MADISON - Giving opponents just 24 hours to prepare, Republican State Senator Van Wanggaard issued a notice at 12:09 p.m. Wednesday that on Thursday, January 15 at 1:01 p.m., the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety will hold a hearing and executive session on 2015 Senate Joint Resolution 2, relating to the election of the Chief Justice (second consideration).

The resolution will place on the April ballot a state constitutional amendment that would allow the majority of the court oust the renowned Shirley Abrahamson as the Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The Chief would be elected by the court's members every two years.

According to former Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager: "There are many reasons to oppose this resolution, but time is of the essence in voicing your opposition."

Lautenschlager goes on "In short, the purpose of the measure is two-fold: First, it would allow extremist members of the court to replace Shirley Abrahamson in the key office of Chief Justice; second, it would create a ballot issue to drive up the vote of the radical right in the April election when Justice Ann Walsh Bradley will face off against an ultra-right opponent. This measure, coupled with an assembly bill that would create a mandatory age of retirement, sets its sites on one person--Chief Justice Abrahamson."

According to Lautenschlager "It is imperative that we establish a record of opposition to this vindictive measure, and you can be part of this opposition through your emails to members of the committee."

If you oppose this action, simply click on the email addresses below and encourage committee members to vote NO on Senate Joint Resolution 2.

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http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2015/related/proposals/sjr2
http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2015/committees/senate/1376

Lautenschlager concludes "Please join me NOW, and encourage committee members to VOTE NO."