsin’s independence on concealed carry legislation... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Rep. Van Akkeren: Stands with Law Enforcement on Concealed Carry Veto Category: Strong Communities
“Over the past several months, I have discussed the pros and cons of this bill with many of my constituents. Recently, I met again with Sheboygan Police Chief David Kirk and Sheboygan County Sheriff Mike Helmke (along with chiefs representing Kohler, Sheboygan Falls, Plymouth, Cascade and Elkhart... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Sen. Jauch: Legislative Democrats Call for Quick Action To Keep Promise to Wisconsin Seniors Category: Seniors
Democrats today called for speedy action on legislation that would give Wisconsin nursing homes a sorely-needed 1.4 percent increase in their Medicaid reimbursement rates – something nursing homes have been waiting for since the start of the fiscal year in July. Democrats also said they would... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Sen. Robson: Legislative Democrats Call for Quick Action to Keep Promise to Wisconsin Seniors Category: Seniors
Democrats today called for speedy action on legislation that would give Wisconsin nursing homes a sorely-needed 1.4 percent increase in their Medicaid reimbursement rates – something nursing homes have been waiting for since the start of the fiscal year in July. “Now is the time to keep our... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Stellmacher Campaign: 2006 Republican Agenda Leaves Families Behind Category: Working Families
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-Whitewater) issued the following statement in response to the 2006 Assembly Republicans agenda. "Assembly Republicans refuse to acknowledge the fundamental problems within Wisconsin's health care system that are fueling double digit annual increases in... more...
Jan 31, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Passing of Coretta Scott King Category: Civil Rights
I join all Americans today in mourning the loss of Coretta Scott King, who bravely carried the torch of civil rights after the assassination of her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mrs. King’s courage and resilience inspired millions to never give up the dream of equality for all Americans.... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Rep. Parisi: Statement on Today's Concealed Carry Vote Category: Strong Communities
I wanted to reiterate my position regarding the vote today on the concealed carry bill. I voted against the bill when it came before the Assembly and I planned on voting to sustain Governor Doyle’s veto. Unfortunately, the vote was scheduled for a day when it was not possible for me to be in the... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Rep. Lehman: Reports $53,000 War Chest for State Senate Race Category: Politics
State Representative John Lehman, D-Racine, anticipating a run for Racine’s 21st District State Senate seat in November, reported $53,700 on hand in his campaign account as of December 31, 2005. Campaign finance reports are due today. “Not a penny was raised during the spring and summer 2005... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Rep. Black: Hails Vote Against Concealed Guns Category: Strong Communities
Rep. Spencer Black today hailed the vote by the Assembly today to uphold the veto of the concealed gun law. Black called the vote to stop the bill “a victory for public safety and for sanity.” In a speech on the floor of the Assembly, Black urged his colleagues to uphold the veto. Black said... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Statement on Sustaining Conceal/Carry Veto Category: Strong Communities
“I want to thank the members of the Wisconsin State Assembly who had the courage and common sense to uphold Governor Doyle’ s veto of the concealed carry bill. No one other than the pro- gun special interests was clamoring for this unnecessary piece of legislation. Getting illegal guns and those... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: To Unveil New Art Exhibit Category: Strong Communities
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will host a reception in her office to unveil the latest exhibit of "Art in the Office" tomorrow, Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. The new display, For the love of people, water, and the land, is a collection of works from La Crosse artist Dolores... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Doyle, Law Enforcement Leaders Urge Assembly to Uphold Veto of Concealed Weapons Bill Category: Strong Communities
Today Governor Jim Doyle joined with law enforcement leaders to call on the Assembly to sustain the Governor's veto of legislation that would allow people in Wisconsin to carry loaded, hidden guns. Wisconsin has outlawed concealed weapons for 133 years. "This bill won't create a single job,"... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on the Death of Coretta Scott King Category: Civil Rights
Governor Jim Doyle made the following statement in reaction to today's news that Coretta Scott King, widow of Martin Luther King, Jr., passed away last night at the age of 78: "Like Americans everywhere, I was deeply saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Coretta Scott King. For the... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Kagen Campaign: Reports 1.2 Million on Hand to Deliver Message of Health Care Reform Category: Politics
Doctor Steve Kagen today said he will close out the current campaign reporting period with more than $1.2 million cash on hand to help him deliver his positive message of health care reform across Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District. "We can make a dramatic difference in people's lives," Kagen... more...
Jan 31, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Baraboo Woman Charged With Homicide Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager and Sauk County Sheriff Randy Stammen announced today that a Baraboo woman has been charged with reckless homicide in the death of a three year old girl who was in her care. Lautenschlager said that a criminal complaint was filed today (Tuesday, January 31,... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Lautenschlager Campaign: Touts Campaign Finance Report Rules Category: Politics
Today, Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced her campaign had raised an additional $148,163.32 during the most recent campaign finance reporting period, July 1, 2005 to December 31, 2005. Her campaign raised a total of $321,605.46 during 2005. Lautenschlager had a total of 717... more...
Jan 31, 2006 Bush Has Failed the American People Category: Politics
MADISON – Tonight, President George W. Bush will try to paint a rosy picture in his annual State of the Union Address, but the image the President will present will be completely disconnected from reality. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke said today that despite his best efforts,... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Will Townsend Vote His Conscience or Cave to NRA & GOP Party Bosses? Category: Strong Communities
Fond du Lac Republican State Representative John Townsend faces a very important test tomorrow. Will he cave to the National Rifle Association and his Republican Party bosses and vote to allow concealed weapons in Wisconsin? Or will he follow his conscience and vote to uphold a veto of a bill... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Rep. Richards: Mayor Barrett, Richards Warn Public of Hidden Weapons Threat at Summerfest, State Fair Park Category: Strong Communities
With the concealed carry vote looming, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Assembly Assistant Minority Leader Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) issued a warning to the public regarding the potential threat of hidden weapons at Summerfest, State Fair Park and other outdoor venues under SB 403, the concealed... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Wisconsin Makes Economic Honor Roll in National Study Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Wisconsin was one of only seven states to make the economic honor roll in the annual report card of the states compiled by the Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED), a national economic development organization. "My Grow Wisconsin plan outlined... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces $500,000 to Help Kettle Foods Construct Plant in Beloit Category: Labor and Employment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Department of Commerce will provide Kettle Foods, Inc., a $500,000 loan to help the company construct a new manufacturing facility in Beloit's Gateway Industrial Park, creating at least 100 new jobs for the community. Governor Doyle made the... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Doyle Campaign: Names Melanie Fonder Campaign Press Secretary Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle today named Melanie Fonder campaign press secretary. Fonder, who most recently was press secretary in Governor Doyle’s office, starts her new position today, Monday, January 30, 2006. “Melanie Fonder is talented and hard-working, and has served my Administration well as press... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Exxon-Mobil's Record Profits Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle made the following statement in reaction to today's news that Exxon Mobil has reported a quarterly profit of $10.7 billion - the second straight quarter that the company has broken the record for the largest corporate quarterly profit in U.S. history: "Once again, Exxon-Mobil... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Rep. Richards: GOP Agenda for Health Care Little More Than Lip Service Category: Health Care
Assistant Minority Leader Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) issued the following statement in response to the Assembly Republican’s Spring Agenda. “I was optimistic when I heard that the Republicans were finally ready to start working on solutions to Wisconsin’s health care crisis. Unfortunately, the... more...
Jan 30, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: On the Attorney General’s Misleading Testimony Before the Senate Judiciary Committee Category: Crime and Justice
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold has written Attorney General Alberto Gonzales in advance of the Attorney General’s appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee scheduled for February 6th asking him to be prepared to answer questions about the testimony he offered on the topic of wartime executive... more...
Jan 30, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Quarterly Inspector General for Iraq Report on Iraq Reconstruction Category: Foreign Policy
“In his just-released Quarterly report to Congress, the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR) highlights the massive tab for the American taxpayer due to the Administration’s negligence, poor planning, and lack of vision in U.S. stabilization and reconstruction operations in... more...
Jan 30, 2006 U.S. Sens. Collins, Feingold: Urge President Bush to Increase Maximum Pell Grant Award Category: Education
Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Russ Feingold (D-WI) announced today that they have sent a letter to President Bush urging him to include funding in the FY 2007 budget to increase the maximum Pell grant award to $4,500 up from its current level of $4,050. In the letter, Senators Collins and... more...
Jan 30, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: On Ending Debate on the Confirmation of Judge Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court of the United States Category: Crime and Justice
While it gives me no pleasure to vote against a Supreme Court nominee, I strongly oppose confirming Judge Samuel Alito as a Supreme Court Justice. Judge Alito has a keen legal mind but his 15-year judicial record and his testimony to the Judiciary Committee do not give me confidence that he... more...
Jan 30, 2006 First Lady Doyle: To Participate in Mentoring Roundtable in Racine Category: Education
First Lady Jessica Doyle will participate in a mentoring roundtable at the Racine Country Club at 11:45 a.m. tomorrow, Tuesday, January 31, 2006. The First Lady has partnered with the Wisconsin Youth Mentoring Council for a series of mentoring summits with Racine being the first. The sessions... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Falk Campaign: Kenosha County Executive Allan Kehl and Assembly Democratic Leader Jim Kreuser Endorse Kathleen Falk for Attorney General Category: Politics
Kenosha County Executive Allan Kehl and Assembly Democratic Leader Jim Kreuser (D-Kenosha) have endorsed Kathleen Falk for Attorney General. “Kathleen has shown strong leadership throughout her career and she will make a great Attorney General,” said County Executive Kehl. “Her experience as an... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Falk Campaign: First Campaign Finance Report Shows Broad Support for AG Challenger Falk Category: Politics
In a sign of broad support for her campaign for Attorney General, Kathleen Falk raised more than a quarter of a million dollars from more than 850 contributors throughout Wisconsin in the seven weeks between the announcement of her candidacy and the December 31 campaign finance reporting... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Green Then: I Helped Pass Medicare; Green Now: Medicare is a 'Fiasco' Category: Health Care
As Congressman Mark Green tries to back away from his support of the disastrous Bush Medicare prescription drug plan, Wisconsin seniors should remember that Green cast the deciding vote in 2003 to pass the very program that is now causing thousands of low-income seniors and disabled Americans to... more...
Jan 30, 2006 Broken Promises Category: Politics
To highlight President Bush’s diminished credibility on a number of issues important to Americans, the Democratic National Committee will run a television advertisement entitled, “Broken Promises.” The advertisement will run on Las Vegas television stations this Sunday morning.

“President... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Rep.Travis: Travis Wants to Unplug Money Laundering Machines Category: Politics
Wisconsin office holders would be prohibited from raising money for sham political committees that launder campaign cash under legislation proposed by Rep. Dave Travis (D-Westport). “Let’s unplug the political money laundering machines,” Travis said. “This type of fundraising by politicians is... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Rep. Kreuser: Rep. Townsend's Flip-Flop on Concealed Weapons Can't Be Forgotten Category: Strong Communities
With the final vote of the legislative session on the concealed carry bill approaching, Assembly Democratic Leader Jim Kreuser (D-Kenosha) called on Fond du Lac Republican Rep. John Townsend to renew his original position and vote against allowing concealed weapons to be carried in Wisconsin.... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Rep. Moore: Announces $919,621 in HUD Funds for Two Milwaukee Organizations to Maintain Youthbuild Programs Category: Strong Communities
Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced today that the Department of Housing and Urban Development will provide $919,621 to two Milwaukee-based non-profit organizations to fund their HUD-sponsored Youthbuild Programs. Congresswoman Moore made the announcement this morning at the Milwaukee Christian... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Stellmacher Campaign: Calls on Towns to Support Health Care Action Plan Category: Health Care
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-Whitewater) today called on State Representative Debi Towns to support the bi-partisan Health Care Action Plan introduced by State Senator Judy Robson (D-Beloit). Stellmacher, who attended a health care listening session last week in Janesville and a... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Rep. Vruwink: Statement on Dr. Vidaillet Appointment by State Category: Health Care
Rep. Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Milladore) issued the following congratulatory statement regarding Marshfield Clinic Research Director Dr. Humberto Vidaillet’s confirmation Thursday to the state’s UW Hospitals and Clinics Authority and UW Hospitals and Clinics Board. “I am so pleased that the Governor... more...
Jan 27, 2006 Dane County Exectuive Falk: Announces Dane County Receives "Triple A" Bond Rating fro Moody's and Fitch Category: Spending & Taxes
Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today that Dane County has received “AAA” (Triple A) credit ratings this week, from Moody’s Investment Service and from FitchRatings, for $9.2 million of 2006 General Obligation Promissory Notes and for $17.515 million of 2006 General Obligation... more...
Jan 27, 2006
DPW: Chair Charges Adelman Indictment Nothing But Partisan Politics
Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today:

“The indictment of a long-time civil servant in the Adelman travel case is nothing but partisan politics and a desperate attempt by Republicans to attack Governor Doyle during the campaign season....
Jan 26, 2006 Rep. Grigsby: Fights for Heating Assistance for Working Families Category: Working Families
Representative Tamara Grigsby (D-Milwaukee) fought for heating assistance for working families today, introducing a measure that would have provided an additional $6 million in aid to those who are struggling to pay their utility bills this winter. The measure was defeated largely along party... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Rep. Ziegelbauer: Statement on the Concealed Carry Vote Category: Strong Communities
“Today’s vote in the State Senate to override Governor Doyle’s veto of SB 403 means that it will be coming back to the Assembly for a final override vote. “The concealed carry issue has been with us for a number of years, and has received a great deal of public attention and comment. I have been... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Sen. Jauch: Proposes Wisconsin Disaster Relief Fund Category: Strong Communities
Communities in Bayfield County and throughout northern Wisconsin stand to gain several hundred thousand dollars in reimbursement for costs associated with summer and fall wind storms under a proposal authored by State Senator Bob Jauch (D-Poplar). “Helping communities recover and rebuild from a... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Sens. Decker, Taylor and Reps. Pocan, Colón: Republicans Delay Home Heating Assistance for Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
Midway through Wednesday’s meeting of the Joint Finance Committee, Republicans withdrew a bill to expand home heating assistance to more Wisconsin families this winter. “Today the committee found enough money to dispose of diseased deer carcasses, but when we had a chance to help seniors and... more...
Jan 26, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Multi-State, Landmark Agreement with Philip Morris USA to Reduce Illegal Internet Cigarette Sales Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today announced that Philip Morris USA (PM USA) has agreed to incorporate protocols aimed at combating the illegal sale of PM USA cigarettes over the Internet and through the mail. The protocols are being adopted voluntarily by PM USA pursuant to an agreement... more...
Jan 26, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Winnebago County Caregiver Convicted of Medicaid Fraud Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that a Winnebago County man has been convicted of Medical Assistance fraud in Winnebago County Circuit Court. Lautenschlager said that, Gary Tritt, 44, of Winneconne, appeared in court on January 20, 2006 and pleaded guilty to one felony count... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Dane County Executive Falk: Appoints Supervisor Patrick Miles to Lakes and Watershed Commission Category: Environment
County Executive Kathleen Falk today appointed Dane County Supervisor Patrick Miles to the Lakes and Watershed Commission. The appointment comes after Supervisor Bill Graf resigned from the Commission, as he is not running for reelection the Dane County Board this spring. Miles, of McFarland, was... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Approves $100,000 Design Project at Fond du Lac County Airport Category: Economy
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle has approved a $100,000 project that will prepare design plans and bid specifications for reconstruction of the aircraft parking apron and adjacent auto parking lot at the Fond du Lac County Airport. State funds totaling $2,500 will help complete the project. Fond du... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Approves $320,000 Project at Park Falls Municipal Airport Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle has approved a $320,000 project to install security fencing and lighting at the Park Falls Municipal Airport. The Governor’s action releases $8,000 in state funds to help complete the project. The city of Park Falls is also contributing $8,000, with the Federal Aviation... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Approves $50,000 Project at Monroe Municipal Airport Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle has approved a $50,000 project that will complete design plans for a new aviation fuel system at the Monroe Municipal Airport. The project will also reimburse the city of Monroe for costs associated with installation of electrical service for a recently-constructed hangar... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Visits Troops in Earthquake Relief Effort in Pakistan Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Jim Doyle continued his ongoing visit to the Middle East and South-Central Asia with a visit to Pakistan today. Governor Doyle viewed damage and met with troops working in the relief effort from the October 8, 2005 earthquake which registered 7.6 on the Richter scale, killed 87,000... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: Keynotes National Education Conference in Washington, D.C. Category: Education
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton delivered the opening keynote address to an estimated 1,200 attendees of the Association of American Colleges and Universities' (AAC&U) 92nd annual meeting today in Washington, D.C. At the conference, AAC&U named Lieutenant Governor Lawton to a new national... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Sen. Taylor: Wisconsin Joins National Fight Against Cervical Cancer Category: Health Care
The Wisconsin State Senate today unanimously passed Senate Joint Resolution 59, officially recognizing January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The resolution, authored by Senator Lena C. Taylor (D-Milwaukee), makes Wisconsin the latest state to join the fight against the deadly disease. “We... more...
Jan 26, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Announces Legislation to Strengthen America's Competitive Edge Category: Economy
Today, Sen. Herb Kohl announced that he is a co-sponsor of the Protecting America’s Competitive Edge (PACE) Act. The PACE Act is bi-partisan legislation that will strengthen America’s competitiveness by investing in energy research, education, and provides tax incentives for research and... more...
Jan 26, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Calls on Senate Leadership to Help Provide Energy Assistance Category: Working Families
Today, Sen. Kohl continued his fight to provide relief for low income households struggling with high energy prices. Sen. Kohl and 21 of his colleagues called upon Senate Majority Leader Frist to bring legislation before the Senate that would provide an additional $2.92 billion for the Low-Income... more...
Jan 26, 2006 U.S. Sens. Feingold, Schumer: Letter to Chairman Specter Re: Administration Officials at NSA Hearings Category: Civil Rights
We applaud your decision to hold hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee in light of recent revelations about the Natjonal Security Agency's domestic spying program. The American people deserve to understand the legal authority relied on to wiretap Americans within the United States, and... more...
Jan 26, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Calls on President to Outline a Strategy to Complete Military Mission in Iraq Category: Foreign Policy
In light of the recent fonnation of the new Iraqi government and ongoing violence in Iraq, I am writing to re-emphasize how important it is to the American public, to our servicemen and women, and to the success of their mission that you layout a clear strategy for U.S. military engagement in... more...
Jan 26, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Letter to President Bush Re: NSA Domestic Surveillance Briefing Category: Civil Rights
I write to request a briefing on the National Security Agency domestic surveillance program that you authorized, in advance of the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on February 6,2006. I take seriously Congress' obligation to provide the executive branch with the tools it needs to combat... more...
Jan 26, 2006 Riley Campaign: Blasts Veto Override on Concealed Guns Category: Strong Communities
After his opponent crossed party lines to cast a key vote, Wisconsin State Senate candidate Donovan Riley blasted the State Senate’s override Thursday of Gov. Doyle’s veto of a bill allowing the public to carry hidden firearms. Riley is running for the 7th District seat in eastern Milwaukee... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Statement from DPW Chair Joe Wineke on Adelman Travel Contract Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today:

“Unfortunately, it appears that Republicans are continuing their partisan witch hunt against Governor Doyle in their attempts to take back the Governor’s Office. Governor Doyle has always been a man... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement Regarding DOA Travel Contract Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today released the following statement: "I've made it very clear that I have zero tolerance for any ethical lapses in my Administration. "But I also have a lot of confidence in the procedures that the Department of Administration has in place, including making sure that career... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Rep. Kreuser, Rep. Richards: Assembly Democrats Plan to Fight for Heating Assistance Thursday Category: Working Families
The Joint Finance Committee Today Chose to Ignore Governor Doyle’s proposal for a $6 Million Home Heating Assistance Aid Package. Assembly Democratic Leader Jim Kreuser (D-Kenosha) and Assistant Democratic Leader Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) Issued the Following Statement Concerning the Committee’s... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Rep. Richards: Releases Report on the Dangers of Concealed Carry Legislation Category: Crime and Justice
Assembly Assistant Minority Leader Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) released a report on the dangers of conceal carry legislation entitled Not Welcome in Wisconsin: An Analysis of Conceal Carry Legislation today. The report details problems concealed carry has created in other states and the threat it... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Ringhand Campaign: Janis Ringhand Praises Governor Doyle's Concealed Carry Vote Category: Strong Communities
Janis Ringhand, candidate for the 80th Assembly District, announces today that she supports Governor Doyle’s veto of the concealed carry legislation. Together with the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association, the overwhelming majority of law enforcement and Wisconsin Coalition Against... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Robson: Here We Go Again Category: Spending & Taxes
Glimpses of the reincarnated TABOR reveal that the latest Republican plan is the same old failed fiscal experiment, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson said today. “TABOR is a proven failure,” Robson said. “Colorado sent up TABOR as a trial balloon and it came crashing down like the Hindenburg.... more...
Jan 25, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Testimony at the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee On Lobbying and Ethics Reform Category: Politics
Chairman Collins, Senator Lieberman, thank you for the invitation to testify today on this very important topic. We are truly at a watershed moment for the Congress, and I am pleased that this Committee is preparing to act quickly. There are few higher priorities than improving our ethical... more...
Jan 25, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: On the President’s Failure to Explain Why it is Necessary to Violate the Law to Effectively Fight Terrorism Category: Civil Rights
No Administration official who has publicly defended the NSA program in the last week, including the President, has explained why it is necessary to violate the law and the Constitution to effectively fight terrorism. Instead, the Administration has resorted to a public relations campaign,... more...
Jan 25, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Given an "A" by the NAACP for 2005 Category: Civil Rights
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold has received an “A” from the NAACP for his legislative voting record during 2005. Feingold was also named as one of the Senate’s 14 “Legislative Quarterbacks” for championing civil rights. “I am honored to receive this high mark from an organization that is committed to... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Sens. Brown, Decker and Reps. Musser and Turner: Funeral Dignity Protection Act Introduced Category: Veteran Affairs
A bipartisan group of state lawmakers today announced introduction of the Funeral Dignity Protection Act, designed to balance state law by maintaining the dignity of funerals of fallen service members and a person’s right to protest the death. In recent months, protests at military service... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Proposed Legislation to Halt Funeral Protests Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Doyle today released the following statement regarding bipartisan legislation proposed today that would prohibit protests within 500 feet of a funeral, wake, internment, or memorial service for an hour before and an hour after the ceremony: "The right to protest is a fundamental American... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Awards $114,500 to Fight Sexual Violence Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today announced he is awarding $114,500 in federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) funds to the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA). The grant will be used by WCASA to provide technical assistance, training, support and information to sexual assault service... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement Regarding Ethics Board Decision Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today released the following statement: "I'm pleased the Ethics Board has cleared Deputy Transportation Secretary Ruben Anthony Jr. of any wrongdoing - and has come to the same conclusion we were certain of all along. "Ruben is a person of great integrity who has done an... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces More Than $3.3 Million in Funding For Fresh Start Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that a total of $3,352,606 will be awarded to nine Fresh Start projects in Wisconsin from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban development. "I have long supported Fresh Start because it helps our communities in many ways," Governor Doyle said. "Through this... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Sen. Miller: State Lawmakers to Unveil Proposal to Create State Disaster Relief Fund Category: Strong Communities
Senator Mark Miller (D-Monona), Senator Dan Kapanke (R-La Crosse), Senator Bob Jauch (D-Poplar) along with Representative Gary Hebl (D-Sun Prairie) and Representative Lee Nerison (R-Westby) have scheduled a press conference tomorrow, January 26th, at 9:00 a.m. in the State Senate Parlor to... more...
Jan 25, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Reaches Agreement With Charity Fundraiser Regarding Sweepstakes Claims Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager, along with Attorneys General from 18 other states, announced today that an agreement has been reached with Newport Creative Communications over misleading sweepstakes claims the company made in charity solicitations. Newport, a Massachusetts company, is a... more...
Jan 25, 2006 Dane County Executive Falk: Announces Preservation of 369-Acre Dairy Farm Along Highway 12 Corridor Category: Agriculture
Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk today announced a proposal to purchase an agricultural easement for 369 acres of farmland in the towns of Springfield and Dane along the Highway 12 corridor. “This is a beautiful, large, active dairy farm that we are happy to see remain farmland forever,” said... more...
Jan 24, 2006 U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl: Statement on the Nomination of Judge Samuel Alito, Jr. as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Category: Crime and Justice
I want to congratulate you and Senator Leahy on your impartial handling of Judge Alito’s confirmation hearings. You allowed us – on behalf of the people we represent – to conduct a thorough examination of Judge Alito. And after that thorough examination I cannot support the nomination of Judge... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Samuel Alito Not Fit for Supreme Court Category: Crime and Justice
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today praised Senators Herb Kohl and Russ Feingold for voting against the nomination of President Bush’s appointee Judge Samuel Alito to the United States Supreme Court:

“Today, Senators Kohl and Feingold stood up for the individual rights... more...
Jan 24, 2006 U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold: Statement on the Nomination of Judge Samuel Alito, Jr. to the U.S. Supreme Court Category: Crime and Justice
Mr. Chairman, Justice O’Connor’s retirement in July touched off a period of intense and important work in this Committee. Just over six months later, that work seems finally to be coming to a close, at least for now. I want to commend you for the thorough and fair process you have overseen. The... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Rep. Turner: Authors Funeral Dignity Protection Act Category: Veteran Affairs
State Representative Robert L. Turner (D-Racine) announced today that he will be introducing legislation that would provide protection to grieving families and friends of Wisconsin’s fallen soldiers in the midst of recent protests by an out of state religious group. “These demonstrations have... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Reps. Parisi, Fields: Target Higher Education Assistance to Middle Class Families Category: Education
Democratic State Representatives Joe Parisi (D-Madison) and Jason Fields (D-Milwaukee) announced plans today to amend a Republican corporate tax credit bill to focus the relief on middle class families. The Democratic amendment would provide tuition assistance to those most in need and save the... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Sen. Hansen: Applauds Senate’s Vote for Economic Development Category: Economy
State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) today commended the Senate for concurring with the Assembly on passage of legislation (Assembly Bill 116) he co-authored with Rep. Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz) that will give counties more options in attracting economic development by expanding the permissible... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Sen. Hansen: Calls on Congress to Make Medicare Work for Seniors Category: Seniors
State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) and several of his fellow Democratic senators are calling on the Wisconsin congressional delegation to pass a law to allow the federal government to negotiate the prices of prescription drugs under Medicare Part D. In a letter sent to each of Wisconsin’s... more...
Jan 24, 2006 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Congressional Arts Competition Exhibit Features Work of Area Students Category: Strong Communities
This year’s Congressional Arts Competition exhibit, on display now through March in Madison’s Overture Center, Gallery III, features the artwork of students from 12 area high schools. Young artists from Albany, Brodhead, Columbus, Edgewood (Madison), Evansville, Lake Mills, Madison East, Madison... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Reps. Jensen, Sherman and Sens. Cowles, Decker and Tia Nelson: Bipartisan Plan Unveiled to Protect Over 12,000 Environmentally Precious Acres Category: Environment
A bipartisan group of legislators today unveiled a plan to protect more than 12,000 environmentally precious acres of land while also providing property tax relief for some local governments as well as increasing management efficiency of and increasing public access to state-owned forests. “By... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Marquette University College Democrats: Invite Democratic AG Candidates To Debate Category: Politics
The Marquette University College Democrats, under the leadership of Chair Noelle Gilbreath, have officially invited Democratic Attorney General candidates Kathleen Falk and Peg Lautenschlager to participate in an open debate explaining why they should be elected as the next Wisconsin Attorney... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: Open Letter to Senate and Assembly Democrats on New Film Incentives Bill Category: Economy
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today sent the following E-mail to Senate and Assembly Democrats supporting Sen. Ted Kanavas and Rep. Curt Gielow's bill that provides new tax incentives for the film, television, commercial and video game industry. She and George Tzougros, Executive Director of... more...
Jan 24, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Search Warrant Executed at All Sports Marketing in Ashwaubenon Over Alleged Fraudulent Favre Memorabilia Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) executed a search warrant on Friday, January 20, 2006 at All Sports Marketing, 2039 Holmgren Way, in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin. The action stemmed from allegations relating to fraudulent Brett Favre... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Makes Surprise Visit to Iraq to Visit Wisconsin National Guard Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Jim Doyle is in Iraq with a delegation of Governors to visit Wisconsin National Guard troops at the invitation of the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of State. Governor Doyle, joined by Governors Mike Huckabee (R-Ark.), Rick Perry (R-Tex.), and Dave Freudenthal... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on DPI Order Regarding Northside High School Category: Education
Governor Jim Doyle released the following statement on today's report from the state Department of Public Instruction regarding the suspension of state funds to Northside High School in Milwaukee: "My first concern is for parents who have to scramble to find another school for their kids - and... more...
Jan 24, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Calls on Legislature to Approve Emergency Energy Assistance Package Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today urged legislators to approve a proposal that would provide working Wisconsin families $6 million in immediate, emergency energy assistance. The Governor's package, which he announced in his State of the State Address last week, is expected to be considered tomorrow by the... more...
Jan 23, 2006 SSDC: Names Senator Decker as New Chair Category: Politics
State Senator Russ Decker was named Chair of the State Senate Democratic Committee today. Senator Decker will join Minority Leader Judy Robson in leading the effort to build toward a majority in the State Senate. Senator Decker has served four terms in the State Senate, winning his first term in... more...
Jan 23, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Government’s Possible Data Mining of Americans Category: Civil Rights
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold made the following statement today after he sent a letter to the National Intelligence Director, National Security Agency Director, and the Secretary of Defense seeking answers to questions about the NSA’s use of data mining technology to analyze the communications of... more...
Jan 23, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces $325 Million Multistate Settlement with Ameriquest Morgage Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that Ameriquest Mortgage Company, the nation’s largest sub-prime lender, has agreed to pay $295 million to consumers and make sweeping reforms of practices that states alleged amounted to predatory lending. Ameriquest also will pay a total of... more...
Jan 23, 2006 Sowa Campaign: Endorsed by IUE/CWA Local 84811 Category: Politics
The IUE/CWA Local 84811 of Janesville has voted to endorse Democratic candidate for the First Congressional District of Wisconsin, Justin Sowa. Darin Bontje, Political Chair of the IUE/CWA Local 84811, said, “We decided to make this endorsement now, rather than later, because we have too often... more...
Jan 23, 2006 Wineke Column: The GOP Has Had Its Chance; It’s Time for Change Category: Politics
The Grand Old Party has lost its way. The party of less government and less regulation has been replaced by one that has created huge federal deficits and seemingly wants to regulate how we lead our lives. They have sold out to the special interests (does the name Jack Abramoff ring a bell?)... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Veto of Concealed Carry Bill Category: Strong Communities
Governor Doyle today announced that he will veto Senate Bill 403, legislation that would allow concealed weapons into almost all public places in the state, when he returns to Madison late this afternoon. The Governor made the following statement: "I am proud to stand with the overwhelming... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Reps. Jensen, Sherman, Sen. Cowles: To Announce Plan to Protect Wisconsin’s Most Environmentally Precious Lands and Help Working Forests Category: Environment
State Representatives Scott Jensen (R-Town of Brookfield) and Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing), and Senator Robert Cowles (R-Green Bay) will hold a press conference on Tuesday, January 24 at 10:00 a.m. in the Assembly Parlor. Tia Nelson, Executive Secretary of the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Sen. Robson: Affordable Health Care Tour Resumes Category: Health Care
The Action Plan for Affordable Health Care Tour hit the road again in January with meetings in Black River Falls, Janesville and Beloit. The Legislature’s only Republican sponsor of the Action Plan for Affordable Health Care, Rep. Terry Musser of Black River Falls, participated in the January 14... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Rep. Lehman: Calls on Legislature to Act on Nursing Home Reimbursement Increase Category: Seniors
State Representative John Lehman (D-Racine) today called on Republican Leadership to immediately act on reimbursing county nursing homes. “The recent report from the non-partisan Fiscal Bureau that the state has generated an additional $93 million in tax collections by mid-2007 was welcome news,”... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Nusbaum Campaign: Highlights Her Ethics Reform Proposals at Forum Category: Politics
Nancy Nusbaum, Democratic candidate for the open 8th Congressional District seat, drew spontaneous applause at a candidate forum last night when she discussed her ethics reform proposal. “Fundamentally, we have got to shift the way we set federal policy and get the cronyism and the corporate... more...
Jan 20, 2006 U.S. Senator Russ Feingold: On the latest regarding the Medicare prescription drug benefit Category: Health Care
“In the three weeks since it was launched, the Medicare prescription drug benefit has resulted in frustration, confusion, expensive medications, and sometimes no medications at all for many senior and disabled citizens. These problems are potentially life-threatening and they need to be fixed... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces $250,000 for J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. to Expand in Neenah Project Expected to Create More Than 70 Jobs Category: Labor and Employment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Department of Commerce will provide J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. $250,000 in Technology Zone Tax Credits to expand their operations in Neenah. The project is expected to create 71 jobs and retain 983 jobs. "With technology, training, trade promotion,... more...
Jan 20, 2006 Rep. Pocan: Statement on MG&E's Decision to Stop Burning Coal on the Madison Isthmus in the Next Six Years Category: Environment
“Last month, I joined environmental groups in encouraging Madison Gas and Electric to quickly come up with a plan to reduce pollution from their Blount Street coal-burning plant that emits pollution at a higher rate than any power plant in Wisconsin and twice the national average. “MG&E has... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Mark Green's True Record on Seniors Category: Seniors
Congressman Mark Green is at it once again, trying to hide his true Washington record of pandering to the beltway special interests and ignoring the needs of Wisconsin families and seniors.

This time, Green is trying to claim he has a record of helping Wisconsin seniors, when he has really... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Reps. Kreuser, Richards: Assembly Democrats Introduce "On Wisconsin Agenda" Category: Working Families
Assembly Democratic Leader Jim Kreuser and Assistant Leader Jon Richards were joined by their Democratic colleagues today to unveil their 2006 legislative priority list labeled the “On Wisconsin Agenda.” Included in the package are proposals outlined in Governor Jim Doyle’s state of the state... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Sen. Robson: Senate Republicans Fast-Track Bills for Lobbyists, Reject Action on Bill That Helps Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
Senate Republicans today passed bills that help out mortgage lenders and car dealers, but rejected a motion to hold a public hearing on legislation that would help Wisconsin families with the costs of home heating. “This Senate is looking out for mortgage lenders, but not the people who pay the... more...
Jan 19, 2006 U.S. Sens. Feingold, Kohl: Urge President to Reject Attempts to Weaken National Guard Category: Homeland Defense
U.S. Senators Russ Feingold and Herb Kohl have written President Bush requesting that he reject plans to weaken the National Guard. Recent reports suggest that the Department of Defense is planning to slash the National Guard’s end strength, the total number of personnel in the National Guard, by... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Rep. Sherman: Circulates Personal Preference/Designated Agent legislation Category: Seniors
Yesterday Rep. Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing) circulated a bill which would give people the ability to control their funeral arrangements and the disposition of their remains at death. The intent is to provide tools very similar to advanced medical directives that people use to control their health... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces $250,000 Planning Grant to Expand Long-Term Care Options in West-Central Wisconsin Category: Seniors
Governor Jim Doyle today announced a $250,000 planning grant to expand Family Care statewide - an initiative he unveiled in Tuesday night's State of the State Address than will eliminate waiting lists for community based long term care. The initiative is designed to meet the Governor's goal of... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Extends Deadline for Energy Rebates Also Unveils Improvements to Energy Help Initiative Web Site Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today directed the Department of Administration to extend the deadline for rebates on energy-efficient heating appliances and home energy audits from February 28, 2006 to May 15, 2006 to help more people improve energy efficiency in their homes and cut their costs. Announced in... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Address 85th Annual State Education Convention Category: Education
Governor Jim Doyle will address the Wisconsin State Education Convention tomorrow, Friday, January 20, 2006 at 9:30 a.m. in Milwaukee. The Governor will discuss his vision for education in Wisconsin, including the plan outlined in his State of the State address to increase standards for high... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Announce Economic Initiatives Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle will announce an economic development project expected to create more than 70 new jobs tomorrow, Friday, January 20 at 1:00 p.m. at J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. in Neenah. In his State of the State Address, Governor Doyle outlined an Affordability Agenda for Wisconsin's... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Discuss Plan to Provide Health Care for All Wisconsin Kids at Roundtable with Wausau Families Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle will host a roundtable to discuss a plan to provide health care coverage for 100 percent of Wisconsin's kids tomorrow, Friday, January 20, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. in Wausau. In his State of the State address, Governor Doyle outlined an Affordability Agenda for Wisconsin's... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: To Discuss Key State of the State Initatives in Beloit Category: Education
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will hold a press conference to discuss key initiatives outlined in Governor Doyle's State of the State address, tomorrow, Friday, January 20, 2006 at 10:00 a.m., at McNeel Middle School in Beloit. Specifically, the Lieutenant Governor will discuss the... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Lt. Gov. Lawton: To Discuss Key State of the State Initiatives in Janesville Category: Economy
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will discuss key initiatives outlined in Governor Doyle's State of the State address, tomorrow, Friday, January 20, 2006 at 1:00 p.m., at United Alloy in Janesville. Specifically, the Lieutenant Governor will discuss the Administration's Manufacturing... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Wall Campaign: Wall Calls Ethics Reform Plan a Good Start Category: Politics
Calling the Democratic Leadership’s ethics reform plan a “step in the right direction,” Jamie Wall, Democratic Candidate for Congress in Northeast Wisconsin, said today that he would support the proposed Democratic ethics reform bill but urged the Congressional leadership to continue working for... more...
Jan 19, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Crawford County Caregiver Sentenced for Abuse of Resident Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that a Crawford County man has been sentenced for the abuse and neglect of a resident in his care. Lautenschlager said that Gene Lafoe, 53, Blue River, Wisconsin, has been sentenced to two years of probation. As conditions of probation, Lafoe... more...
Jan 19, 2006 Sen. Plale: Governor Doyle’s Agenda is an Important First Step for Wisconsin Category: Working Families
State Senator Jeff Plale is enthusiastic about many of the initiatives debuted in Governor Doyle’s State of the State Address on Tuesday evening. In his fourth such address, the Governor rolled out many new initiatives aimed at easing the burden on middle class and low income families. “We have... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Kreuser: Statement on Election Reform Category: Politics
“This morning the State Legislature took a substantial step forward on election reform by passing a comprehensive, bipartisan bill out of the Joint Legislative Council Committee. “This plan contains significant parts of the election reform proposal proposed by Governor Doyle and introduced by... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Lehman: Again Calls for Sunset of Brewer Stadium Tax Category: Spending & Taxes
State Representative John Lehman (D-Racine) today called on Senator Scott Fitzgerald and Representative Dean Kaufert, co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Finance, to take action on Senate Bill 19, a proposal that would place a sunset date of December 31, 2014 for collection of the sales and use... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Pocan: Statement on "State of the State" Category: Politics
“Governor Doyle gets high marks with his new ‘Affordability Agenda’. Democratic themes of affordable and accessible healthcare and education, as well as reforms for tax policy, ethics and campaign finance reform, are strong progressive, populist themes. “Republicans’ transparent concerns about... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Richards: Help is on the Way for Understaffed School Health Rooms Category: Health Care
Assistant Assembly Minority Leader Jon Richards’ (D-Milwaukee) legislation to help overburdened school nursing programs continued to advance through the legislature Wednesday. AB 829, the Volunteer Health Care Provider Bill, passed the Senate Committee on Health, Children, Families, Aging and... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Sherman: Governor Stands Up for Middle Class Working Families Category: Working Families
Rep. Gary Sherman (D - Port Wing) praised Governor Jim Doyle's State of the State address as an expression of core Democratic values. He reached out to middle class working families who are finding it harder to get by in the face of skyrocketing energy prices, health care that is often not... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Zepnick, Sen. Miller: Propose All Kids Initiative Category: Working Families
Representative Josh Zepnick (D – Milwaukee) and Senator Mark Miller (D – Monona) proposed All Kids legislation today, a bill that will provide health care coverage to all children under the age of 19 years. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, just over 100,000 Wisconsin children went... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Sen. Miller: Statement on Governor’s State of the State Address Category: Politics
I applaud Governor Doyle on his thoughtful address to Wisconsin. The Governor’s commitment to Wisconsin’s residents is crystal clear after last night’s address. He understands residents are concerned about health care, education, and good paying jobs. He knows it is time to move forward with... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Stellmacher Campaign: To Join Discussion on Health Care Action Plan Category: Health Care
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-Whitewater) this morning announced that he will attend two local listening sessions on a Health Care Action Plan proposed by State Senator Judy Robson and Representatives Mike Sheridan and Chuck Benedict. The legislation, SB 416 and AB 834 would... more...
Jan 18, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Democratic Plan for Honest Leadership and Open Government Category: Politics
It is unfortunate that it took a scandal to make members of Congress understand that we must answer to the American people, not the wealthy and well-connected. I am pleased that the Democratic leadership has proposed far-reaching ethical and lobbying reforms, building on the bill I introduced... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Rep. Lehman: Letter to Joint Finance on Brewer Stadium Tax Category: Spending & Taxes
Senate Bill 19, relating to the sunset of the local Professional Baseball Park District sales and use tax is currently before your committee. As you know, the bill was reported out of the Senate Committee on Job Creation, Economic Development and Consumer Affairs on a 5-0 vote on May 27, 2005 and... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Madison Mayor Cieslewicz: Announces Successful Completion of Goodman Pool Fundraising Drive Category: Strong Communities
Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today announced the successful completion of the fundraising drive for the Goodman Pool, Madison’s first municipal swimming pool. The fundraising total was put over the top by a $250,000 gift from the Cooper Family Foundation. “The incredibly generous gift from John and Mary... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Lieut. Gov. Lawton: To Discuss Key State of the State Initiatives in Kenosha Will Talk with Eighth-Graders about Educational Opportunities Category: Education
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will hold a press conference to discuss key initiatives outlined in Governor Doyle's State of the State address, tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 10:00 a.m., at Bullen Middle School in Kenosha. Specifically, the Lieutenant Governor will discuss the... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Kagen Campaign: Delivers Prescription for Health-Care Reform to Nation's Capitol Category: Health Care
Dr. Steve Kagen, in Washington, D.C. this week to meet with Democratic leaders and personally thank pharmacists for covering their patients' drug costs during the federal government's botched Medicare Plan D rollout, said the best prescription for the future of health-care reform is a new... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Outline Plans to Provide Emergency Home Heating Assis tance to Wisconsin Residents Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle will discuss the emergency legislation he called for in his State address to help working families combat rising heating costs tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 3:30 p.m. in Superior. In his State of the State Address, Governor Doyle outlined an Affordability Agenda for... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Discuss the Wisconsin Convenant with Middle School Students in Hudson Category: Education
Following his State of the State Address, Governor Jim Doyle will talk to students about the Wisconsin Covenant, his proposal to make college more affordable for Wisconsin families tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at Hudson Middle School. In his State of the State Address,... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Announce State Investment in Long-term Care in Eau Claire Category: Health Care
Following his State of the State Address, Governor Jim Doyle will announce a state investment in long-term care in Eau Claire, and further discuss his proposal to expand Family Care statewide tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. at the Community Health Partnership. In his State of... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Highlights Manitowoc in State of the State Address Category: Economy
In his fourth State of the State Address Tuesday night, Governor Doyle, who has frequently visited Manitowoc since taking office three years ago and directed millions in economic development and training funding there, highlighted the city's economic turnaround. The Governor recognized... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Appointments to the e-Heatlh Care Quality and Patient Safety Board Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle announced today his appointments to the e-Health Care Quality and Patient Safety Board. The Board was created by the Governor's Executive Order 129 on November 2, 2005 and will develop a strategic plan for statewide adoption and exchange of electronic health records in five... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Unveils Manufacturing Initiative in State-of-State Category: Economy
In his fourth State-of-the-State address, Governor Jim Doyle announced plans to fund a new initiative to help small and medium-sized manufacturers that supply large Wisconsin companies identify and capture opportunities to improve their performance. "We're going to upgrade, modernize, train and... more...
Jan 18, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Milk Volume Production Loan Category: Agriculture
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Jay Noble, Belgium, Ozaukee County has received a $75,000 loan from the Department of Commerce (Commerce) Milk Volume Production (MVP) program to increase milk production in Wisconsin. "My Grow Wisconsin, 2005 Agenda calls for a new commitment in our... more...
Jan 18, 2006 First Lady Doyle: to Highlight the Wisconsin Covenant in Oshkosh and Fond du Lac Category: Education
Following Governor Doyle’s State of the State Address, First Lady Jessica Doyle will talk to students about the Wisconsin Covenant, the Governor’s proposal to make college more affordable tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2006 at middle schools in Oshkosh and Fond du Lac. The First Lady will visit... more...
Jan 17, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Receive President's Award from the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups Category: Seniors
Governor Jim Doyle will be presented with the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups (CWAG) President's Award in a breakfast ceremony tomorrow, Wednesday, January 18, 2006 at 8:00 a.m. at CWAG's Intergenerational Center in Madison. CWAG is a statewide grassroots advocacy organization working on... more...
Jan 17, 2006 Sen. Robson: Republicans Fast-Track Concealed Carry While Ignoring Affordable Health Care Category: Strong Communities
“Once again we debated a bill that is at the low end of the priority list for the vast majority of Wisconsinites. Meanwhile, the Republicans ignore one of the most pressing issues facing the state: health care costs. Why aren’t we talking about that? Democrats have been traveling the state... more...
Jan 17, 2006 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Default Judgment Against Florida Telemarketer Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office obtained a $6,047 judgment against Wholesale Connection Company, a Longwood, Florida travel voucher company, for 15 violations of Wisconsin’s No-Call law and other telemarketing laws. The violations occurred between February and... more...
Jan 17, 2006 Wineke: Governor Doyle Puts Middle Class Families First Category: Working Families
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement tonight in response to Governor Doyle’s 2006 State of the State Address:

“Tonight, Governor Doyle put forward an ambitious, positive agenda that will make life in Wisconsin more affordable for our middle class... more...
Jan 17, 2006 Gov. Jim Doyle's State of the State Address Category: Working Families
We are aware of the low video quality. We are working to bring you an improved version. The prepared text of the State of the State address, titled "An Affordability Agenda for Middle-Class and Working Families," delivered to the Legislature Tuesday... more...
Jan 16, 2006 Kagen Campaign: Commends Pharmacists for Helping Seniors Cover New Medicare Costs Category: Health Care
Dr. Steve Kagen today commended local pharmacists across Wisconsin for "coming to the rescue" of seniors whose medications might otherwise be denied due to serious glitches in the federal government's new Medicare prescription drug program, and called on Congress to compensate those who have... more...
Jan 16, 2006 U.S. Rep. Kind: Pushes Proposals to Crack Down on Ethics Abuses & Restore Trust in Government Category: Politics
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) today addressed the need to reform the Congressional ethics process and outlined his ideas to restore trust and accountability in the way government conducts itself. Kind presented his Honest Government Initiative which includes a number of proposals to crack down on... more...
Jan 16, 2006 Stellmacher Campaign: Ready to Defend Safety of Constituents Category: Strong Communities
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-Whitewater) today announced his intention to defend his constituents' right to safe and secure communities by opposing proposed conceal and carry legislation (SB 403). This bill would allow residents of Wisconsin to carry concealed weapons beyond the... more...
Jan 16, 2006 Honor Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Category: Civil Rights
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr:

“Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of a great American.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dreamed of a better America – a country... more...
Jan 13, 2006 While Governor Doyle Helps Seniors Get the Prescription Drugs They Need, Mark Green Touts Boondoggle of Bush Medicare Plan Category: Health Care
As Congressman Mark Green continues to tout the disastrous Bush Medicare prescription drug plan, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke sent a letter to Green today, showing how the federal program is causing thousands of low-income seniors and disabled Americans to lose their drug... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Emergency Action to Get Wisconsin's Seniors Needed Medications Category: Health Care
With reports of widespread failure by the federal government to properly enroll seniors in the Medicare Part D program, Governor Doyle announced today emergency measures to ensure seniors and people with disabilities in Wisconsin get the life-saving drugs they need. "It is outrageous how the... more...
Jan 13, 2006 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Calls for Action to Fix Prescription Drug Program Category: Health Care
Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin today joined with Senator Russ Feingold and some other members of Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation in calling for immediate attention to the life-threatening problems facing some Medicare beneficiaries under the new Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. In a... more...
Jan 13, 2006 U.S. Sens. Feingold, Kohl, Reps. Baldwin, Kind, Moore, Obey: Letter Regarding Medicare and Medicaid Services Category: Health Care
As the new Medicare prescription drug benefit is implemented in our state, we are deeply concerned about the many problems beneficiaries are having. As you know, state governors have enacted safety net programs for elderly and disabled people who are unable to obtain medications under the... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Sen. Carpenter: Letter to Doyle Concerning Medicare Issues Category: Health Care
The news this week regarding the implementation of the Medicare Part D prescription drug programs has been nothing short of alarming. The local and national media report that people who should not be in the program have been unceremoniously swept into the plan, and those in the Plan are having... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Sen. Cogg's Urges Vote for "Bully Bill" Category: Strong Communities
Sen. Spencer Coggs, co-author of SB 310/AB 647, known as the “Bully Bill,” urged a vote on the bill in the Assembly after an Assembly committee this week deadlocked on a 6-6 tie vote. “This bill is too important to be thwarted by six people,” Sen. Coggs said. “I respect the committee members’... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Sen. Robson: Legislation Can Help with High Price of Keeping Warm Category: Working Families
With natural gas prices projected to spike as much as 50 percent above last year, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson today called for action on legislation that would help Wisconsin families deal with the high cost of keeping warm. “Three Democratic bills that are awaiting public hearings would... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Rep. Shilling: Highlights 2006 Legislative Priorities Category: Politics
As the new legislative year begins, Representative Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) announced her priorities for the final months of this term’s legislative session. At the top of her list were a comprehensive healthcare reform package, tax reform, and a proposal to strengthen downtown... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Kagen Campaign: Jay Johnson Backs Dr. Steve Kagen for Congress Category: Politics
Former Congressman Jay Johnson today endorsed Dr. Steve Kagen in the race for Wisconsin's 8th District, saying the Appleton native is "uniquely qualified" to chart a new course for our nation's health care, economy and quality of life. "Steve Kagen will make the people of northeast Wisconsin... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Seeks Nominations for Pulp and Paper Energy Efficiency Award Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that nominations are being sought for the 2006 Pulp and Paper Energy Efficiency Award, an award recognizing the Wisconsin pulp and/or paper mill that best shows outstanding achievement in implementing an energy efficiency project. This award, sponsored jointly... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Rock County Is 'Capital for the Day' on January 30th Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that Rock County will be "Capital for the Day" on Monday, January 30, 2006. Governor Doyle will bring First Lady Jessica Doyle, Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton, and members of his Cabinet to Rock County to meet with local citizens and local government and... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Recommendations to Reduce Energy Costs for Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced a series of recommendations designed to reduce home heating and gas costs for Wisconsin families. The recommendations come out of a new report compiled by the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection based on the findings of the hearing on gas... more...
Jan 13, 2006 Gov. Doyle Announces Urban Forestry Grants Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that 50 Wisconsin communities and nonprofit organizations will receive a share of $655,400 in Urban Forestry Grants in 2006 for community projects ranging from development of urban forestry plans and urban forest maintenance to staff training and creation of... more...
Jan 12, 2006 Much To Do About Nothing Category: Politics
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin called on Congressman Mark Green today to drop his ridiculous false claims that he got rid of more than $30,000 in campaign contributions from the indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, and clean his campaign of the dirty cash by immediately donating it... more...
Jan 12, 2006 Lautenschlager Campaign: Teamsters Local 200 Drives Home Strong Endorsement of Attorney General Lautenschlager Category: Politics
Teamsters Local 200 announced their endorsement of Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today, adding their strong support to a rapidly growing list of Lautenschlager labor endorsements. “The Teamsters Local 200 voted to strongly endorse your candidacy for re-election as Attorney General, “stated... more...
Jan 11, 2006 Kagen Campaign: 'Medicare Part D Plan in Critical Condition Category: Health Care
Dr. Steve Kagen today said that the new Medicare Part D plan ushered in with the new year is in critical condition and called on Congress to immediately retool it to allow the federal government to negotiate lower drug prices with the insurance industry in the same way that the Veterans... more...
Jan 11, 2006 Sen. Robson: Republicans Defend Voting in Secret Category: Politics
State Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson expressed disappointment today over Republican senators’ insistence on retaining the practice of voting on legislation by paper ballot outside of public view. “It is unfortunate that Republican senators have rushed to the defense of secret voting without... more...
Jan 11, 2006 Rep. Sherman: Legislation Makes Progress Category: Spending & Taxes
On Tuesday two bills introduced by State Representative Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing) passed out of the Assembly Committee on Urban and Local Affairs. AB 662 calls for the Departments of Administration and Revenue to conduct a study of the impact on local government of untaxable, public land and... more...
Jan 11, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Nearly $1 Million to Improve Recreational Boating in Wisconsin Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that twelve Wisconsin units of government and three qualified lake associations will receive grants totaling $932,544 to make improvements to recreational boating in their communities. "Wisconsin is a state where our beautiful, natural outdoor areas are not just... more...
Jan 11, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Issues Testimony Opposing Legislation to Strip Traditional Authority of A.G. to Represent Rights of Wisconsin Citizens Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today issued testimony opposing the passage of Senate Bill 425. SB 425 is a legislative proposal that would eliminate the Attorney General’s authority to bring a public nuisance legal action against those who would negatively impact the rights of private... more...
Jan 10, 2006 Wall Campaign: Calls for Congressional Ethics Reform Category: Politics
As numerous ethics scandals ripple through Washington, Jamie Wall, Democratic candidate for Congress, today called for a reform of House ethics rules and pledged his support for the Obey-Frank-Price-Allen reform package proposed last month. “The relationship between the Republican Congress and... more...
Jan 10, 2006 Stellmacher Campaign: Joins Bi-Partisan Call for Ethics Reform Category: Politics
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-43) has announced his support for Governor Jim Doyle's Ethics Reform Package. The proposal, which has earned bi-partisan support, includes a ban on fundraising during the bi-annual budget process. The legislation would also place a one year ban on paid... more...
Jan 10, 2006 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: American Eagle Launches Non-stop Flights to New York-LaGuardia from Dane County Regional Airport Category: Economy
American Eagle, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, today launched nonstop service between Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) in Madison and New York-LaGuardia Airport. “Now we’re only one stop away from the world’s financial capital,” Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk said today at... more...
Jan 10, 2006 Lautenschlager Campaign: The National Latino Peace Officers Association Announces Endorsement of Lautenschlager for Attorney General Category: Politics
The National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA) announced their endorsement of Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today. “The 25,000 law enforcement members of the NLPOA unanimously support and endorse your candidacy for re-election as Attorney General of the great State of Wisconsin,... more...
Jan 10, 2006 State of the State Watch Parties Category: Politics
Do you have any plans for January 17th? There are State of the State watching parties happening all over the state! If you would like to watch the speech with other Democrats and talk about what is at stake in the upcoming election please join one of these gatherings! In his... more...
Jan 9, 2006 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Opening Statement of Nomination Hearing of Judge Samuel A. Alito Jr. Category: Crime and Justice
Judge Alito, let me also extend my welcome to you this afternoon and to your family. You are to be congratulated on your nomination. Through its interpretation of the Constitution, the Supreme Court hugely shapes the fabric of our society - for us and for future generations. Over the course of... more...
Jan 9, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Lead Economic Development Mission to Ireland Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today began an economic development mission to Ireland to strengthen economic and governmental ties. The Governor, along with a delegation of Wisconsin business and government leaders, will be in Ireland from January 7-12, 2006. Governor Doyle has previously led trade missions... more...
Jan 9, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement at the Confirmation Hearing of Supreme Court Nominee Samuel Alito Category: Crime and Justice
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to welcome our nominee and thank him in advance for the long hours he will put in this week. I greatly admire your legal qualifications and record of public service, Judge Alito, and I wish you well here. As with the hearing on the nomination of Chief Justice... more...
Jan 9, 2006 Nusbaum Campaign: Vows Reform Will Be Her First Priority in Congress Category: Politics
Nancy Nusbaum, Democratic candidate for the open 8th Congressional District seat, vowed to make ethics and lobbying reform her first priority in Congress. We need to change the culture of corruption, lies and deceit that people have come to expect out of Washington. “We need to change our... more...
Jan 9, 2006 Governor Doyle Announces Memorial Service for Former U.S. Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that a memorial service for former U.S. Senator William E. Proxmire will be at 12:00 noon on Friday, February 10, 2006, in the rotunda of the State Capitol. The service will be open to the public. Additional details will follow as they become available.... more...
Jan 9, 2006 County Executive Falk: Announces On-Line Auction of Old Courthouse Furniture Category: Spending & Taxes
As Dane County moves into its new courthouse building, the County will partner with the State of Wisconsin’s Surplus With A Purpose (SWAP) program to dispose of some of the remaining furniture in the City County Building. A thorough review was completed to determine what furniture could be moved... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Wineke Asks Graber to Support Investigation into Possible Voter Fraud Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today requested that his GOP counterpart join him in supporting the investigation of a special prosecutor in Waukesha County to determine the voting eligibility of Republican Assembly candidate Scott Newcomer in the January 10th special election for... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Memo to Media on Graul's Line of Deceit on Abramoff Ticket Freebies Category: Politics
Every time Congressman Mark Green’s campaign manager Mark Graul has been asked about documents showing him on a list for ticket freebies from indicted Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack Abramoff, his story has changed. Email records obtained by journalist Josh Marshall and posted on his website at... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Vetoes SB 58, SB 70, and AB 56, Anti-Consumer Legislation Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today vetoed three bills that would erode consumer protections in Wisconsin. Governor Doyle vetoed Senate Bill 58, which would make several changes to product liability laws that would be detrimental to consumers. "I am committed to investing in all of our industries and... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Sen. Robson: Renews Call for End to Secret Voting Category: Politics
Renewing her proposal of a year ago, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson is once again calling for a change in the Senate rules to end the practice of voting on legislation by paper ballot away from public view. She also repeated her call to prohibit public hearings on bills before they have... more...
Jan 6, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Letter to Arlen Specter About PATRIOT Act Category: Civil Rights
We were gratified that Congress agreed to extend the expiring provisions of the USA PATRIOT Act at the end of last year’s Congressional session. Although the PATRIOT Act must be modified to better protect the constitutional rights of innocent Americans, the important tools the original law... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Sen. Taylor: Applauds Governor's Veto of Lead Paint Poisoning Immunity Bill Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle vetoed a bill Friday that would have given the makers of poisonous lead paint total immunity from current lawsuits, including one brought by a brain-damaged Milwaukee teenager. Senator Lena Taylor led the opposition in the State Senate to the lead paint immunity bill and... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Vetoes Senate Bill 402, Lead Paint Liability Bill Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today vetoed Senate Bill 402, legislation that would have shielded lead paint manufacturers from claims brought by families of children poisoned by lead-based paint. "Every day, lead continues to seep from paint on windowsills of Milwaukee's oldest homes and into the blood,... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Dane County Executive Falk: Announces U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Declaration Category: Strong Communities
Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk today announced that effective January 5, 2006, the United States Small Business Administration, responding to the August 18, 2005 tornados, issued a disaster declaration for the state of Wisconsin. Dane County residents who rent or own their own home, own... more...
Jan 6, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Sen. Zien Issues News Release on Wrong Bill Category: Crime and Justice
Last October, State Senator Dave Zien announced he was working with State Representative Scott Suder on legislation to severely limit the authority of the Attorney General to bring lawsuits on behalf of Wisconsin citizens against violators of state law. Attorney General Lautenschlager’s detailed... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Statement on SeniorCare Enrollment Error by Federal Government Category: Seniors
Governor Jim Doyle today made the following statement regarding an error by the federal government that caused approximately 2100 seniors to be wrongly enrolled in the Medicare Part D program: "Last year I personally negotiated an agreement with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Leavitt to... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Feingold Campaign: Statement on Campaign Contributions from Greenberg Traurig, LLP Category: Politics
We have decided to return four donations that we have received from a Political Action Committee and two individuals associated with the law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP -- the firm where lobbyist Jack Abramoff worked until 2004. These donations happened between 2002 and 2004 and totaled $1,600.... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Federal Loans Approved for Tornado Disaster Victims Category: Strong Communities
Governor Doyle today announced that the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a request for federal low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses impacted by the devastating August 18, 2005 tornadoes that hit Wisconsin. "While I am really disappointed that... more...
Jan 6, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Crawford County Caregiver Convicted of Abuse Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that a Crawford County man has been convicted in Crawford County Circuit Court for intentional neglect of a group home resident. Lautenschlager said Gene Lafoe, 53, of Blue River, Wisconsin, appeared in court on January 5, 2006, and entered a... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk: Remarks for the Opening of the New Dane County Courthouse Category: Politics
“Good Afternoon! Thank you all for coming. I am delighted to welcome you all to share this day and to see all of the hard work and dedication of so many people come to fruition. “Buildings are important landmarks in any community. In themselves, they are often a key part of the landscape and this... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces Wisconsin Will Receive Additional $3.9 Million in Federal Energy Assistance Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the State of Wisconsin will receive an additional $3.9 million in emergency funds from the federal government to help low and fixed income citizens in Wisconsin pay their energy bills this winter. The additional funds bring Wisconsin's share of federal Low... more...
Jan 6, 2006 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Letter to Steven Mahan About the Milwaukee Alliance Category: Strong Communities
Based on recent developments and correspondence to the Community Development Grants Administration from the Milwaukee Alliance, Inc., it is necessary that you take the appropriate steps for introduction of a Common Council resolution rescinding the year 2006 CDBG award to the Milwaukee Alliance... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Wineke Sends Green Documents Showing Graul Took Tickets from Jack Abramoff Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke sent a letter to Congressman Mark Green today, providing him with email records that show that Green’s congressional chief of staff and now campaign manager Mark Graul was a frequent recipient of ticket freebies from indicted Washington, D.C.... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Unveils Bipartisan Ethics Reform Package Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle today joined with Senators Mike Ellis and Jon Erpenbach, and Representatives Stephen Freese and Mark Pocan in announcing the most comprehensive ethics reform package to be introduced in Wisconsin in more than three decades. "Throughout my career in law enforcement and... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Rep. Berceau: Thank Wal-Mart for the Loss of 240 Madison-based Rubbermaid Jobs Category: Labor and Employment
State Rep. Terese Berceau (D-Madison) decried the decision by Newell Rubbermaid to end 240 Madison jobs as part of a three-year plan to shed 5,000 workers and close one-third of its factories, but placed much of blame squarely on Wal-Mart. Rubbermaid’s economic problems date from 1994, when the... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Sen. Erpenbach: Joins Bi-Partisan Call for Ethics Reform Category: Politics
State Senator Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) joined with Governor Doyle and a bi-partisan group of legislators to announce an ethics reform package. Along with continued support of SB 1-a merger of the Ethics and Elections Board that passed the Senate in November, highlights of the package include... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Letter to Chicago Mayor About Olympics Category: Strong Communities
I was very excited to read about your interest in having Chicago host the 2016 Summer Olympics. I agree whole heartedly with your comments regarding the regional benefits the Summer Olympics would produce. I want you to know that Milwaukee civic and business leaders would welcome the opportunity... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Rep. Pocan: Applauds Governor's Bipartisan Ethics Reform Package Category: Politics
State Representative Mark Pocan (D-Madison) today joined Governor Jim Doyle, Representative Steve Freese (R-Dodgeville), and Senators Mike Ellis (R-Neenah) and Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) in calling for a reform package that would restore public confidence in state government. The package... more...
Jan 5, 2006 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Fact Sheet on the Lobbying and Ethics Reform Act Category: Politics
In July 2005, Senator Russ Feingold introduced S. 1398, the Lobbying and Ethics Reform Act. Senator Feingold’s legislation includes the following provisions: Bans Gifts to Members and Staff The bill prohibits lobbyists from giving gifts to Members or staff. Includes exceptions for family members... more...
Jan 5, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Signs Legislation Strengthening Arrest Requirements in Domestic Abuse Cases Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today signed Assembly Bill 436, which updates and clarifies Wisconsin's domestic abuse laws by strengthening arrest requirements. "Victims of domestic violence shouldn't have to fear that they will be arrested for merely defending themselves," Governor Doyle said. "This... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Ryan and Green Should Finally Do the Right Thing & Clean Campaigns of Dirty DeLay Cash Category: Politics
While Congressman Paul Ryan said today that he donated to charity a $949 campaign contribution from indicted Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack Abramoff, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin once again called on both Ryan and Congressman Mark Green to clean their campaigns of more than $55,000 in... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Signs 15 Bills into Law Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle signed 15 bills into law at a ceremony this morning in the Governor's Conference Room at the State Capitol. Two of the bills the Governor signed will promote economic development in Wisconsin. Assembly Bill 464 assists cities and counties in the cleanup of additional... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Nusbaum Campaign: Abramoff Is the Latest Example of Washington Corruption Category: Crime and Justice
Nancy Nusbaum, Democratic candidate for the open 8th Congressional District seat, said that lobbyist Jack Abramoff’s guilty plea yesterday of fraud, tax evasion and conspiracy is the latest example of the culture of corruption, lies and deceit out of Washington. “We need to change our... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Rep. Pocan: Announced Introduction of Blog Category: Politics
State Representative Mark Pocan (D-Madison) today launched a blog to share his insights on Wisconsin government. “I have a wonderful job working as a state legislator. But so often what I read in the newspaper or hear on the radio or television represents only a fraction of what actually happens... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Rep. Pocan: Statement on Electronic Paper Trail Bill Becoming Law Category: Civil Rights
“Governor Doyle today signed Assembly Bill 627 into law. Now known as 2005 Wisconsin Act 92, this new law will require electronic voting machines to create a paper record of each vote, thus providing an auditable paper ballot to confirm election results. The paper ballot will also count as the... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Rep. Molepske: Open Government Act Puts Public on Same Playing Field as Special Interests Category: Politics
Representative Louis J. Molepske, Jr. (D-Stevens Point) introduced legislation that prohibits legislators from refusing to share legislative drafts with the public after disclosing them to special interest lobbyists. The legislation comes after a citizen request for bill drafts was denied even... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Sen. Robson: Asks Farm Bureau to Endorse Action Plan for Affordable Health Care Category: Health Care
Following the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s announcement that affordable health care is its number one priority in 2006, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson asked the group to endorse legislation that sets a timetable and targets for bringing down health care costs. “As a registered nurse and one of... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Winnebago County Dem. Party: WCDP Public Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) Community Forum Rescheduled Category: Health Care
Before the regular January meeting, the Winnebago County Democratic Party will host a community forum covering the new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. The forum scheduled for last month was snowed out. “Candice Corbett, Benefits Specialist for Winnebago County, has once again agreed... more...
Jan 4, 2006 Gov. Doyle: Announces City of Milwaukee to Join BadgerRX Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that the City of Milwaukee will join the State of Wisconsin in its prescription drug program, BadgerRx. "I'm really pleased that the city of Milwaukee is joining with the state to generate significant savings for taxpayers," Governor Doyle said. Through... more...
Jan 4, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Don's Well Drilling of Boscobel to Pay Up to $75,000 Over Violations Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that two residential well drillers, Donald D. Kirschbaum, Jr. and Dean A. Kirschbaum, doing business as Don's Well Drilling of Boscobel, Wisconsin, have agreed to pay up to $75,000 in forfeitures and costs to resolve a lawsuit brought by the... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Waukesha County Dems: Scott Newcomer, Republican State Assembly Candiate, Accused of Class 1 Felony Category: Crime and Justice
Scott Newcomer, a candidate in the January 10th special election for the 33rd State Assembly District in western Waukesha County, voted from a vacant lot in the city of Delafield in the primary held last month. Newcomer was voter number 70 at his city of Delafield polling place voting from an... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Walker: Green Should Return Dirty DeLay Money Category: Politics
With Republicans now even calling on Congressman Mark Green to return campaign contributions he accepted from the indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin is once again calling on Green and Congressman Paul Ryan to clean their campaigns of the more than... more...
Jan 3, 2006 A.G. Lautenschlager, Sen. Decker: Call for ID Theft Legislation Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager and State Senator Russ Decker (D-Schofield) announced today that they are working on introducing legislation to protect consumers against identity theft. “Identity theft is the fastest growing financial crime in the country,” Lautenschlager said. “This... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Rep. Black: Bill Will Allow Public to See Economic Interest Statements Anonymously Category: Politics
The public would no longer have to let elected officials and other state leaders know when they examine public records about potential conflicts of interest under legislation introduced today by Representative Spencer Black. This month, the state Ethics Board plans to launch a website to make it... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Wall Campaign: United Association of Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 400 Endorses Jamie Wall for Congress Category: Politics
Democratic Candidate for Congress Jamie Wall today received the endorsement of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 400. “Jamie Wall is on the right side of the issues important to working families,” said Mark Buss, Local 400 Business Manager. “Jamie has a proven track record of bringing... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Progressive Patriots Fund: Senator Russ Feingold to Travel to Vermont and Hold Joint Listening Session with Bernie Sanders Category: Politics
Senator Russ Feingold announced today that he will travel to Vermont to support the Senate campaign of Congressman Bernie Sanders. The two will hold a joint listening session and meet with Vermont political activists. “Bernie Sanders is a dedicated public servant, and will make an outstanding US... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Dept. of Commerce: Gov. Doyle Announces $1.1 Million in State Shelter Subsidy Grants Category: Strong Communities
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that 39 Wisconsin agencies will receive $1.1 million in awards through the State Shelter Subsidy Grant program administered by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. Statewide, the grants will provide over 489,000 nights of shelter in 2006. "With this funding, we... more...
Jan 3, 2006 Gov. Doyle: To Host Town Hall in Merrill on January 4 Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle will host the first in a series of town hall meetings in Merrill on Wednesday, January 4, 2006 as he prepares for his "State of the State" Address later this month. The town hall in Merrill will be held from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the Merrill public library.... more...
Dec 30, 2005 Stellmacher Sees Potential for Real Property Tax Relief Category: Spending & Taxes
State Assembly Candidate John Stellmacher (D-43) has announced his support for AB 565, known in the State Senate as SB 260, the Home Owner’s Property Exemption (HOPE). The legislation, introduced by Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson and Senator Russ Decker, would decrease an average tax bill... more...
Dec 29, 2005 Senators Robson, Decker: Ask for Hearing on HOPE Bill Category: Spending & Taxes
As homeowners across Wisconsin pay their 2005 property tax bills, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson and Senator Russ Decker are asking for a public hearing on legislation that would cut the average tax bill by $569. The Home Owner’s Property Exemption (HOPE) bill exempts the first $60,000 of a... more...
Dec 29, 2005 Byrne Campaign: As New Criminal Trials for Legislative Leaders Near, Candidate Byrne’s No Frills Campaign offers Change in Madison Category: Politics
With state legislative leaders from both parties having either been found guilty of or facing trial for criminal activity in the legislature, 33rd District State Assembly candidate Patrick Byrne called for changes to stem the tide of political corruption in Madison. Byrne is a longtime resident... more...
Dec 24, 2005 Rep. Grigsby: Selected for Prestigious Fellowship Category: Politics
State Representative Tamara Grigsby (D-Milwaukee), was recently selected as a Fellow by the Flemming Leadership Institute, a program that trains emerging state legislators from across the 50 states. Grigsby joins a diverse, bipartisan group of 38 legislators in their first or second terms in... more...
Dec 24, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Wisconsin to Receive $24,899 in Settlement Over AIDS Drug Serostim Category: Health Care
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager and the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units (NAMFCU) announced that the Medicaid programs of 42 states and the District of Columbia recovered and distributed almost $262 million dollars as a result of a settlement with Serono, S.A., a Swiss... more...
Dec 24, 2005 Byrne Campaign: Holiday Gift Ideas for the 33rd Assembly District Category: Politics
Christmas and Chanukah are almost here so everyone, even politicians and reporters, are beginning to shift their focus for a few days to celebrating this joyous season. A big part of that celebration is giving gifts to family and friends. I’m a movie buff so I thought — as a practical way to wish... more...
Dec 22, 2005 Sen. Robson: What to Put Under the GOP Tree Category: Politics
Looking for the perfect gift for that special someone on your list? If that special someone is a Republican leader of the Wisconsin Legislature, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson offers her top 10 list of gift ideas for you: A reading lamp: To better read the newspaper editorials from across... more...
Dec 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Latest Regarding Patriot Act Reauthorization Category: Civil Rights
"Today is a victory for the American people and the bipartisan group of Senators who have been fighting against efforts to extend the Patriot Act permanently without protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens. I am pleased that the Republican leadership backed down from their irresponsible... more...
Dec 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Secures $74.95 Million in Federal Defense Spending for Wisconsin Category: Homeland Defense
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl announced today that Wisconsin businesses and projects stand to receive $74.95 million in federal dollars as part of the fiscal year 2006 Appropriations Bill for the Department of Defense (DoD). The Senate passed the Defense Department’s Appropriations Bill late last... more...
Dec 22, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Building Commission Takes Action to Increase Funding for Veterans' Home Loans Category: Veteran Affairs
The State of Wisconsin Building Commission, chaired by Governor Jim Doyle, voted unanimously yesterday to authorize the issuance of up to $68 million in general obligation bonds for home mortgage loans to qualified veterans under the State's Veterans' Home Loan Program. "It gives me great... more...
Dec 22, 2005 Reps. Grigsby, Black and Sen. Coggs: Legislators Request Task Force on African-American Incarceration Rate Category: Crime and Justice
Sixteen legislators have called on Governor Doyle to create a task force to address the disproportionately high rate of incarceration of African-Americans in Wisconsin. Several of those same legislators held a press conference today outside the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Attending the press... more...
Dec 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on Extension of Patriot Act Category: Civil Rights
I have no problem with a five week extension of the expiring provisions of the Patriot Act. In fact, I prefer the shortest extension possible so that we can fix the current, overly broad parts of the Patriot Act as soon as possible. No one should make the mistake of thinking that a shorter... more...
Dec 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Secures $7.2 Million for Wisconsin Defense Manufacturing Programs Category: Homeland Defense
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl announced that he has secured $7.2 million for two defense projects spearheaded in Wisconsin to help equip the U.S. armed services and retain manufacturing jobs as part of the FY2006 Defense Appropriations Bill. The FY 2006 Defense Appropriations Bill was passed by the... more...
Dec 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Supported Provisions Included in Defense Authorization Bill Category: Homeland Defense
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold announced today that several provisions he authored were included in the final version of the Defense Department policy bill passed by the Senate yesterday. The bill now heads to the President for signature. The Feingold-supported provisions put in the Defense... more...
Dec 22, 2005 Winnebago Co. Dems: Petri Has One Last Chance to Save Christmas for Winnebago's Poor Category: Working Families
Today's passage by Vice President Cheney's tie-breaking vote of a bill that would slash Medicare, Student Loans and Child Support Collection funds aiding the neediest among us gives the opportunity for Rep. Tom Petri to finally do the right thing for Winnebago County and the 6th... more...
Dec 21, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Calls MILC Extension a Victory for Wisconsin Dairy Farmers Category: Agriculture
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl today called the two year extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) a victory for Wisconsin’s Dairy farmers. The MILC program extension was included in the budget reconciliation conference report, which was passed by the Senate today. The House passed the budget... more...
Dec 21, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on Artic Refuge Provision Within the Defense Appropriations Bill from the Senate Floor Category: Environment
Mr. President, I hope that today the Senate will side with its rules, its history, and its future, when it is time for this body to go on record as to whether it is ok to break the rules to do something that you can’t otherwise get done. As my colleagues know, Mr. President, I do not support... more...
Dec 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Signs Bill Creating a Charitable Income Tax "Check Off" for Multiple Sclerosis Programs Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle today signed Senate Bill 167, creating a charitable income tax "check off" to benefit multiple sclerosis programs in Wisconsin. The bill allows people to designate right on their tax return a donation or a portion of their refund to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) programs in... more...
Dec 21, 2005 Dane County Exectuive Falk: Announces Funds for Tornado Relief Category: Strong Communities
Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today that $60,000 in grant funds are available to help towns, villages and cities pay for tornado debris removal costs. The storm, which occurred in late August 2005, affected the Towns of Dunn, Pleasant Springs, Christiana, Rutland, Dunkirk, and a... more...
Dec 21, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Hails Senate Passage of his Child Support Pass Through Provisions Category: Working Families
Today U.S. Senator Herb Kohl praised the Senate for adopting many elements of his the Child Support Distribution Act (S.321) in the budget reconciliation conference report but expressed concerns that cuts contained in the same bill could minimize many of the benefits of that act. S.321 allows... more...
Dec 21, 2005 Kagen Campaign: To Report More than $1.2 Million in Cash on Hand Category: Politics
Doctor Steve Kagen today said he will report more than $1.2 million cash on hand this calendar year in his outsider race for U.S. Congress, saying that several hundred individuals have given generously to his campaign to chart a new course for Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District. “People who... more...
Dec 21, 2005 Falk Campaign: Sprinkler Fitters Endorsement for Attorney General Category: Politics
Sprinkler Fitters Local 183 UA has endorsed Kathleen Falk for Attorney General. “Kathleen Falk is an outstanding leader, a strong fighter for working men and women and a person of integrity,” said Chris Schoenbeck, a leader in Local 183. “Her record of achievement and accomplishment as assistant... more...
Dec 20, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Statement on Denied FEMA Funding for Tornado-Devastated Areas Category: Strong Communities
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) issued the following statement today after receiving news that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has denied the state of Wisconsin's appeal for federal assistance following a string of severe storms and tornados that tore through Vernon and Richland Counties... more...
Dec 20, 2005 Madison Mayor Cieslewicz: “It Was a Very Good Year”: National Awards Pile up for Madison in 2005 Category: Strong Communities
Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said today that increasing numbers of national publications are reporting what Madisonians already know: that their city is one of the best places in America to live or do business. The city received numerous awards in 2005 in publications ranging from USA Today to Forbes to... more...
Dec 20, 2005 Sens. Jauch, Miller: Blast FEMA Decision to Deny Aid for Stoughton Area Tornados Category: Strong Communities
Two state lawmakers, State Senator Bob Jauch (D-Poplar) and State Senator Mark Miller (D-Monona), have angrily denounced FEMA’s decision to refuse disaster assistance for the August tornadoes that ravaged southern Wisconsin, killing one and injuring 20. "I am disappointed and dismayed at FEMA's... more...
Dec 20, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Presents DOJ Grants to Five Wisconsin Community Health OrganizationsFor More Information Contact: Category: Health Care
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager presented Wisconsin Department of Justice grants ranging from $2,856 to $63,000 to five Wisconsin health organizations at a ceremony at her Capitol office today. “These health organizations represent diverse communities in the State of Wisconsin, each taking... more...
Dec 20, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Joins Green Bay Packers' Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila to Sign Assembly Bill 501 Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today signed Assembly Bill 501, which changes the way corrections are made to marriage certificates, providing the means for incorrect information on a marriage certificate to be completely replaced. Governor Doyle was joined by Green Bay Packer Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, known to... more...
Dec 20, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Presents $5,000 Grant to Wisconsin Alliance for Fire Safety Category: Strong Communities
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today presented a $5,000 Wisconsin Department of Justice grant check to the Wisconsin Alliance for Fire Safety. The presentation was made at a ceremony at her Capitol office. The Wisconsin Alliance for Fire Safety promotes fire safety and burn prevention and... more...
Dec 20, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Appoints Dave Clausen to the State Natural Resources Board Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced he will appoint Amery Veterinarian Dave Clausen to the state Natural Resources Board. Clausen will fill the seat of long-term Board Member Herb Behnke, who announced his retirement will be no later than February 1, 2006. "Herb Behnke has been a tireless servant... more...
Dec 20, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Appoints Tim Moore as Sheriff in Polk County Category: Strong Communities
Governor Jim Doyle announced the appointment today of Tim Moore as Sheriff in Polk County. Moore, currently a Lieutenant who has served in the Polk County Sheriff's Department for the past 14 years, will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Ann Hraychuck. "Lieutenant Moore has the... more...
Dec 20, 2005 DNC Launches “America Deserves The Truth” Video Category: Foreign Policy
Amid new reports that President Bush may have illegally ordered the National Security Agency to spy on Americans, a widening credibility gap, a growing list of unanswered questions facing the already scandal-plagued Bush White House, tonight the President will attempt to change the subject. In... more...
Dec 19, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Filing of Civil Charges for Environmental Violations at Fond du Lac Real Estate Development Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced that her office has filed civil cases against two Fond du Lac companies for their alleged violations of erosion control laws at a residential real estate project known as the "Spring Lakes Estates subdivision." The defendants are BASM, LLC and C.D.... more...
Dec 19, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces He Will Sign Repeal of Gas Tax Indexing Category: Spending & Taxes
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that he intends to sign legislation repealing Wisconsin's automatic gas tax indexing. Governor Doyle made the following statement: "Gas prices have taken a significant toll on every family budget in Wisconsin. As Governor, I have done everything in my power to... more...
Dec 19, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl, U.S. Rep. Moore: Secure $4.4 Million for Defense Projects in Milwaukee Category: Homeland Defense
Today Senator Herb Kohl and Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced that the Senate-House appropriations conference report that funds the Department of Defense includes $4.4 million for research projects in the Milwaukee area. Included in the fiscal year 2006 appropriations bill was $2.5 million for... more...
Dec 19, 2005 Democrats Agree With Gard: 8th CD Beware of Carpetbaggers! Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Executive Director Michael Murphy said today that a recent fundraising mailing by Dane County resident and homeowner John Gard alleging “outsider” influence in the 8th Congressional District race in northeast Wisconsin raises “important issues about the tens of... more...
Dec 18, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Proposal to Protect Domestic Violence Victims Passes House Category: Civil Rights
Late this afternoon in the midst of a rare weekend session, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill which included a modified version of Congresswoman Gwen Moore's (D-WI) SHIELD Act which would help protect victims of domestic abuse residing in federally-funded domestic violence shelters.... more...
Dec 18, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Responds to the President's Radio Address Category: Civil Rights
United States Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) made the following statement today in response to the President’s weekly radio address. The statement is available as a radio actuality at the following number: 800-511-0763, Code 4945. The text follows: “Yesterday morning, Republican and Democratic... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on Extending Debate on the Reauthorization of the USA PATRIOT Act Category: Civil Rights
The bipartisan vote this morning to extend debate on the Patriot Act should be a strong signal to the White House that the American people believe that we can fight terrorism while protecting our freedoms. I am very proud to be part of a bipartisan coalition working together to strengthen... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Need for Fundamental Lobby Reform Category: Politics
Earlier this year I introduced legislation, the Lobbying and Ethics Reform Act of 2005, to fundamentally reform the "business as usual" lobbying practices in Washington - building on legislation that had been introduced by Representatives Meehan and Emanuel in the House. Reports of Members of... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Takes Spot on Senate Intelligence Committee Category: Homeland Defense
It was announced today that Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) will become the newest member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Feingold will be taking the committee slot vacated by Senator Jon Corzine (D-NJ), who was elected to be the next Governor of New Jersey last month. Feingold will... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Statement of U.S. Senator Russ Feingold Honoring Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
Mr. President, I rise with great sadness to pay tribute to one of Wisconsin, and the nation’s, great public servants: William Proxmire. Senator Proxmire passed away early this morning, at the age of 90. He was, simply put, a legend in Wisconsin, a man who represented the very best of our state,... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Remarks as the Senate Considers Ending Debate on Reauthorization of the USA PATRIOT Act Category: Civil Rights
Mr. President, on Wednesday evening, I laid out in detail my concerns about the Patriot Act reauthorization bill that we are now considering on the floor. In its current form, I cannot support the conference report, and I cannot consent to limit debate on it. The leaders of this Congress need to... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Priases Proxmire on the Senate Floor Category: Politics
Today U.S. Senator Herb Kohl delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor on the death former Senator William Proxmire. “Mr. President, I rise today to mourn the passing and celebrate the life of William Proxmire -- a great Senator, a great Wisconsinite, and a great man. It is particularly... more...
Dec 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on Today's Vote on the PATRIOT Act Category: Civil Rights
I supported the original Patriot Act, I support extending this important law, and we must do so before we go home. However, I cannot support the version of the law before us that is causing such controversy. So while I strongly support reauthorization of the Patriot Act, I will not support... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Sen. Coggs, Rep. Grigsby: State Assembly Approves Asia Jones Bill Category: Working Families
The Asia Jones Bill, which creates penalties for those who are negligent in their care of children at day care facilities, was overwhelmingly approved Thursday by the state Assembly. The legislation, which now goes to the Senate, is in response to the death in summer of 2-year-old Asia Jones, who... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Rep. Vruwink: Supports Rural Families with Ethanol Vote Category: Agriculture
Rep. Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Milladore) applauded the passage of The Ethanol Bill by the Assembly on Thursday. AB 15 would require 87-octane gasoline sold in Wisconsin to contain 10% ethanol, a corn based additive proven to reduce Carbon monoxide emissions. “It is high time we joined our neighboring... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Reps. Hahn, Gronemus: Praising Passage of Ethanol Bill Category: Economy
On a strong bipartisan vote, the state Assembly passed a requirement for regular grade automotive gasoline to have a 10 percent blend of ethanol, according to two co-sponsors of the measure state Representative Eugene Hahn (R-Cambria) and Representative Barbara Gronemus (D-Whitehall). “We have a... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $100,000 Grant to MilwaukeeCares Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle announced today he is awarding a $100,000 grant to the MilwaukeeCares project that will help provide free health care to low income, uninsured individuals in the Milwaukee area. "There is no better way to give people the opportunity to enjoy all that our great state has to... more...
Dec 16, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Meets with Janesville Homeowners Whose Property Tax Bill Went Down This Year Category: Spending & Taxes
After releasing an analysis by the State Budget Office showing that homeowners across the state will see dramatic property tax relief because of the historic property tax freeze he signed into law, Governor Doyle today met with Janesville homeowners who saw a decline in their property tax bill... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Statement on Passing of Former Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today regarding the passing of former Senator William Proxmire, who died early this morning at age 90 after struggling for years with Alzheimer’s disease: “Today, we lost another giant of Wisconsin politics – former... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Byrne Campaign: Post Primary Statement: “Enough is Enough” Category: Spending & Taxes
The voters of the 33rd District are concerned about money. Of course, they are concerned about how their money is taxed and spent by our state government. We hear about that all of the time. But in today’s political “culture of money” voters are even more concerned about the ethics of the people... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Byrne Campaign: Patrick Byrne Launches Campaign Web Site Category: Politics
The campaign of long time Town of Delafield resident Patrick Byrne has announced the launch of his new web site: http://www.4therealchoice.com Commenting on his web site Byrne says: “Voters now and in the future will want and need more information about... more...
Dec 15, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Motion Opposing Cuts to Child Support Enforcement Program Passes Senate Category: Working Families
Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI) today offered a motion to instruct conferees to oppose deep cuts to the Child Support Enforcement program that were included in the House version of the Budget Deficit Reduction Act. The Kohl motion was passed by the Senate today, 75-16. The Senate version of the bill... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Rep. Grigsby: Statement on the Automatic Gas Tax Repeal Category: Spending & Taxes
I feel the pain at the pump every time I fill up, just as much as everyone else. I, too, would like to see gas prices drop, however, the bill that passed the Assembly in the wee hours Wednesday morning will provide only a minimal short term fix to a long term problem. In the 20 years since the... more...
Dec 15, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Contempt Order for Failure to Protect Rock Lake Priority Watershed Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that the Wisconsin Department of Justice has won a contempt order in an environmental enforcement case against Wayne Hensler, a Jefferson County property owner, for failure to comply with the state's non-point source water protection laws. The... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on the Passing of William Proxmire Category: Politics
Governor Doyle today released the following statement on the passing of William Proxmire: "Today is a sad day for Wisconsin, who lost a favorite statesman in William Proxmire. I am deeply saddened, but I also know that the last few years were incredibly difficult for both him and his family, and... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Sen. Robson: Statement on Senator Proxmire Category: Politics
Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson issued the following statement on U.S. Senator William Proxmire: “Senator Proxmire showed what one person can accomplish when they focus like a laser beam on the issues they feel passionately about. One person cannot change the world, but one person can change... more...
Dec 15, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Statement on the Death of Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
“Senator Bill Proxmire was a hero to all Wisconsinites who value honesty, integrity, and common sense in their leaders and in government. He, in turn, expected no less from the citizens of this state. He led by example, whether running to work long before fitness was fashionable or running for... more...
Dec 15, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Passing of Former Wisconsin Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
I am deeply saddened today at the passing of former Wisconsin Senator William Proxmire, a great Wisconsin statesman and a dear friend. Senator Proxmire leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a defender of the American taxpayer and one of the hardest working Senators in U.S. history. Whether he... more...
Dec 15, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on on the Passing of Former Wisconsin Senator William Proxmire Category: Politics
Today, we mourn the loss and celebrate the life of William Proxmire, a great Senator, a great Wisconsinite, and a great man. He was a proud gadfly - the conscience of the Senate - reminding his colleagues daily of the dangers of financial misbehavior, the sins of wasteful spending, and the crime... more...
Dec 15, 2005 Wineke Sends Walker Examples of Property Tax Bill Reductions Category: Spending & Taxes
In response to Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker’s challenge last month to Governor Doyle to produce an average property tax bill anywhere in the state not increasing next year, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today sent Walker some examples of bill reductions, including for... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Green Turns Blind Eye to Staffer’s Involvement with Indicted D.C. Lobbyist Category: Politics
While records show that Congressman Mark Green’s former chief of staff Mark Graul repeatedly took ticket freebies from indicted Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack Abramoff, Green apparently doesn’t find any reason to ask Graul why he took freebies from a man under investigation by the FBI for bribing... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Governor Doyle’s Property Tax Freeze Puts More Money in Senator Schultz’s Pocket Category: Spending & Taxes
Given the success of Governor Doyle’s property tax freeze for homeowners all across Wisconsin, it is no surprise that State Senate Majority Leader Dale Schultz and Senate Republicans are doing what they do best – taking credit for something they didn’t accomplish. In a statement released this... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Gov. Doyle: To Act on Legislation to Promote Medical Research Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle will act on Assembly Bill 270, promoting the donation of newborn umbilical cord blood for the purposes of life-saving research tomorrow, Thursday, December 15, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Governor Doyle will be joined at the event by research... more...
Dec 14, 2005 3rd CD Dems: District GOP Shamefully Wrong Category: Foreign Policy
Last week, the Third District GOP embarrassed itself in a childish press release that wrongfully attacked Congressman Ron Kind. The press release compared the U.S.’s preemptive invasion of Iraq, waged on charges of weapons of mass destruction based on faulty intelligence, to our military action... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Rep. Black: Long Fight to Repeal Gas Tax Hikes Finally Successful Category: Spending & Taxes
When the Assembly passed the repeal of the automatic, annual gas tax hike early Wednesday morning, the long, uphill fight to repeal the tax was finally successful. Rep. Spencer Black, who had introduced legislation to repeal the hike in the last 5 legislative sessions, said that legislative... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Rep. Richards: Democrats Fight to Protect Wisconsin from Extreme Concealed Weapons Bill Category: Crime and Justice
In the wee hours of the night Assembly Democrats fought to provide increased protection for children, families and law enforcement officers during the debate on concealed weapons. Democrats offered several amendments aimed at improving a bill considered by many to be one of the most extreme... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Sen. Coggs, Rep. Grigsby: Asia Jones Day Care Van Bill Moves to Full Assembly Vote Category: Working Families
The state Assembly has scheduled a floor vote for Thursday, Dec. 15 on the Asia Jones Day Care Van Bill. Asia died this past summer after being left in a sweltering day care van. The legislation came at the request of Nicole Jones and Alice Jones, Asia’s mother and grandmother, after no charges... more...
Dec 14, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on President's Speech Wednesday Category: Foreign Policy
“While the President has now given four speeches in the last couple weeks, the American public, the Iraqi people, and our brave troops still don’t have any clarity about the U.S. military mission in Iraq. Tomorrow’s election is a momentous event for Iraqis, and today provided the perfect... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Milwaukee Earns 'World Leadership' Award Category: Working Families
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced today the City of Milwaukee is one of nine cities worldwide to receive a ‘World Leadership’ Award for its model of affordable housing that transforms neighborhoods. The World Leadership Forum issued the award to the City of Milwaukee Housing Authority in a... more...
Dec 14, 2005 Rep. Cullen: Applauds Assembly Action on Automatic Gas Tax Repeal Category: Spending & Taxes
In response to the Assembly’s decision to repeal the automatic gas tax increase, Representative David Cullen (D-Milwaukee) issued the following statement: “I am pleased that after the Assembly voted to pass a concealed weapons bill which endangers both the public and law enforcement, that common... more...
Dec 13, 2005 Analysis Shows Homeowners Will See Dramatic Property Tax Relief Under Governor Doyle’s Freeze Category: Spending & Taxes
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today released the following statement regarding an analysis released yesterday by the State Budget Office that shows that Wisconsin residents across the state will see dramatic property tax relief under Governor Doyle’s property tax freeze:
“This... more...
Dec 13, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Wisconsin Receives $100,000 Grant for Clean Diesel Cooperative Project Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has received $100,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to fund a cooperative project under the National Clean Diesel Campaign, which aims to reduce emissions from non-road, diesel-powered... more...
Dec 13, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Introduces Legislation to Improve 8(a) Minority Business Development Program Category: Civil Rights
Today Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced the introduction of the Minority Owned Venture Empowerment (MOVE) Act, a bill she co-sponsored with Congressman John Barrow (D-GA) and Nydia Velázquez that would restructure and modernize the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) program. "The... more...
Dec 13, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Signs Agreements to Protect Great Lakes Water Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today signed agreements at the Council of Great Lakes Governors' (CGLG) Leadership Summit that will provide unprecedented protections for the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River Basin. The historic agreements, which include a ban on new diversions of water outside of the Basin... more...
Dec 13, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: “Our National Security Policy is Adrift Category: Foreign Policy
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today, in the fifth in a series of speeches he has given on our nation’s national security and the Administration’s flawed policy in Iraq, spoke from the Senate floor on the threat that radical jihadist-based terrorism poses to our nation. Feingold voted against going... more...
Dec 13, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Receives Jefferson County Central Labor Council’s Endorsement for Attorney General Category: Politics
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s campaign announced the endorsement of the Jefferson County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO today. “Peg Lautenschlager has been just excellent on the issues we care about and has always stood with us, “declared President Roger Cluver, “We felt that now is the... more...
Dec 13, 2005 Lt. Gov. Lawton: To Lead 1158th Transportation Company Welcome Home Ceremony Category: Veteran Affairs
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will lead the welcome-home ceremony for soldiers of the 1158th Transportation Company, tomorrow, Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. at Volk Field Air National Guard Base. Major General Al Wilkening, Adjutant General of Wisconsin, local officials, and... more...
Dec 12, 2005 Wall Campaign: Demands Action to Fix Medicare Prescription Plan and Allow Negotiating for Cheaper Drugs Category: Health Care
With seniors struggling with the complexity and unfairness of the new Medicare drug bill, Jamie Wall, Democratic candidate for Congress, today called on Congress to admit its mistake and re-write a law that fails thousands of seniors in Northeast Wisconsin. “We need a prescription drug benefit... more...
Dec 12, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Launches $1 Million Grant Program for Renewable Energy, Fuels, and Products Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today launched the state's first-ever grant program to help develop Wisconsin's bio-based economy. In his 2005 state budget, Governor Doyle committed $1 million to help businesses and individuals develop ways to use plant and animal resources for renewable energy, fuels, or... more...
Dec 12, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Releases Statewide Report on Success of Property Tax Freeze Category: Spending & Taxes
Governor Jim Doyle today released an analysis by the State Budget Office showing that homeowners across the state will see dramatic property tax relief because of the historic property tax freeze he signed into law. The Governor met with homeowners in Madison and West Allis whose bills are... more...
Dec 12, 2005 Rep. Black: Tax Fairness Legislation Introduced Category: Spending & Taxes
Two pieces of legislation to make Wisconsin’s tax system fairer were introduced today. Representative Spencer Black introduced one bill to exempt all medicine from the state sales tax and a second bill to close a major corporate tax break known as the “Las Vegas Loophole.” more...
Dec 9, 2005 AG Candidate JB Van Hollen Compares Abortion to ‘Homicide’ Category: Women's Rights
JB Van Hollen, Republican candidate for Attorney General, today likened abortion to “homicide” during a Wednesday debate in Madison with fellow GOP candidate Paul Bucher. Asked by Wispolitics.com President Jeff Mayers whether “government should be involved in the personal decisions as to whether... more...
Dec 9, 2005 Green, House GOP Defeat Efforts to Increase Heating Assistance for Low-Income Families Category: Working Families
With Wisconsin families facing record natural gas prices and cold weather this winter, Congressman Mark Green and House Republican leaders rejected Democratic efforts this week to increase funding for heating assistance for low-income families.
Green and the House Republican majority... more...
Dec 9, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Rejects Inequitable Tax Bill that Increases the Federal Deficit Category: Spending & Taxes
On the heels of a November spending cut package that cut $50 billion from student aid and critical social services, the House today passed a $56 billion Republican budget reconciliation tax bill that primarily benefits the wealthiest taxpayers while failing to provide long-lasting tax relief to... more...
Dec 9, 2005 Sen. Robson: Applauds Gov, AG Decisions on Lawsuit Against FDA Category: Women's Rights
State Senator Judith B. Robson issued the following statement regarding Governor Jim Doyle’s approval of Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s request to explore a possible lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration over delays in approving Plan B for over-the-counter sales: “The delays by... more...
Dec 9, 2005 Rep. Baldwin: Reflections on 2005 Category: Politics
Despite the hubbub of Thanksgiving through New Year’s activities, this is a good time to reflect on the past twelve months and look ahead to the next. As always, a year holds great joy, deep sorrow, and the vast range of emotions in between. The passage of time reminds us of lingering... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Walker Flip Flops on Concealed Carry to Suit Political Agenda Category: Crime and Justice
Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker has changed his position on concealed carry so many times, it’s hard to keep straight whether he’s for or against carrying hidden guns in Wisconsin this week. But one thing is clear: Walker’s flip-flops have been deliberate moves to further his own... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $10 Million to Help Preserve Affordable Housing Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) has committed another $10 million for the Wisconsin SOS program - "Saving Our Stock" of Affordable Housing, which focuses on Section 8 housing developments. The SOS program was first... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Will Mark Green Follow Radical Budget Cuts with Tax Breaks for the Rich? Category: Spending & Taxes
Following his vote last month to slash $50 billion from programs that help provide educational opportunities, health care, and even basic nutritional assistance to America’s working families, Congressman Mark Green is poised today to pass a radical package of new tax breaks for wealthy investors,... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Kennedy Campaign: It's Time to Help Americans, Too Category: Foreign Policy
While President Bush made his case for his continuing failed policy on Iraq’s reconstruction, he is ignoring the plight of our fellow Americans in the Gulf Coast region who are still trying to put the pieces of their lives back together. These are the same people who Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Sen. Miller: Affordable Health Care is the Real Priority Category: Health Care
Senator Mark Miller (D-Monona) joined a coalition of state lawmakers in holding community meetings around the state to get citizens involved in the creation of a health care solution. The coalition has introduced an Action Plan for Affordable Health Care to hold the legislature accountable for... more...
Dec 8, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement On the Patriot Act Conference Report Category: Foreign Policy
“I will do everything I can, including a filibuster, to stop this Patriot Act conference report, which does not include adequate safeguards to protect our constitutional freedoms. The version of the Patriot Act that was signed today is a major disappointment. I appreciate that it includes... more...
Dec 8, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Announces Wholehearted Endorsement of Sheet Metal Worker’s Local Union #18, AFL-CIO Category: Politics
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager received an enthusiastic endorsement of the Sheet Metal Worker’s International Association Local Union #18, AFL-CIO today. “The officers and the membership of Local Union #18, our 4000 active members and 2000 retirees, wholeheartedly endorse Peg Lautenschlager... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Green Skips House Votes in Washington to Collect Campaign Cash in Wisconsin Category: Politics
Congressman Mark Green likes to talk a lot about working hard in the nation’s capital for Wisconsin families, even though he votes consistently in Washington with the indicted Tom DeLay and the beltway special interests rather than his constituents. Now he’s not even doing his job in... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Average Wausau Homeowner to See Decrease in Property Taxes Category: Spending & Taxes
Governor Jim Doyle today released an analysis showing that the average homeowner in Wausau would see a decrease in property taxes because of the historic property tax freeze he signed into law. Governor Doyle stressed that while there could be a variation from home to home and from community to... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Rep. Colón, Sen. Coggs: Republican Party Chairman Graber Owes Milwaukee Voters an Apology Category: Civil Rights
Representative Pedro Colón and Senator Spencer Coggs were dismayed to read State Republican Party Chairman Rick Graber's statement in response to the finding by U.S. Attorney Steve Biskupic that no evidence exists of a conspiracy to commit voter fraud in Milwaukee during the 2004 Presidential... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Rep. Mark Pocan: State Senate Action on Constitutional Amendment Hurts Wisconsin Families Category: LGBT Issues
“Today the State Senate continued forward with a political move to electrify right wing voters by passing a constitutional amendment banning civil unions and gay marriage. The legislative majority advanced discrimination for their perceived political gain, a move that will ultimately hurt tens... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Sen. Carpenter: State Senate Passes Repeal of Automatic Gas Tax Increases Category: Spending & Taxes
State Senator Tim Carpenter (D--Milwaukee) announced that the State of Wisconsin has finally come closer to ending the state’s automatic increase of the gas tax. “By voting last night to repeal the automatic gas tax index in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Senate has taken a big step toward affirming... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Doyle today made the following statement regarding the anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941: "On this somber anniversary, it is fitting that we remember what happened at Pearl Harbor and recognize the selfless sacrifice of the individuals who served in the... more...
Dec 7, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Reports Strong Third-Quarter Export Growth in Wisconsin Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Wisconsin exports continued to show strong gains through the third quarter of 2005. The nine month total of $11 billion represents an increase of 17.6 percent over the same period in 2004. For the third quarter, U.S. exports grew by 10.6 percent.... more...
Dec 7, 2005 A. G. Lautenschlager: Announces Open Meetings/Public Records Seminar Category: Politics
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced a third round of seminars on Wisconsin’s Open Meetings and Public Records laws will be conducted throughout the state by the Wisconsin Department of Justice. The seminars are designed to assist public and elected officials, law enforcement, members of... more...
Dec 6, 2005 While Walker Supports Bush’s Social Security Scheme, Green Tries to Hide Position In Support of Risky Privatization Plan Category: Seniors
You can at least give Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker credit for having the courage to say he supports the President’s risky plan to privatize Social Security – even as public opposition to the proposal has escalated, forcing Congress to scrap plans to take it up this year.
The... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Winnebago Co. Dems: Announces Public Medicare Part D Community Forum Category: Health Care
Before the regular December meeting, the Winnebago County Democratic Party will host a community forum covering the new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. “We are pleased to announce that Candice Corbett, Benefits Specialist for Winnebago County, has agreed to present.” Jef Hall, WCDP... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Habitat for Hypocrisy: Green Votes in Washington to Cut Low-Income & Military Family Housing Category: Politics
Congressman Mark Green is at it again. Today, Green is trying to claim that he has been a supporter of homeownership efforts in Wisconsin, yet in Washington, he has voted against efforts to provide housing support to low-income families and military families. “Once again, Mark Green is trying to... more...
Dec 6, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Targets Netroots with “Pick a Progressive Patriot” Category: Politics
US Senator Russ Feingold announced today the beginning of an internet event called “Pick a Progressive Patriot,” an online vote to determine who Feingold will financially support next through his leadership committee, the Progressive Patriots Fund. Feingold has selected eleven Congressional... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Statement on Biskupic Report of No Voter Fraud Conspiracy Found in Milwaukee Category: Crime and Justice
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the statement below today after U.S. Attorney Steve Biskupic announced yesterday that a year-long investigation has yielded no evidence of a voter fraud conspiracy in Milwaukee. “We don’t see a massive conspiracy to alter the election in... more...
Dec 6, 2005 First Lady Doyle: To Deliver Prize at Port Edwards Middle School; Will Also Visit Portage Junior High School Category: Education
First Lady Jessica Doyle will visit John Edwards Middle School in Port Edwards at 10:30 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, December 7, 2005 to deliver the middle school prize for the Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? game to a weekly winner. Later in the day, at 1:00 p.m., the First Lady will visit... more...
Dec 6, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Settlement in Middleton Environmental Case Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced that her office has settled a case brought against the City of Middleton and its contractor, Northwestern Stone, LLC, for alleged violations of erosion control laws at a municipal real estate development project on the city's western edge. The lawsuit... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: Letter to Members of the Wisconsin Senate re: AJR 67/SJR 53 Category: LGBT Issues
Please vote against AJR 67/SJR 53. Traditional marriage is legally protected in Wisconsin; no one is attacking it. Attached is a review by the Dane County Corporation Counsel office of the litigation that ensued in Michigan immediately upon that state’s passage of a similar constitutional... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: Letter to Sen. Schultz, Rep. Gard, Re: Opposition to SB 403/AB 763 (License to Carry a Concealed Weapon) Category: Crime and Justice
I write to respectfully ask you to oppose SB 403/AB 763. This bill has several specific problems, which I will describe in some detail, but it also has a major flaw. Its premise that allowing lots of people to carry concealed guns just about anywhere, anytime will improve public safety is... more...
Dec 6, 2005 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: County Board Approves Regulations for Winter Spreading of Liquid Manure Category: Agriculture
The Dane County Board of Supervisors approved an amended version of the Dane County Manure Storage and Utilization Ordinance on Thursday, December 1st. The new regulations require that agricultural producers obtain a county permit before applying stored, pumpable liquid manure on frozen or... more...
Dec 5, 2005 Gov. Doyle: SeniorCare Enrollment Surges 150 Percent as Seniors Make Prescription Drug Choices Category: Seniors
Just two months after Governor Jim Doyle saved the SeniorCare prescription drug benefit by negotiating an agreement with the federal government, Governor Doyle announced today that enrollment is surging as seniors choose between the state's program and Medicare Part D. "SeniorCare is the best... more...
Dec 5, 2005 Rep. Black: Letter to Democratic Members of the State Senate, Re: Gas Tax Indexing Category: Spending & Taxes
Tomorrow, you will have the opportunity to vote to repeal the annual automatic increase in the state tax on gasoline. I am writing to urge you to do so. For many years, I have sought to repeal the automatic increase in gas taxes. Many legislative Democrats, most prominently Senator Tim Carpenter... more...
Dec 5, 2005 Fyrst Campaign: Statement Regarding Voight Campaign Announcement Category: Spending & Taxes
“I welcome Jack Voight into the race for Wisconsin State Treasurer. However, I question his motives for a fourth term. Mr. Voight said he wants to do more with less. Why hasn’t he done more with what he’s had? For 11 years he has done less with less as he has stood by and allowed the office of... more...
Dec 5, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $500,000 to Assist Regal-Beloit Corporation Expand, Create Jobs Category: Labor and Employment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that REGAL-BELOIT CORPORATION (RBC) of Beloit will receive a $500,000 loan from the Department of Commerce to assist with a $5 million investment to establish a training center at its Beloit headquarters. "Through my Grow Wisconsin plan, we are working hard to... more...
Dec 2, 2005 Gov. Doyle Vetoes AB 766, 'Medical Malpractice Caps' Bill Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle today vetoed Assembly Bill 766 regarding medical malpractice caps. He also vetoed Assembly Bill 764, and signed Assembly Bill 765. "Approving a law that would quickly be overturned doesn't do anyone any good," Governor Doyle said. "Instead, I encourage everyone involved in this... more...
Dec 2, 2005 Sen. Robson: Submits Comments on High Health Costs to Congressional Committee for Oak Creek Hearing Category: Health Care
Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson submitted comments for the record as part of a Congressional committee’s public hearing in Oak Creek, Wisconsin today. The House Ways & Means Committee’s Health Subcommittee held a public hearing on a government report that found that eight of the nation’s 10... more...
Dec 2, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Letter to Bush About Withdrawal Category: Foreign Policy
In light of the recent debate over the direction of US policy in Iraq, and specifically comments made yesterday by the head of the Republican National Committee, I am writing to re-emphasize how important it is to our servicemen and women, and to the American public, that you layout a coherent... more...
Dec 2, 2005 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: Nominations Being Sought for 2006 MLKJ Recognition Award Category: Civil Rights
Nominations are being accepted for the 2006 Dane County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recognition Award, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today. The award will be presented at the 21st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. City-County Observance on the evening of Monday, January 16, 2006,... more...
Dec 1, 2005 Governor Doyle Provides Real Leadership With Hearing on Gas and Oil Profits Category: Working Families
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today praising Governor Doyle for his leadership in holding the world’s largest oil and gas companies accountable for the record profits they reaped in the aftermath of recent hurricanes.
Governor Doyle is the... more...
Dec 1, 2005 3rd CD Dems: Zien Needs to Give it Back Now Category: Politics
Today, 3rd Congressional District Democratic Party Chair, Margaret Baecker, issued this statement about Senator Dave Zien’s (R-Eau Claire) continued refusal to give back the $7,500 he incorrectly billed the taxpayers for mileage he incurred over the course of three years. “For over 15 years... more...
Dec 1, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Seeks Authority to File Suit Against FDA Over Delays in Approval of OTC Emergency Contraceptive Category: Women's Rights
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today she is seeking the authority to file a lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its delays in approving an emergency contraceptive pill known as “Plan B,” as an over-the-counter drug which has been pending at the federal agency... more...
Dec 1, 2005 Nusbaum Campaign: Asks Tough Questions of Oil Executives Category: Working Families
Nancy Nusbaum, candidate for the 8th Congressional District, sent questions to Milwaukee today for the five oil executives subpoenaed to testify at a government hearing about oil price gouging. “I would like these executives to explain how fuel prices could spike to record levels while oil... more...
Dec 1, 2005 Sen. Carpenter: Tax Hike Countdown: Only 121 Days Left Before Wisconsin Gas Tax Automatically Increases Category: Working Families
Today, State Senator Tim Carpenter (D--Milwaukee) stated that unless action is taken quickly by the Wisconsin State Legislature that on April 1, 2006, only 121 days away, the motor vehicle fuel tax will automatically increase, without a vote of the Legislature. “This is just plain wrong. The... more...
Dec 1, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Convenes Gas and Oil Profits Hearing in Milwaukee Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today convened an administrative hearing in Milwaukee regarding the unprecedented profits made by the world's five largest oil and gas companies in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Executives from British Petroleum, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, and Shell Oil... more...
Dec 1, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Settlement with Three Companies Over Environmental Violations at Oconomowoc Real Estate Development Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced that her office has settled civil cases brought against Neumann Enterprises, Inc., D.F. Tomasini Contractors, Inc., and New Berlin Grading, Inc., for their alleged violations of erosion control laws at a Waukesha County residential real estate... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Health Insurance Risk Sharing Plan (HIRSP) Legislation Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle today voiced his support for legislation to continue the Health Insurance Risk Sharing Plan (HIRSP). Without action during the December legislative floor period, the HIRSP program would end on January 1, 2006. "This legislation provides important protections for these high-risk... more...
Nov 30, 2005 State Patrol Superintendent Collins: Statement Regarding Concealed Weapons Bill Category: Crime and Justice
The minor change announced today to the concealed weapons bill amounts to window dressing on a very dangerous, unnecessary piece of legislation. Having more people carrying around loaded, hidden weapons under their coats during the holiday season will not make Wisconsin any safer. It could put... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Details of Gas and Oil Profits Hearing Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle announced today the details of the administrative hearing on gas and oil profits being held tomorrow, Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. at the UWM School of Continuing Education in Milwaukee. Executives from the world's five largest oil companies will appear in Milwaukee... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Workforce Advancement Training Grant for Mercury Marine, Moraine Park Technical College Category: Education
Governor Jim Doyle today announced a Wisconsin Technical College System Workforce Advancement Training Grant that will assist Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) in preparing employees at Mercury Marine for the company's implementation of a new business enterprise system. The grant will help... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Receives Rock Solid Endorsement from Winnebago County Labor Council AFL-CIO Category: Politics
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s campaign announced the endorsement of the Winnebago County Labor Council AFL-CIO after members voted unanimously to support her 2006 re-election effort. “We believe the A.G. Lautenschlager has consistently demonstrated a rock solid commitment to Wisconsin’s... more...
Nov 30, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the President's Speech Category: Foreign Policy
“While today’s speech by the President was billed as yet another attempt to lay out a plan for finishing the military mission in Iraq, the only new thing the administration gave the American people was a glossy 35-page pamphlet filled with the same rhetoric we’ve all heard before. Today’s action... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Dept. of Commerce: Gov. Doyle Announces Funding for ABC Computers Category: Economy
Gov. Jim Doyle today announced that ABC Computers, Waupaca, Waupaca County, in the Northeast Wisconsin Regional Economic Partnership (NEWREP) Technology Zone, will receive $250,000 in Technology Zone tax credits. Department of Commerce Secretary Mary P. Burke made the announcement in Waupaca on... more...
Nov 30, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Former Adams Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Secret Videotaping Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that a case has been resolved in which a former City of Adams police officer, Michael Kosobud, had been charged with illegally secretly videotaping three women without their consent. Kosobud pleaded guilty to the charges in Portage County... more...
Nov 30, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Utica Energy Ordered to Pay $76,000 for Air Pollution Violations Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that the Department of Justice has won $76,000 in penalties from Utica Energy, LLC of Oshkosh (formerly known as Algoma Energy,), for air pollution violations. The Winnebago County case went to trial in April and a hearing on penalties was held... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Web Improvements to State's Sex Offender Registry Available Dec. 1 Category: Crime and Justice
As part of Governor Jim Doyle's Sex Offender Apprehension and Felony Enforcement (SAFE) Initiative, Wisconsin citizens will be able to access residential address information online for all sex offenders registered with the Department of Corrections' Sex Offender Registry beginning December 1,... more...
Nov 30, 2005 Gov. Doyle, First Lady Doyle: Announce Public Holiday Tours of Wisconsin's Executive Residence to Begin Next Month Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle and First Lady Jessica Doyle announced today that public holiday tours of Wisconsin's Executive Residence will begin on Thursday, December 8, 2005. "Jessica and I are pleased to welcome people from across the state to tour Wisconsin's Executive Residence," Governor Doyle said.... more...
Nov 29, 2005 Is Mark Green Under Investigation? Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today called on Congressman Mark Green to answer whether he, his campaign manager Mark Graul, or any members of his staff are under investigation by the U.S. Justice Department for taking ticket freebies from indicted Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack... more...
Nov 29, 2005 Nusbaum Campaign: Nusbaum Commends Senate Action on Iraq Category: Foreign Policy
Yesterday, Nancy Nusbaum attended Senator Feingold’s listening session in Suamico and thanked him for moving the dialogue forward on how we can better manage the war in Iraq. Nusbaum praised the actions of the Senate last week in moving forward with demanding accountability in Iraq, and passing a... more...
Nov 29, 2005 Dane Co. Exec. Falk: Testimony in Opposition to AJR 67/SJR 53, the Constitutional Amendment Outlawing Domestic Benefits Category: LGBT Issues
I write to strongly oppose the constitutional amendment, AJR 67/SJR 53, up for hearing in your Committee today. AJR 67/SJR 53 threatens the domestic partner benefits which have been bargained by our unions and Dane County for many years. Moreover, the Dane County Board has recently adopted a... more...
Nov 29, 2005 3rd CD Dems: Hey Mike, Pull Over the Car! Category: Politics
Today, 3rd Congressional District Democratic Party Chair, Margaret Baecker issued this statement about Assembly Majority Leader Mike Huebsch’s (R-West Salem) driving record. “Mike Huebsch and the current Republican leadership are more interested in forcing their ultra right-wing reactionary... more...
Nov 29, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Sexual Predator Petition Filed in Columbia County Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office has filed a petition in Columbia County Circuit Court to have Thomas Chester Miller, 22, civilly committed as a sexually violent person. According to the Department of Justice’s petition, Miller was convicted in January 2004 of... more...
Nov 28, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $500,000 for Chippewa Valley Technical College to Establish Nanotechnology Incubator Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) will receive a $500,000 grant from the Department of Commerce to establish a nanotechnology incubator on their Gateway Manufacturing Technology Center in Eau Claire. Nanotechnology is the study and design of... more...
Nov 28, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Lakeside Health Nursing Home Saved from Closure Category: Health Care
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Lakeside Health nursing home in Chippewa Falls will have a new owner - saving approximately 175 jobs and reviving an important facility in the community. Lakeside had been scheduled to close on January 31, 2006. Governor Doyle directed the Department of... more...
Nov 28, 2005 Wall Campaign: Calls for Rumsfeld to Resign Category: Foreign Policy
Issuing a call for accountability at the highest levels of government, Jamie Wall, Democratic candidate for Congress in Wisconsin’s 8th District, today issued the following statement calling for the resignation of Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld: “Our troops have performed magnificently in... more...
Nov 23, 2005 City of Milwaukee: Mayor to Address Public on 'Green' Vision for Milwaukee Category: Environment
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett is expected to unveil his ‘green’ vision for Milwaukee and discuss recommendations made by the Milwaukee Green Team in a speech on Monday, November 28th 11:30 a.m. at the Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N. Water Street. Business leaders, environmental professionals and... more...
Nov 23, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Opening of New E85 Fueling Station in Eau Claire Category: Agriculture
Governor Jim Doyle announced that the state's newest E85 fueling station will open in Eau Claire today with the assistance of a $20,000 grant from the Department of Administration's Division of Energy to ACE Ethanol. The company is using the grant to help open a total of four additional E85... more...
Nov 23, 2005 Sen. Breske: Health Care Solution Needed in Northwoods Category: Health Care
Senator Roger Breske (D-Eland) held a public forum earlier this week at the Woodruff Town Hall. “Whenever I am in my district meeting with my constituents, knocking on doors, or at events, the issue I hear about more than any other is the rising cost of health care. Every single person in this... more...
Nov 23, 2005 UW-Oshkosh Dems: Rep. Petri's Holiday Greeting to College Students: Enjoy the Largest Cut to Student Loans in U.S. History Category: Education
Last Friday, Representative Tom Petri cast one of two deciding votes in support of the budget reconciliation bill that includes the largest cuts to federal student loan programs in U.S. history. Last week’s budget reconciliation bill includes $14.3 billion in cuts to federal financial assistance... more...
Nov 23, 2005 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Will Sign Lincoln Creek Floodplain Category: Strong Communities
Mayor Tom Barrett will sign into city ordinance the revised map boundaries of the Lincoln Creek floodplain. These revised boundaries will remove over 1500 homes and businesses out of the floodplain and will relieve them of the current requirement of paying additional costs for flood insurance. It... more...
Nov 23, 2005 6th C.D. Dems: Rep. Petri's Thanksgiving Present to Wisconsin's Working Poor: Cut to Food Stamp Program by $700 Million Category: Working Families
Last Friday, Representative Tom Petri cast one of two deciding votes in support of the House Budget Reconciliation bill that cut $700 million from the food stamp program. Food stamps are the major U.S. anti-hunger program helping poor people buy food. Some 25.8 million Americans received food... more...
Nov 22, 2005 GOP’s Reality TV Agenda a Comedy of Errors Category: Economy
Last week, Dale Schultz used his bully pulpit as Senate Majority Leader to discuss his latest idea for creating jobs here in Wisconsin. Apparently, Senate Republicans have turned their eyes to Simon Cowell’s latest reality television show, “American Inventor,” as a means for encouraging job... more...
Nov 22, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Details Wisconsin's Preparedness Plans for Possible Bird Flu Pandemic Category: Homeland Defense
Governor Jim Doyle today outlined the preparedness plans Wisconsin will use in the event of a bird flu pandemic. Health officials have added a second part to Wisconsin's existing plan to address a potential bird flu outbreak here in Wisconsin. "There has been a lot said and written about bird flu... more...
Nov 22, 2005 Rep. Richards: Statement on Mercer Health Report Category: Health Care
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel recently reported on a Mercer Health and Benefits study that concluded that the cost of health care benefits in Wisconsin rose 9% this year. At least 31% more than the national average. Assistant Assembly Democratic Leader Jon Richards issued the following statement... more...
Nov 22, 2005 Sen. Robson: Momentum Builds for Affordable Health Care Category: Health Care
Legislators can no longer ignore the need to bring down health care costs, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson said today following the latest news about health care costs in Wisconsin. “Wisconsin businesses pay 31 percent more than the national average to provide health care coverage to their... more...
Nov 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: On the Warner Music Group Settlement Category: Crime and Justice
Today’s settlement between Attorney General Spitzer and Warner Music Group further shows that there are serious problems of unfair competition such as payola in the radio and concert industries. These payola schemes, now documented to involve at least two of the major record labels and numerous... more...
Nov 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Urges President to Use SOTU to Outline Iraq Policy Category: Foreign Policy
Dear Mr. President: Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution states that the President “shall from time to time give to the Congress Information on the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.” I write to ask that you use... more...
Nov 22, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl and U.S. Rep. Moore: Secure $2.125 Million for Wisconsin Department of Transportation Category: Strong Communities
Today Senator Herb Kohl and Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced that the FY2006 Transportation appropriations bill includes $2.125 million for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) to fund bus acquisitions and other capital needs of forty-eight Wisconsin urban area transit systems.... more...
Nov 22, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $1 Million Transportation Economic Assistance Grant to Madison Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today presented a $1 million Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant check to Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz. The grant provides the state's contribution toward infrastructure improvements which will further the efforts of Mortenson Investment Group and three other... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on General Motors' Decision to Retain Janesville Plant Category: Labor and Employment
Governor Doyle today applauded General Motors Corporation (GM) on their decision to maintain operations at their plant in Janesville. Governor Doyle made the following statement: "I am very pleased that General Motors will maintain production at their Janesville plant - GM's oldest facility. They... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Milwaukee Mayor Barrett: Federal Partners Boost Milwaukee Projects Category: Strong Communities
Mayor Tom Barrett thanked Senator Herb Kohl and Representative Gwen Moore for their partnership on key Milwaukee projects, a partnership that resulted in additional federal funds for some of the city’s key initiatives. Both Rep. Moore and Sen. Kohl announced today more than $3.2 in federal... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Sen. Robson and Reps. Sheridan, Benedict: Legislators Comment on General Motors Announcement Category: Labor and Employment
“I feel for the communities that will be impacted by the nine plant closings and 30,000 layoffs. They have my sincere empathy. This will be a difficult transition for them. Certainly this would have been very difficult for Janesville. But Janesville was spared, and I think that speaks to the... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Wisconsin Citizens Can Submit Questions to Oil Company Executives Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Wisconsin citizens can submit their questions to the executives of the five major oil companies for the hearing scheduled in Milwaukee on December 1, 2005 about the record profits they made in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, as well as the... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Returns from Trade Mission to Germany, Czech Republic and Poland Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle returned late last week from a trade mission to Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland and said contacts between Wisconsin businesses and leaders in the three countries will help grow Wisconsin's economy. "In order for us to grow, we have to have companies in our state that... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Signs Executive Order Directing State Agencies to Conserve Energy Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today signed an Executive Order directing Wisconsin's state agencies to develop and implement energy conservation plans for their facilities. Just as Wisconsin's families are preparing to see a 61 percent increase in the cost of heating their homes this winter, state government... more...
Nov 21, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on General Motors - Janesville Category: Labor and Employment
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold released the following statement today after news that the General Motors plant in Janesville will not be closed as part of GM’s “Major Capacity Turnaround Plan.” "General Motors has been an integral part of my hometown of Janesville for generations -- my grandfather,... more...
Nov 21, 2005 UW-Madison College Democrats: Wisconsin’s Congressional Republicans Vote to Cut Student Aid by $14.3 Billion Category: Education
Last week, in the midst of soaring tuition at the University of Wisconsin- Madison, Wisconsin’s four Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives showed a complete lack of concern for the hardship of UW students. By voting for last week’s House Republican Budget Bill, Representatives... more...
Nov 21, 2005 Dept. of Commerce: Gov. Doyle Announces Funding for Aquasensors, LLC Category: Economy
Gov. Jim Doyle today announced that AquaSensors, Inc., Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County will receive a $100,000 loan from the Department of Commerce (Commerce) Technology Venture Fund (TVF) program. "Through my Grow Wisconsin initiative, we are helping entrepreneurs develop new businesses to... more...
Nov 18, 2005 Green Tries to Hide From Washington History of Record Federal Deficits, Fiscal Mismanagement Category: Politics
In true Washington fashion, Congressman Mark Green is once again trying to say one thing in Wisconsin and do another in Washington.
After voting in the middle of the night for a harmful House GOP budget that slashes programs vital to working families and the poor, Green today is trying to... more...
Nov 18, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Calls Budget Bill “Heartless” Category: Working Families
“This bill punishes sick children, struggling students, and their hard-working parents to pay for tax cuts for a wealthy few,” said an angry Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin on passage last night, by two votes, of the Republican budget reconciliation bill which slashes 50 billion dollars in federal... more...
Nov 18, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on Reauthorization of the USA Patriot Act Category: Civil Rights
I am proud to join my colleagues from the Senate and the House, Republicans and Democrats, in calling on the members of the USA PATRIOT Act conference committee to give us a bill that we can support – a bill that makes reasonable changes to the Patriot Act to safeguard Americans’ civil liberties.... more...
Nov 18, 2005 DPW: Out-of-Touch Mark Green Turns his Back on Wisconsin Families Category: Spending & Taxes
Congressman Mark Green turned his back on Wisconsin families today after he cast the deciding vote to approve a harmful House Republican budget that cuts programs vital to college students, working families, and the poor. Despite 14 moderate Republicans joining House Democrats in opposing the... more...
Nov 18, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Opposes Irresponsible Budget Plan that Worsens Federal Bottom Line, Threatens Vital Services & Cuts Student Aid Category: Spending & Taxes
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI), a member of the House Budget Committee, voted against a Republican budget plan that includes deep cuts to vital government services and a tax plan that worsens the federal deficit. The controversial budget bill, which passed the House 217-215 in the dead of the night,... more...
Nov 18, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Fitness Club Operator to Pay $4,470 for Consumer Violations Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today her office has obtained a consent judgment against the fitness center operator running the Wisconsin Health & Fitness clubs in Germantown and Grafton. Wisconsin Health & Fitness was ordered to pay $4,470 for consumer protection violations. The... more...
Nov 17, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Testifies on Need for Expanded Child Tax Credit Category: Working Families
Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin testified today before the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures urging passage of her bill that would extend eligibility of the existing child tax credit to families with 17 and 18 year old children. Baldwin introduced the Child Tax Credit for... more...
Nov 17, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl, Reps. Baldwin, Kind and Obey: Secure $400,000 for the Wisconsin Procurement Institute Category: Economy
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl and U.S Reps. Dave Obey, Tammy Baldwin and Ron Kind announced that the FY2006 Science, State, Justice, & Commerce conference report approved last week in the House and this week in the Senate includes $400,000 for the Wisconsin Procurement Institute (WPI). WPI is a... more...
Nov 17, 2005
Democrats Stand United in Defeating Harmful House GOP Spending Bill
Category: Spending & Taxes
Democratic Party of Wisconsin State Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today after Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives were joined by 22 moderate Republicans in defeating a GOP spending bill that cuts millions from education initiatives, health care programs, community...
Nov 17, 2005
Lautenschlager Campaign: Receives Fox Valley Union's Endorsement
Category: Politics
Wisconsin Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s campaign announced the endorsement of members of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 400 Fox River Valley today. Members voted unanimously to endorse and support the reelection of the democratic incumbent Attorney General. Citing Lautenschlager’s, “No...
Nov 17, 2005
Less Than One-Third of Wisconsinites Believe Country on Right Track Under Bush, GOP
Category: Politics
Less than one-third of Wisconsin residents believe the country is on the right track under the leadership of President George W. Bush and Republicans in Washington, according to a new poll released today by Wisconsin Public Radio and St. Norbert College Survey Center.
Only 29 percent of...
Nov 16, 2005 Will Mark Green Side with Students by Rejecting Republicans' $14.3 Billion in Student Aid Cuts Category: Education
With the House still expected to vote later this week on a budget reconciliation bill, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today called on Congressman Mark Green to side with Wisconsin’s college students and reject a GOP budget that attempts to raid $14.3 billion from federal student... more...
Nov 16, 2005 Sen. Robson: Asks General Motors CEO to Keep Janesville Plant Open Category: Labor and Employment
In a letter to General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner, Senator Judy Robson reminded the company of the investment the State of Wisconsin has made in the Janesville manufacturing plant. Robson, who represents Janesville in the State Senate, asked Wagoner to keep the plant open, echoing the request made... more...
Nov 16, 2005 Sen. Robson: Calls on Schultz, Gard to Add Affordable Health Care to “Invest Wisconsin” Proposal Category: Health Care
Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson called on Senate Majority Leader Dale Schultz and Assembly Speaker John Gard to add affordable health care to their “Invest Wisconsin” proposal. “Out-of-control health care costs are the number one problem facing Wisconsin businesses, and the number one reason... more...
Nov 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Pledges to Fight Final PATRIOT Act Reauthorization Category: Civil Rights
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today released the following statement on the Patriot Act conference report, scheduled to come to the Senate floor as early as this week. “Reports out of the PATRIOT Act reauthorization conference committee are extremely troubling. In July, members on both sides of the... more...
Nov 16, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Older Worker Amendment Included in Approved Senate Pension Bill Category: Seniors
A task force charged with identifying obstacles for older workers wishing to stay on the job and recommending solutions will be created under a provision inserted into the Senate pension bill by Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI). The provision is modeled after one component of the Older Worker Opportunity... more...
Nov 16, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: House Financial Services Committee Passes Moore's SHIELD Act Category: Crime and Justice
This morning the House Committee on Financial Services passed by a unanimous voice vote the Safe Housing Identity Exemption for the Lives of Domestic Violence Victims (SHIELD) Act, a bill introduced by Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-WI) earlier this year. The bill, co-sponsored by Ranking Committee... more...
Nov 16, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Asks NHTSA to Expand GMC Recall of SUVs With Faulty Brakes Category: Strong Communities
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today she has urged the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to exhort General Motors Corporation (GMC) to expand its recall of SUVs nationwide, so all owners of suspect vehicles can be notified of this problem and the necessary... more...
Nov 16, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $29 Million to Help Category: Homeland Defense
Governor Jim Doyle today announced $29 million to help improve emergency services throughout the state. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC), after reviewing county and wireless provider's applications, has determined the eligible amount of grant money for each applicant. These... more...
Nov 15, 2005 With More Than 1,000 Organizing Events Nationwide, Democrats Kick Off Election Season Category: Politics
In an unprecedented display of nationwide grassroots organizing almost one year before the mid-term elections, Democrats in every state in the Union are hosting more than 1,000 separate events across the country tonight to participate in the National Organizing Kickoff. Almost 30 organizing... more...
Nov 15, 2005 It’s Not Easy Being Extreme: Green Touts Support from Ultra Right-Wing Group Category: Politics
In yet another display of his extreme colors, Congressman Mark Green today is touting his pandering to an ultra right-wing conservative group that has dedicated itself to outlawing contraception, overturning the right to abortion, and discriminating against gays and lesbians. Green today lauded... more...
Nov 15, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Stands Ready to Help with Medicare Rx Enrollment Category: Health Care
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) announced today that his office is standing by to help those who qualify for the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit by providing them with basic information about the program in addition to referrals to organizations that can help qualifying beneficiaries choose... more...
Nov 15, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: On Senate Votes on Redeploying Troops from Iraq November 15, 2005 Category: Foreign Policy
I am pleased that 40 members of the US Senate have gone on record demanding a flexible timetable for achieving our military mission in Iraq and withdrawing our troops. They recognize what increasing numbers of military leaders and experts are saying – that having such a timeline will help us... more...
Nov 15, 2005 Rep. Pocan: Bipartisan Request to Governor for Special Session on Paper Trail Reform Measure Category: Civil Rights
State Representatives Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Steve Freese (R-Dodgeville) today called on Governor Jim Doyle to call the Legislature into Special Session during the week of December 5th when the Senate plans to meet in order to send Assembly Bill 627 to his desk. The bill, authored by Pocan,... more...
Nov 15, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Wisconsin Receives $500,000 NGA Grant to Expand Advanced Placement Participation in High Schools Category: Education
First Lady Jessica Doyle announced today that Wisconsin will receive a two-year, $500,000 grant from the National Governors Association (NGA) to expand Advanced Placement (AP) participation in Wisconsin's high schools, with a particular emphasis on disadvantaged and underserved students. "We want... more...
Nov 15, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Community Relocation Initiative Success Category: Seniors
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that the Department of Health and Family Services is on target to move 1,440 people out of nursing homes and into community-based settings over the next two years as called for in his Community Relocation Initiative. "We owe our senior citizens the best care and... more...
Nov 14, 2005 Wall Campaign: Congress Should Recognize Veterans Day by Passing a GI Bill for the 21st Century Category: Veteran Affairs
“On this Veterans Day, I offer my sincere thanks to our troops and our veterans. My father was a Korean War veteran. The original GI Bill, which supported returning troops by providing them with home loans, medical assistance, and educational benefits, was our great country’s thanks for his... more...
Nov 14, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Agreement with Western Union Over Fraud-Induced Money Transfers Category: Crime and Justice
Wisconsin Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that Western Union Financial Services, Inc., has entered into an agreement with Wisconsin and 46 other States and the District of Columbia, in response to concerns about the use of the company’s wire transfer services by fraudulent... more...
Nov 14, 2005 Rep. Pocan: Two Bills to Limit Wal-Mar & Other Box Box Stores' Corporate Welfare Eyed by Pocan Category: Strong Communities
State Representative Mark Pocan (D-Madison) announced today he will introduce two bills that would limit corporate giant Wal-Mart and other big box stores’ ability to feed off the government dole. One bill would cap the amount of sales tax collected that a business can retain from the current... more...
Nov 14, 2005 Sen. Robson: GM Vote Shows Need for Legislative Action Category: Health Care
Wednesday’s vote by Janesville General Motors workers to give up part of a pay raise in order to keep their health insurance benefits is yet another example of why Wisconsin needs health care reform, said Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson (D-Beloit). “Wisconsin’s working families put a face on... more...
Nov 11, 2005 WI Democrats Honor Our Veterans, Call On Republicans in Washington to Do The Same Category: Veteran Affairs
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today issued the following statement honoring America’s veterans and urging President Bush and Wisconsin’s Congressional Republicans to join Democrats in fighting for the brave men and women in uniform who have served our country:
“This Veterans... more...
Nov 11, 2005 State Senator Lena Taylor Named First Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin Category: Politics
State Senator Lena Taylor has been named the new 1st Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, State Chair Joe Wineke announced today.“We’re very excited to bring Lena Taylor on board the leadership team of the Democratic Party,” Wineke said. “Lena has been a passionate voice for working... more...
Nov 11, 2005 3rd CD Dems: Republicans Need to Go Back to School on Student Aid Category: Education
This week, Third District Republicans took a shameful shot at Congressman Ron Kind to try to gain support for damaging reforms to the Higher Education Act. Under the guise of eliminating waste and inefficiency, Congressional Republicans tried to saddle low and middle-income students with more... more...
Nov 11, 2005 Sen. Kohl Campaign: Wisconsin’s Veterans Organize to Re-Elect Kohl to U.S. Senate Category: Veteran Affairs
As America celebrates Veterans Day today, the Herb Kohl for U.S. Senate campaign unveiled the Veterans for Kohl Steering Committee. Comprised of more than 100 brave Wisconsin veterans who have served in conflicts from World War II to Operation Iraqi Freedom, the committee offers high praise,... more...
Nov 11, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Introduction of Energy Efficiency Renewables Act Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle applauded the introduction of the Energy Efficiency and Renewables Act, released today by Senator Robert Cowles and Representative Phil Montgomery. The legislation is based on the recommendations of Governor Doyle's Task Force on Energy Efficiency and Renewables. Governor Doyle... more...
Nov 11, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces DOJ to Seek Continued Confinement of Taylor County Sex Offender Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a petition in Taylor County seeking to detain Justin M. Truckey, 18, currently confined at Lincoln Hills School in Lincoln County, on the grounds he is a “sexually violent person” as defined by... more...
Nov 11, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Honors Barry Alvarez Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle today honored Barry Alvarez, head coach of the University of Wisconsin-Madison football team for the past 16 years, by declaring Saturday, November 12, 2005 "Barry Alvarez Day" in the state of Wisconsin. Saturday marks Alvarez's last home football game as head coach of the... more...
Nov 11, 2005 Nancy Nusbaum: Statement on Veterans Day Category: Veteran Affairs
Nancy Nusbaum today attended a dedication ceremony in honor of Oneida Chief and Revolutionary War Veteran Captain James Powlis, and later released the following statement about Veterans Day: “Veterans Day is a day to honor and remember the courageous and faithful men and women who have served our... more...
Nov 10, 2005 State Chair Wineke Highlights of Taking Back the 8th CD Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today highlighted the importance of taking back the 8th Congressional District and sending a Democrat to Washington who will fight for the values of the people of Wisconsin instead of the special interests.
Joined at a news conference by the three... more...
Nov 10, 2005 Nusbaum Campaign: Calls for Rejecting Budget of Deficit Spending and Irresponsibile Cuts Category: Spending & Taxes
Today, Nancy Nusbaum urged Washington politicians to reject deficit spending and tax breaks for special interests. “Already, this administration has borrowed more money from foreign governments and banks than the previous 42 presidents combined. This is another typical Washington solution – go... more...
Nov 10, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Bill Helps VA Nurses Category: Veteran Affairs
Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin today introduced legislation that would provide full pension benefits for Veterans Affairs Department (VA) healthcare workers. Presently, many retired VA nurses are denied full pension benefits. “Through a major oversight in the law, many retired VA nurses are... more...
Nov 10, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Veterans History Project Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary Category: Veteran Affairs
Marking the five-year anniversary of the Veterans History Project (VHP), U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI), the project's "founding father," recognized the tens of thousands of veterans and volunteers who have contributed to build what is nation's largest collection of oral histories. The Veterans... more...
Nov 10, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Makes Feingold Family Travel Provision Permanent Category: Veteran Affairs
The U.S. Senate has unanimously accepted a provision authored by U.S. Senator Russ Feingold to make permanent a benefit to help families of injured servicemembers travel to the bedside of their injured loved ones. Feingold’s provision, based on his Injured Servicemembers Family Travel Act, was... more...
Nov 10, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Offers Amendment to De-Privatize TANF Services Category: Working Families
Last night Congresswoman Gwen Moore offered an amendment in front of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Rules which would ensure that fundamental Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) services are performed by public employees rather than profit-seeking private contractors.... more...
Nov 10, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Announces $495,591 in Department of Transportation Funds for Milwaukee's Ways to Work Loan Program Category: Working Families
Congresswoman Gwen Moore today announced that the Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration will provide $495,591 in Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) Program Allocation funds for the expansion of Milwaukee's Ways to Work (WTW) loan program. Since 1984, WTW has been... more...
Nov 10, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement on Federal Failure to Fund Asian Carp Barrier Category: Environment
A conference committee of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House yesterday failed to provide the $250,000 needed to operate a critical Asian Carp barrier that has been strongly backed by Governor Doyle as co-chair of the Council of Great Lakes Governors. Governor Doyle made the following statement:... more...
Nov 10, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Menard, Inc. to Build New Corporate Headquarters in Eau Claire Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that Menard, Inc. will construct a new corporate headquarters for its Midwest Manufacturing Division and develop a new data center in Eau Claire. The project is expected to create up to 200 positions. "We're working hard through Grow Wisconsin not only to not... more...
Nov 10, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Settlement of Columbia County Hazardous Spill Case Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office has settled an environmental lawsuit in Columbia County Circuit Court. The lawsuit was brought by the State of Wisconsin against Portage Airport Property, LLC, and its principal Gerald E. Mael, for soil and groundwater... more...
Nov 10, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Capitol One Bank Settlement Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that Capital One Bank has agreed to pay the state $80,032 to settle a lawsuit her office brought in Dane County against the bank for failing to register with the Department of Financial Institutions and pay fees as required by Wisconsin law.... more...
Nov 9, 2005 Chair Invites Bush to Campaign in Wisconsin Next November Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today sent a letter to President George W. Bush inviting him to campaign in Wisconsin next November. Wineke extended the invitation in light of Republican losses around the country due to the plummeting support of the Bush Administration.
“I... more...
Nov 9, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Measure will Help Troops Transition Back to Civilian Life Category: Veteran Affairs
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold has successfully offered an amendment to the Department of Defense spending bill to enhance and strengthen transition services for troops returning to civilian life. The amendment, a modified version of Feingold’s Veterans Enhanced Transition Services Act (VETS Act),... more...
Nov 9, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Visits Wisconsin Troops in Germany Category: Veteran Affairs
Governor Jim Doyle today met and had breakfast with Wisconsin members of the 123rd Main Support Battalion stationed at Anderson Barracks in Dexheim, Germany. Governor Doyle was joined by Commerce Secretary Mary Burke, Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Rod Nilsestuen, and... more...
Nov 9, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl, U.S. Rep. Moore: Announce $400,000 in Federal Funding for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Category: Education
Today Senator Herb Kohl and Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced that they have secured $400,000 in federal funding in the Science-State-Justice-Commerce Appropriations bill (H.R. 2862) for Wisconsin's Fourth Congressional District. The funds will enable the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's... more...
Nov 9, 2005 Gov. Doyle to Hold Conference Call During Eastern European Trade Mission Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle will hold a conference call with reporters to discuss the progress of the Eastern European Trade Mission at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow, Thursday, November 10, 2005. Governor Doyle is leading a delegation of Wisconsin business and government leaders to Eastern Europe from November 8-16,... more...
Nov 9, 2005 Rep. Sherman: Time to Redesign the 2/13 T Intersection Category: Strong Communities
Rep. Gary Sherman (D - Port Wing) today called upon the Department of Transportation to give high priority to the redesign of the T intersection at the junction of STH 13 and US 2, west of Ashland. The recent fatal accident at the intersection is the fourth in ten years and the second in just a... more...
Nov 8, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Honoring Wisconsin's Veterans Category: Veteran Affairs
More than 48 million Americans have served in our armed forces over the course of 230 years, from Lexington and Concord to Normandy Beach to the caves of Tora Bora and the streets of Fallujah. This Veterans Day, we honor America's veterans, who have served with duty, loyalty, and selfless courage... more...
Nov 8, 2005 Green Calls for Harsher Budget Cuts for Hardworking Wisconsin Families Category: Working Families
While House Republican leaders are struggling to garner enough support for a dangerous GOP budget that slashes programs vital to hardworking Wisconsin families, Congressman Mark Green not only says he plans to vote for these cuts, he also wants to make sure the cuts “go far enough.”
Green told... more...
Nov 8, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Signs Sister Agreement with Research Park in Germany Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today signed a Sister-Park Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University Research Park in Madison and the Frankfurter Innovationszentrum Biotechnologie GmbH (FIZ) of Hessen, Germany. Hessen is Wisconsin's sister-state. "This agreement will help further the... more...
Nov 8, 2005 Sen. Robson: Senate Bill 402 Puts Profits Before Public Health Category: Health Care
The State Senate passed a bill today that once again puts profits ahead of the health and safety of Wisconsinites, Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson said. “There is a disturbing trend in the state Legislature of rolling back consumer protections,” Robson said. “Our protections from dangerous... more...
Nov 7, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Actions Against Hospitals for Overcharging the Uninsured Category: Health Care
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office will take action against two Milwaukee-area hospitals for engaging in unfair trade practices by overcharging uninsured patients. According to the complaints to be filed with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer... more...
Nov 7, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: To Hold News Conference on Legal Actions to Protect Uninsured Wisconsin Citizens From Unfair Health Care Charges Category: Health Care
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager will hold a news conference to announce legal actions to protect uninsured Wisconsin citizens from unfair health care charges: 1:30 p.m. Monday November 7, 2005 Italian Community Center, Conference Room 3, 631 E. Chicago Street, Milwaukee. Discounts are... more...
Nov 7, 2005 Sen. Robson: Poll Shows Need for Legislative Action to Make Health Care Affordable Category: Health Care
Yet another survey shows that Wisconsinites are worried about the cost of going to the doctor, said Senate Democratic Leader Judy Robson. “A poll released last week by the Wisconsin Homeowners’ Alliance, an arm of the Wisconsin Realtors Association, confirms what Democrats have been talking about... more...
Nov 7, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Calls on the Government to Create a "Strategic Refinery Reserve" Category: Working Families
In response to rising energy prices, U.S. Senator Herb Kohl today called on the federal government to build an oil refinery to produce petroleum products for the government’s use and for the private market in times of tight supply and high prices. Kohl’s proposal would authorize the Department of... more...
Nov 7, 2005 Lieutenant Governor Lawton Affirms Support for Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager Category: Politics
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today released the following statement on her continued support for Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager: “Wisconsin needs an attorney general who is wise, tenacious, independent and committed to transparency. Peg Lautenschlager is that attorney general, and I... more...
Nov 4, 2005 AG Luatenschlager: Testimony on Concealed Weapons Legislation Category: Strong Communities
On Wednesday, November 2, 2005, the testimony of Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager regarding legislation to allow the carrying of concealed weapons was submitted to a joint hearing of the Senate Judiciary, Corrections and Privacy Committee and the Assembly Criminal Justice and Homeland Security... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $5 Million for Central Wisconsin Housing Projects Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that 16 Wisconsin local governments and housing-related agencies in Central Wisconsin will share more than $5.0 million in awards from the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Small Cities program and the HOME Single-Family (HSF) program. Both... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Milwaukee Education Pacakge Category: Education
Governor Jim Doyle today announced a comprehensive, three-pronged Milwaukee Education Package aimed at reforming the school choice program in Milwaukee and investing in smaller class sizes for public school students across the state. "Today, I'm proposing a package of education reforms that lifts... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces More Than $3 Million for Eastern Wisconsin Housing Projects Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that 13 Wisconsin local governments and housing-related agencies in Eastern Wisconsin will share more than $3.8 in awards from the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Small Cities program and the HOME Single-Family (HSF) program. Both programs are... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces More Than $5 Million for Northern Wisconsin Housing Projects Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that 16 Wisconsin local governments and housing-related agencies in Northern Wisconsin will share more than $5.1 million in awards from the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Small Cities program and the HOME Single-Family (HSF) program. Both... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Prominent Madison Latinos Come Together for AG Lautenschlager Category: Politics
A variety of prominent Madison Latino leaders have come together to support Wisconsin Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager in her bid for reelection in 2006. Attorney Victor Arellano, of the Madison-based law firm Lawton & Cates, will be hosting a Latino-Latina fundraiser on November 17, 2005 in... more...
Nov 4, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Votes to Protect Private Property Rights Category: Civil Rights
U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) voted today to protect the rights of Wisconsin property owners by discouraging municipalities and local governments from abusing their eminent domain power in the name of economic development. The Eminent Domain Property Act of 2005 (HR 4128), which passed the House with... more...
Nov 4, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Receives "Stateswoman of the Year" Award Category: Politics
At an annual event this Sunday recognizing those who highlight the needs and advance the interests of women, Congresswoman Gwen Moore will receive the "Stateswoman of the Year" award for her years in public office as a champion of progressive and social issues that affect women. The award is... more...
Nov 4, 2005 Kohl Extends MILC Program in Senate; Will Green Get the Job Done in the House? Category: Agriculture
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke today applauded U.S. Senator Herb Kohl for his leadership in securing an extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program in the U.S. Senate’s year-end budget bill. MILC, which expired at the end of September despite a promise by President... more...
Nov 3, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Nearly $1 Million for Brownfields Projects in Milwaukee Co. Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today announced nearly $1 million in brownfields grants from the Department of Commerce to assist two redevelopment efforts in Milwaukee County. "My Grow Wisconsin Agenda for 2005 calls for new investments in infrastructure so our communities can expand and create jobs,"... more...
Nov 3, 2005 Rep. Lehman: Calls for Audit of Department of Revenue Category: Spending & Taxes
State Representative John Lehman (D-Racine) today called for an audit of the Department of Revenue’s distribution of county sales tax collections. “Several counties have complained that their revenues are significantly lower than projected. I am particularly concerned about the effect this could... more...
Nov 3, 2005 Rep. Parisi: Calls for Election Reform Category: Politics
In an effort to save state tax-dollars, streamline the election process, and institute productive criminal justice reform, State Representative Joe Parisi (D-Madison) is introducing legislation that would maintain the prohibition against incarcerated felons voting, and restore their right to vote... more...
Nov 3, 2005 Reps. Richards, Kreuser: Statement on Colorado TABOR Rejection Category: Spending & Taxes
“This week, Colorado voters approved a five year suspension of TABOR, the so-called Taxpayers Bill of Rights that has hamstringed state and local government for 13 years. Not only did voters set TABOR aside, they voted to give up $3 billion in tax refunds so that schools and public services like... more...
Nov 3, 2005 Green Tries to Hide from Washington Record of Voting to Restrict Stem Cell Research Category: Health Care
Congressman Mark Green is trying yet again to hide from his Washington record of consistently voting to restrict groundbreaking stem cell research pioneered right here in Wisconsin.
Contrary to his claim this week that he has “always put medical research dollars near the top of my priority... more...
Nov 2, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Creates eHealth Care Quality and Patient Safety Board Category: Health Care
Governor Doyle today signed Executive Order 129, creating an eHealth Care Quality and Patient Safety Board, which will be charged with developing a plan to automate all health care information systems in Wisconsin. "This is a win-win situation for Wisconsin patients and doctors alike," Governor... more...
Nov 2, 2005 Senate Dems: Offer Relief for High Home Heating Costs Category: Working Families
Democrats in the State Senate demanded today the legislature take a break from debating bills that appeal to the few and consider solutions for the many Wisconsin families who are worried about the high cost of heating their homes this winter. “The calendar reads November. The days are shorter.... more...
Nov 2, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Joins 46 Attorneys General Calling for Congressional Action on Electronic Data Security Breaches Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced that forty-seven Attorneys General and the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection have signed and submitted a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to adopt strong security breach notification and security freeze legislation. The letter urges... more...
Nov 2, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Cuts Ribbon on West Grand Avenue Project in Wisconsin Rapids Category: Economy
As part of his Capital for the Day tour, Governor Jim Doyle today celebrated the soon-to-be completed reconstruction of West Grand Avenue at a ribbon cutting ceremony in Wisconsin Rapids. "We're nearing completion of a project that will greatly enhance the western approach to Wisconsin Rapids and... more...
Nov 2, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Praises Senate for Approving Key Election Reform Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle released the following statement today after the State Senate approved Senate Bill 1, which consolidates the Elections Board and the Ethics Board into a new Government Accountability Board with expanded responsibilities. The Governor called for this merger in the Election... more...
Nov 2, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement On Abusing the Budget Process to Allow Drilling in the Arctic Refuge Category: Environment
Mr. President, I rise today in strong support of Senator Cantwell’s amendment to strike section 401 from the budget reconciliation bill. I thank her for her dedication to protecting the Arctic Refuge, for her great deal of work over the years on this very important issue, and especially for her... more...
Nov 2, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: The White House Needs to Get Budget Priorities Straight Category: Spending & Taxes
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today released the following statement after the administration threatened to veto any budget bill that cuts $5.4 billion hand out for HMOs: “The statement released by the White House yesterday, vowing to veto any bill that eliminates a multi-billion slush fund for... more...
Nov 2, 2005 New Revelations from Wisconsin Democracy Campaign on Green’s Questionable $1.3 Million Category: Politics
A study by the non-partisan Wisconsin Democracy Campaign shows that Congressman Mark Green has failed to disclose the source of more than $387,000 in large special interest contributions that he laundered into Wisconsin earlier this year to use in his bid for Governor.
A review by the WDC... more...
Nov 1, 2005
Gov. Doyle: To Call Oil Company Executives to Wisconsin for Public Hearing
Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today announced he will use his authority under Wisconsin's trade and consumer protection law to issue subpoenas to oil company executives to appear in Wisconsin for a public hearing on the record profits earned in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. "We will issue...
Nov 1, 2005
Kohl Campaign: Unveils 2006 Campaign Team
Category: Politics
Herb Kohl announced today key members of his campaign team as he seeks re-election to the U.S. Senate in 2006. In addition to new Campaign Director Phillip Walzak, announced last week, Sen. Kohl introduced Paul Maslin of Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin and Associates as his pollster and David Axelrod...
Nov 1, 2005
U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement On Reinstating the PAYGO Rule to the Budget Process
Category: Spending & Taxes
Mr. President, I am pleased to cosponsor the amendment offered by my good friend the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Conrad). There is no Senator more dedicated to a fiscally responsible federal budget and to restoring sound budget rules than Senator Conrad. He is an acknowledged expert on the...
Nov 1, 2005
A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Pest Control Firm Ordered to Pay for Illegal Spraying
Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that Richard Alexander, doing business as Rick's Mosquito Control Service, has been ordered by Walworth County Judge James Carlson to pay a total of $11,143 in forfeitures and surcharges for violations of Wisconsin's laws that regulate the use...
Nov 1, 2005
Gov. Doyle: Vetoes Senate Bill 390
Category: Spending & Taxes
Governor Jim Doyle today vetoed Senate Bill 390, directing the Department of Transportation to provide $1.6 million from the Harbor Assistance Program to the city of Marinette for the construction of a dockwall at the Waupaca Foundry. "This bill is redundant and unnecessary because my...
Nov 1, 2005 Wineke Applauds Governor Doyle's Leadership on Addressing Rising Gas Prices Category: Working Families
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today praising Governor Doyle’s announcement that he will issue subpoenas to the major oil company executives to appear at a hearing in Wisconsin on the record profits they have reaped in the aftermath of recent... more...
Oct 31, 2005
Fourth Republican Gets Rid of DeLay Money; When Will Green, Ryan Do the Same?
Category: Politics
With the news that a fourth Republican member of Congress has returned campaign funds from the indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin is once again calling on Congressmen Mark Green and Paul Ryan to clean their campaigns of the more than $55,000 they’ve...
Oct 31, 2005
Lt. Gov. Lawton: Encourages Wisconsin Families to Get a Home Energy Audit
Category: Working Families
Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton today participated in a home energy audit in Eau Claire, encouraging families to take this important step that can help homeowners learn about how to lower their utility bills this winter. "With runaway increases in home heating costs this winter, an energy audit is...
Oct 31, 2005
Rep. Black: 90% Support Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Category: Health Care
The University of Wisconsin should continue embryonic stem cell research, according to the overwhelming majority of constituents responding to Representative Spencer Black’s annual legislative survey. Black released the results of his annual legislative survey of the 77th Assembly District....
Oct 31, 2005
U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on President Bush's Nomination of Judge Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court
Category: Crime and Justice
The nomination of Judge Alito to replace Justice O'Connor will be crucial to determining the balance of the Supreme Court for decades to come. This balance currently keeps the Court in the mainstream of American thought and is what upholds many rights that Americans take for granted. Accordingly,...
Oct 31, 2005
U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement On the Nomination of Judge Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court of the United States
Category: Crime and Justice
“Evaluating a nominee to the United States Supreme Court is a responsibility I take extremely seriously. The country deserves a thorough examination of Judge Alito's record and views, and I look forward to participating in that process. Because Supreme Court justices can have a uniquely...
Oct 28, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Seconds Doyle's Call for Legislative Action on Record Oil Profits Category: Working Families
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today applauded Governor Jim Doyle’s call for Congressional action to return outrageous oil profits to Wisconsin consumers, who are paying record high prices at the pumps. “I second the Governor’s efforts on behalf of Wisconsin consumers,” Lautenschlager said... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Rep. Sherman: Applauds, Concurs in Breske Appeal on School Funding Category: Education
74th Assembly District Representative Gary Sherman (D – Port Wing) today praised a letter distributed by Senator Roger Breske on the need to completely revamp the school funding formula. Calling it “the clearest description of the crisis that I have seen,” Sherman called upon his legislative... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Sen. Hansen: Record Profits Prove Need for Thorough Investigation into Big Oil Category: Working Families
Recent quarterly reports showing Big Oil reaping record profits in the third quarter support the need for through and independent investigations into the major oil companies by state Attorneys General and the Federal Trade Commission according to State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay). “The... more...
Oct 28, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Indictment of a Top Administration Official Category: Crime and Justice
“As President Bush has said, this is a serious investigation and Patrick Fitzgerald has conducted this investigation in a dignified manner. In the wake of these charges, and the ongoing investigation, the President should remember the pledge he made to the American people that he would bring... more...
Oct 28, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on the Indictment of I. Lewis Libby by U.S. Attorney Fitzgerald Category: Crime and Justice
These indictments of perjury, making false statements and obstruction of justice at the highest level of government are very serious. The American people have a right to expect their top officials to adhere to strict ethical and legal standards. If a court finds in this case they have not, there... more...
Oct 28, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Statement on Indictment of Lewis Libby Category: Crime and Justice
“Honesty and integrity are essential leadership qualities and are central in a true democracy. Today’s indictments of Vice President Cheney''''s Chief of Staff, on the heels of recent indictments of House Republican Leader Tom DeLay, are devastating to all of us who cherish our democratic form of... more...
Oct 28, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Decries Civic Gag Rule Attached to H.R. 1461 Category: Working Families
A provision with the intent of disenfranchising low-income, minority, and elderly voters was attached to the GSE Federal Housing Finance Reform Act of 2005 (H.R. 1461), passed by the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this week. H.R. 1461 established a new regulator for Government Sponsored... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Nearly $2 Million for Waupaca Foundry Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the state will provide nearly $2 million from the Department of Commerce for Waupaca Foundry to upgrade its facilities in Marinette and Waupaca. "I recognize that every day American foundries are expected to compete more and more with foreign manufacturers,... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Encourages Parents to Use "SAFE Tip" Hotline, Sex Offender Registry to Keep Kids Safe this Halloween Season Category: Crime and Justice
With this year's Halloween season approaching, Governor Doyle today encouraged parents to make use of resources available, including the sex offender registry and the "SAFE Tip" hotline, to help protect kids and communities from sex offenders. "On Halloween and every day, it is important that we... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Presents $1.1 Million Harbor Assistance Grant to City of Oconto to Improve Waterway Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today presented city of Oconto officials a $1.1 million Harbor Assistance (HAP) grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to help complete a dredging project along the Oconto River. The project will promote the efficient movement of commerce and support... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Kohl Campaign: Announces New Director Category: Politics
Kohl for Senate announced today that Michael Teter will be leaving the campaign effective October 31. Michael’s wife recently gave birth to their first child and they have decided to move to Washington State to be closer to family. Teter will be replaced by Phil Walzak. “It is with great... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Lt. Gov. Lawton: Addresses Send-Off of 570 Wisconsin National Guard Troops at Camp Shelby Category: Veteran Affairs
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today addressed 570 members of the Wisconsin National Guard in a send-off ceremony at Camp Shelby, Miss. This is Lt. Governor Lawton's second send-off at Camp Shelby in eight days. Traveling with the Lt. Governor were Major General Al Wilkening, Wisconsin... more...
Oct 28, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Secures Over $500,000 for the UW-Milwaukee's Great Lakes Aquaculture Center Category: Environment
Today Congresswoman Gwen Moore announced that she has secured $562,519 in federal funding in the Agriculture Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006 Conference Report (H.R. 2744) for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Great Lakes Aquaculture Center. The funds will be used for the expansion... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Sen. Hansen: Works with Governor Doyle to Secure $1.1 Million for Oconto River Dredging Project Category: Economy
State Senator Dave Hansen announced (D-Green Bay) today that the City of Oconto will receive over $1 million in state funding to help with the cost of dredging the Oconto River. “The dredging of the Oconto River is key to the success of Oconto industries like Cruisers Yachts and the jobs they... more...
Oct 28, 2005 Sen. Hansen: Statement Regarding Funding for Waupaca Foundry Dock Wall Category: Economy
At the conclusion of the budget I contacted Governor Doyle and urged him to find funding for this important project in a way that would address his concerns with the original language in the budget bill. Since that time I am pleased that with the help of Mayor Oitzinger we were able to work out a... more...
Oct 27, 2005 While Big Oil Companies Enjoy Record Profits, Wisconsin Citizens Pay the Price at the Pump Category: Working Families
As the world’s largest oil companies post record profits this week, President Bush, Congressman Mark Green, and Republicans in Washington continue to turn their backs on Wisconsin families being gouged at the pump and side with the big oil companies that profited following one of the nation’s... more...
Oct 27, 2005 Announces Award Winners for Eleanor Roosevelt Tribute Category: Women's Leadership Network
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin announced today that it will honor grassroots activist Kathleen Vinehout, former State Rep. Becky Young, past DPW Chair Linda Honold, and activist Bonnie Joseph at Saturday’s annual Eleanor Roosevelt Tribute at the Madison Marriott West in Middleton. Held every... more...
Oct 27, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Encourages Wisconsin Families to Get a Home Energy Audit Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today participated in a home energy audit at the home of Jim Auler and Paula Murphy to encourage families to have an energy audit to lower their utility bills this winter. As part of his Energy Help Initiative, Governor Doyle has increased the rebate to help homeowners get an... more...
Oct 27, 2005 U.S. Rep. Kind: Under Pressure, President Bush Retreats from Gulf Wage-Cut Category: Strong Communities
Succumbing to pressure from a united Democratic front, a small group of members of his own party, religious groups, and the labor community, President Bush announced yesterday he would reverse the decision he made in September to remove wage protections for construction workers in the areas... more...
Oct 27, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Renews Call for Oil Companies to Refund Record Profits Category: Working Families
With ExxonMobil, British Petroleum, and ConocoPhillips reporting record profits, Governor Jim Doyle today renewed his call for Congressional action to issue American consumers a refund for gas price gouging. "In the past few days we have learned that our suspicions were right," Governor Doyle... more...
Oct 27, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on Harriet Miers Category: Crime and Justice
“This must have been a very difficult decision for Ms. Miers. I wish her well in her continued service to the Administration and to the country. It is now more important than ever that the President select a nominee for the Supreme Court who will bring our country together. I urge him to choose a... more...
Oct 27, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Statement on the Withdrawal of Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court Category: Crime and Justice
Given all the questions surrounding her nomination, Harriet Miers withdrawal is not surprising. I am hopeful that the President will nominate a distinguished jurist who can unite the country and be quickly confirmed on a bipartisan basis. more...
Oct 27, 2005 U.S. Sens. Feingold, Collins: Secure Funding to Improve Access to Defibrillators Category: Health Care
U.S. Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have successfully added an amendment to the Labor-Health appropriations bill to fund the Automated Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory (ADAM) Act, a program that would set up a national clearing house to help schools set up public access... more...
Oct 26, 2005 Memo Re: Analysis of Latest Poll Numbers on Bush/Green Agenda Category: Politics
The latest CNN/USA Today/Gallup Poll paints even more grim news for Congressman Mark Green as he tried to convince Wisconsin voters that his failed Washington agenda is the right direction for Wisconsin. Only 4 in 10 Americans support members of Congress who support Bush. “At the moment, Bush is... more...
Oct 26, 2005 Gov. Doyle: PSA Encourages Wisconsin Families to Get a Home Energy Audit Category: Working Families
To encourage Wisconsin families to get an energy audit on their homes this winter and save money on their utility bills, Governor Jim Doyle has recorded 60- and 30-second Public Service Announcements. Energy audits are home inspections that look at the building shell, heating and cooling... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Statement on Passing of Rosa Parks Category: Civil Rights
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today regarding the passing of civil rights legend Rosa Parks, who died late Monday in Michigan at the age of 92:
“Yesterday, our nation lost a true icon – a courageous woman whose simple act of defiance helped... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement Regarding Rosa Parks Category: Civil Rights
Governor Jim Doyle made the following statement today regarding the passing of Rosa Parks: "Rosa Parks proved to the world, and generations of Americans, that a single, determined person can indeed make a difference. "Long after she is gone, history will remember the seamstress from Alabama whose... more...
Oct 25, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Lawsuit Against MMSD Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office will file a civil environmental lawsuit in Milwaukee County Circuit Court against the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) for the more than two billion gallons of sewage overflows which occurred during a period of wet... more...
Oct 25, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: "A Timeframe to Finish the Military Mission in Iraq Makes America Safer" Category: Foreign Policy
U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today, in the fourth in a series of speeches he has given on our nation’s national security and the Administration’s flawed policy in Iraq, spoke from the Senate floor on the need to develop a flexible timetable and strategy to finish the military mission in Iraq. In... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Democrats to Present Sympathy Card to Bush Chief of Staff in Milwaukee Tuesday Category: Politics
As a new poll shows President Bush’s approval ratings in Wisconsin have dropped once again to a new low, Democrats will present a sympathy card to Bush Chief of Staff Andrew Card during his visit to Milwaukee tomorrow, Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. at the University Club. Only 33 percent... more...
Oct 25, 2005 U.S. Rep. Moore: Statement Regarding the Life of Rosa Parks Category: Civil Rights
"Today we honor the life of a woman whose brave and simple act on a Montgomery, Alabama bus sparked a boycott, fueled a movement, and signaled the beginning of the end of the shameful practice of segregation. Rosa Parks' role in the civil rights movement serves as a fundamental inspiration for... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Sen. Brown, Rep. Gronemus: Area Representatives Fight for Trempealeau County Category: Environment
Bipartisan legislation requiring the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to work with local citizens to change access to Trempealeau County’s Perrot State Park passed the state Senate today. The bill, AB 684, directs the DNR to seek approval from the Trempealeau Town Board before altering... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Rep. Sherman: Efficiency - The Key to a Secure Future Category: Economy
In my last article, I alluded to improving the efficiency of our use of natural resources and energy as providing the kind of goal that could both unite us as a nation and secure our future leadership in the world. Nowhere in the article did I use the word conservation. That was entirely a... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Lt. Gov Lawton: To Address Door County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner Category: Politics
Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton will address the Door County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner tomorrow, Wednesday, October 26 at 7:00 p.m. at the Leatham Smith Lodge in Sturgeon Bay. Shortly after taking office in 2003, Governor Doyle named Lt. Governor Lawton chair of the Wisconsin Arts Board. Lt.... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Business Project in Baraboo Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the City of Baraboo will receive a $386,000 Community Development Block Grant - Public Facilities for Economic Development (CDBG-PFED) grant from the Department of Commerce to support the construction of a new facility by Teel Plastics, Inc. The project... more...
Oct 25, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Awards Gang Prevention Grants to Racine Category: Crime and Justice
Governor Jim Doyle today announced $100,000 in federal Justice System grants for the City of Racine Gang Program, which works to curb gang activity by ethnic and age groups. "Racine is a great place to live, and I want the residents of Racine to have the city they deserve - one that's free from... more...
Oct 25, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Shore Land Development Violations Settlement Category: Environment
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today announced that the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed and settled a lawsuit in Rusk County against two Rusk County realtors for environmental violations associated with a planned residential development on the Chippewa River. more...
Oct 25, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Announces Settlement of Lawsuit Against Delaware Internet Service Provider Category: Working Families
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that her office has settled a lawsuit in Dane County against CoreComm Voyager, Inc., for violating Wisconsin's telecommunications laws. CoreComm, a Delaware corporation, provides dial-up internet access and related services to Wisconsin... more...
Oct 24, 2005 Statement from Chair Joe Wineke on Resignation of First Vice Chair Linda Honold Category: Politics
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke released the following statement today regarding the resignation of 1st Vice Chair Linda Honold. Honold has resigned her leadership post with the Democratic Party effective Friday, October 21, 2005 to take a consulting opportunity. “I want to thank... more...
Oct 24, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $22 Million in New Markets Tax Credits for Palermo Villa Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that Palermo Properties, LLC will receive $22 million in New Markets Tax Credits, and a $750,000 loan from the Department of Commerce to secure construction of a major food plant in Milwaukee's Menomonee River Valley. Governor Doyle made the announcement at a... more...
Oct 24, 2005 U.S. Sens. Feingold, Sununu: Hold Press Conference on PATRIOT Act Reauthorization Category: Homeland Defense
In the coming days, Senate and House conferees will meet to reconcile the different versions of the PATRIOT Act reauthorization bills that the two houses of Congress passed earlier this year. U.S. Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI) and John Sununu (R-NH) will hold a press conference tomorrow, Tuesday,... more...
Oct 24, 2005 UW-Madison College Dems: Senator John Edwards to Visit UW-Madison Campus October 26th Category: Politics
In association with College Democrats of Madison, former Democratic Vice Presidential candidate and Senator John Edwards will visit the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus in association with Opportunity Rocks on Wednesday, October 26, 2005. The goal of Opportunity Rocks is twofold: to get... more...
Oct 24, 2005 Rep. Black: Special Interest Lobbying Would be Disclosed Under Proposed Legislation Category: Politics
Legislation that will require lobbyists to report all attempts to influence state agency decisions was introduced today by Representative Spencer Black. Currently, special interests do not have to report how much they spend on efforts to influence many of the most important state agency decisions... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Green's Hypocrisy on Donations: 'Do as I Say, Not as I Do' Category: Politics
After casting the deciding vote in 2003 to approve the federal Medicare Prescription Drug Plan that gave away billions to the big drug and insurance industries, Congressman Mark Green took almost $54,000 in contributions from pharmaceutical and insurance companies.
Passed in the House of... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Green's Washington Values: It's Okay to Take Freebies from Indicted D.C. Lobbyist Category: Politics
After trying to cover up the fact that he took ticket freebies from indicted Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack Abramoff’s firm, Mark Green’s campaign manager Mark Graul is now excusing the behavior by saying that’s just the way business is done in Washington. Records show that Graul, as Green’s... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Three Questions Mark Green Won't Answer Category: Politics
As quarterback of the Green Team, Congressman Mark Green talks a lot about Wisconsin values. Yet as the people of Wisconsin learn more about who’s on the Green team, it has become even more apparent that Mark Green doesn’t represent Wisconsin. Instead, Green is a Washington politician caught up... more...
Oct 21, 2005 U.S. Sen. Kohl: Vows to Continue the Fight for Wisconsin Families Facing High Heating Bills Category: Working Families
“We are staring at an approaching disaster, a disaster that will affect millions across the nation and hit hardest on those who can afford it least ,” said Senator Kohl said today in response to the Senate's rejection of an amendment to provide emergency money to the Low Income Housing and Energy... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Rep. Travis: Highlights Gov. Doyle's Energy Help Initiative Category: Working Families
To help Wisconsin businesses and residents cope with rising energy costs, State Rep. Dave Travis (D-Waunakee) highlighted today the Energy Help Initiative begun by Governor Doyle on September 29. The initiative provides for low-income bill payment assistance, a central source for information on... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Releases New Poll Results on Attorney General Race Category: Politics
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager’s campaign released the results of a poll of 504 likely Wisconsin voters that showed the AG is viewed favorably by a plurality of voters, and that she enjoys a stronger lead over the two likely Republican candidates than does Dane County Executive Kathleen... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Lt. Gov. Lawton: Attends National Guard Troop Send-Off at Camp Shelby Category: Homeland Defense
Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today addressed 448 members of the Wisconsin National Guard in a send-off ceremony at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. Traveling to Camp Shelby with the Lt. Governor were Wisconsin's Adjutant Gen. Al Wilkening, Brig. Gen. Kerry Denson, as well as nine state... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Memo to Supporters from Polling Group Category: Politics
The results of our recent statewide survey among 504 likely voters show that Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager is viewed favorably by a plurality of voters and that she enjoys a stronger lead over the two likely Republican candidates than does Kathleen Falk. rney General Lautenschlager has a... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $900,000 in Forest Fire Protection Preparedness Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that 305 Wisconsin fire departments and other fire suppression organizations have been awarded a total of $900,223 in forest fire protection preparedness grants. Forest Fire Protection (FFP) grants Volunteer Fire Assistance grants (VFA) aid in purchasing items... more...
Oct 21, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $532,000 for Baraboo to Support Economic Development Project Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the City of Baraboo will receive a $532,000 Community Development Block Grant - Public Facilities for Economic Development (CDBG-PFED) grant from the Department of Commerce to support the construction of a new facility by Teel Plastics, Inc. The project... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Warrant Issued for Tom DeLay's Arrest Category: Politics
Now that a Texas court has issued a warrant for former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay’s arrest, will Congressmen Mark Green and Paul Ryan finally come clean and get rid of the tainted campaign cash they’ve taken from the indicted Texas politician?
A Texas court issued the warrant yesterday,... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Statement Regarding Today's Announcement by U.S. Attorney Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle today made the following statement: "Although I was not personally involved in the decision, I feel confident that the review will find that nothing inappropriate was done. The contract was awarded to the lowest bidder, saving taxpayers $30,000. The normal process was followed.... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Lautenschlager Campaign: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Visits Madison in Support of Attorney General Category: Politics
Robert Kennedy, Jr. will be the special guest at a fundraiser for Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager, according to Lautenschlager campaign spokesperson Kate LaRocque. The lunchtime event is scheduled for Wednesday, November 2, at the Concourse Hotel in Madison. “Both the Attorney General and... more...
Oct 20, 2005 A.G. Lautenschlager: Zien/Suder Bill Deprives Citizens of "litigation fairness" Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager today strongly criticized new draft legislation aimed at gutting the rights of the citizens of Wisconsin by stripping away some of the most basic traditional protections the Attorney General is empowered to defend. Lautenschlager called the bill, sponsored by... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Sen. Miller & Rep. Benedict: The Wisconsin Health Security Act Introduction (PDF) Category: Health Care
Sen. Mark Miller (D-Monona) and Rep. Chuck Benedict (D-Beloit) held a press conference today to describe the Wisconsin Health Security Act. The Wisconsin Health Security Act is legislation that would create a comprehensive healt care system for Wisconsin and enure that all residents have access... more
Oct 20, 2005 Sen. Robson: Rallies Broad Support for Fire-Safe Cigarettes Category: Politics
State Senator Judy Robson (D-Beloit) today announced that a bipartisan group of legislators and community leaders has joined her in introducing legislation to require that all cigarettes sold in Wisconsin must meet fire-safety standards. “I’m gratified at the level of support and interest in this... more...
Oct 20, 2005 U.S. Rep. Baldwin: Delegation Supports Request for Federal Aid Category: Strong Communities
The Wisconsin Congressional delegation today sent a letter to President Bush supporting Governor Jim Doyle’s appeal of the Administration’s denial of a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Wisconsin. The letter, authored by Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and signed by Senators Kohl and... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Rep. Parisi: Proposal to Reduce Non-Violent Prisoner Population Will Save Tax-dollars and Create Safer Communities Category: Crime and Justice
State Representative Joe Parisi (D-Madison) is introducing legislation that would allow the State Dept. of Corrections to expand its Earned Release Program (ERP) – a move that, according to Parisi, will save thousands of dollars and make communities safer by addressing the core alcohol and drug... more...
Oct 20, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces $900,000 Transportation Economic Assistance Grant to Madison Category: Working Families
Governor Jim Doyle today presented a $900,000 Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant to Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz to help support Covance Laboratories' efforts to expand and create new jobs in the community. "Investing in quality transportation is vital for businesses that are looking... more...
Oct 20, 2005 AG Lautenschlager: Announces Civil Commitment of Sexual Predator in Grant County Category: Crime and Justice
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager announced today that Carl Lippstock, 68, has been committed as a sexually violent person upon a jury’s verdict at the conclusion of a two-and-a-half day trial in Grant County. “Helping to keep Wisconsin citizens safe from violent sexual predators is a critical... more...
Oct 19, 2005 Scandal-Plagued Congressman to Hold Campaign Rally for Mark Green Monday Category: Politics
Republicans in Washington are planning to bring their culture of corruption to Wisconsin next week when the scandal-plagued Ohio Congressman Bob Ney holds a campaign rally in Milwaukee for Wisconsin Congressman Mark Green.
An article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel today reports that Green... more...
Oct 19, 2005 George Bush: How Low Can He Go? Category: Politics
On the heels of a poll last week showing the President’s approval ratings plummeting by 10 percentage points in Wisconsin, yet another national survey shows Bush’s approval ratings have sunk to a new low in Wisconsin. According to Survey USA, only 36 percent of Wisconsinites approve of the... more...
Oct 19, 2005 Sen. Carpenter: Potential $340 Million Windfall to Wisconsin Election Campaign Revealed Category: Politics
State Senator Tim Carpenter (D--Milwaukee) today revealed that he has donated to the Wisconsin Election Campaign Fund a lottery ticket for today’s PowerBall lottery drawing, which has an estimated $340 million jackpot. “While the odds of the ticket I donated being a winning ticket are reported to... more...
Oct 19, 2005 Sen. Miller, Rep. Benedict: The Wisconsin Health Security Act Introduction Category: Health Care
Sen. Mark Miller (D – Monona) and Rep. Chuck Benedict (D – Beloit) will be holding a press conference to introduce the Health Security Act. The bill would create a comprehensive health care system for Wisconsin and ensure all residents have access to affordable quality health care. This bill is... more...
Oct 19, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Jeffords, Feingold Introduce Military Family Support Act Category: Veteran Affairs
U.S. Sens. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., and Russ Feingold, D-Wis., introduced legislation today to support military families struggling with the long-term absence of a family member deployed overseas by providing them with increased flexibility in accessing leave time at work. The Military Family Support... more...
Oct 19, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Dedicates Purchase of 18,500 Acres in Langlade County Category: Environment
Governor Jim Doyle today dedicated a Forest Legacy easement purchase on more than 18,500 acres of forest in Langlade County. The purchase assures that land owned by Plum Creek Timberlands will forever remain a working, sustainably managed forest. "This purchase permanently protects thousands of... more...
Oct 19, 2005 U.S. Sen. Feingold: Statement on the Agriculture Reconciliation Pacakge Category: Agriculture
While I am pleased with the Senate Agriculture Committee’s decision to exclude Food Stamps from cuts and include an extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program through the end of the Farm Bill in their reconciliation package, I am troubled by the proposed reductions to some of the... more...
Oct 19, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Announces Portage & Wood Counties Are 'Capital for the Day' on November 2 Category: Politics
Governor Jim Doyle announced today that Portage and Wood Counties will be "Capital for the Day" on Wednesday, November 2, 2005. Governor Doyle will bring First Lady Jessica Doyle, Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton, and members of his Cabinet to Portage and Wood Counties to meet with local... more...
Oct 18, 2005 Mark Green Votes for Big Oil Interests, Against An Effort to Go After Price Gouging Category: Working Families
Despite telling the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that the Republican energy bill addresses price gouging, the bill Congressman Mark Green cast the deciding vote to pass fails to protect consumers from price gouging at the pump. The bill also does nothing to address rising gas prices, loosens... more...
Oct 18, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Appeals FEMA Decision for Tornado Disaster Aid Category: Strong Communities
Governor Jim Doyle today formally submitted an appeal to the Bush Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), requesting that they reverse their earlier decision to deny federal disaster aid to three Wisconsin counties impacted by the August 18, 2005 tornadoes. "This... more...
Oct 18, 2005 Gov. Doyle: Highlights Wisconsin's Improving Entrepreneurial Climate Category: Economy
Governor Jim Doyle today highlighted that Wisconsin achieved top-20 rankings in all size categories in a 2005 study by Entrepreneur of "Hot Cities for Entrepreneurs," showing improvement in Wisconsin's entrepreneurial climate. "Encouraging the development of new companies is the key to creating... more...
Oct 18, 2005 Sen. Carpenter: Calls for Special Session Next Week To Tackle Campaign Finance Reform Category: Politics
State Senator Tim Carpenter (D--Milwaukee) called today for the Governor and the Leadership of the Senate and the Assembly to call the Legislature into either Special or Extraordinary Session next week to address campaign finance reform. “A poll published this week by the Wisconsin Policy... more...
Oct 18, 2005