Standing by While the Democrats Make Their Bed

**Update 6/26 – Senate passes budget 51-46, next stop the governor's desk.

I'm more than a bit troubled by the behavior of the Wisconsin democrats as we sit patiently on the sidelines waiting for the 2010 budget. I do respect the electoral process and cannot say enough about our constitutional democracy. However, when a party takes it upon itself to completely shut out differing viewpoints, they are setting themselves up for disaster. In my brief 40 years, I can not remember a time when our elected officials have wrapped themselves up so tightly in the colors of their party that they forget who put them there in the first place.

While the 2008 presidential election brought approximately 70% of eligible voters to the polls, the spring 2009 elections saw a paltry 14% voter turnout. For purposes of this piece, I'll refer to the fall turnout numbers of 70%. While 30% have decided they want no part in how they are governed, the other 70% have demonstrated enough interest in government to show up and participate. Those individuals in the 70% are effectively represented by 99 Assembly representatives and 33 State Senators. The State Senate is controlled by 18 Democrats, with a minority of 15 Republicans. The Assembly is controlled by 52 Democrats, with 46 Republicans in the minority. By the numbers, Democrats hold a 55% majority in the State Senate, and a 53% majority in the Assembly. 55 and 53 percent are by no means overwhelming majorities, but they are majorities nonetheless. Democracy reigns – or does it?

As we are a state of over 5 million, those groups of 99 and 33 have the elected responsibility and duty of representing the interests of their constituents. 55 percent of the 33 and 53 percent of the 99 are clearly being represented. However, it is with grave concern that not only do I see the interests of the minority 45 and 47 percent not being represented, I see the interests of the minority being completely shut out – even mocked.

My message to you in control – As you shut out and mock the minority, you shut out and mock just under half of the voting citizens of Wisconsin. Half of 5 million is very big number, a number not to take lightly. As you enjoy your closed door sessions and feel no guilt at having shut out almost half of the Wisconsin electorate please bear in mind that your actions do not go unnoticed. While you ignore your responsibility to effectively represent the entire population of Wisconsin, those on the sidelines are preparing their next lesson in accountability. You will and should expect to be held accountable for the results of your actions.

It is not too late. If you believe in your heart of hearts that the budget before you is a great plan as written and adequately represents the interests of your respective constituencies, then vote 'YES'. However, if there is just a tiny piece of you that sees something terribly wrong with the budget you are about to present to our governor, go back to the table and try harder. You might even open the doors and let the other half inside. Who knows, you might even like some of their ideas. Their constituents would appreciate that. Some of their constituents might even like to get involved, or run for office. They might even win.

Thank you,
Jason Kramar
Village Trustee
DeForest, WI