The world lost a selfless and inspiring leader when former astronaut and Senator from Ohio John Glenn passed away on Thursday.

MADISON - In light of the passing of war veteran, astronaut, and US Senator John Glenn, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Martha Laning released the following statement:

"Today is a sad day for all Americans with the passing of hero Sen. John Glenn. Sen. Glenn admirably served America in World War II and the Korean War, was the first astronaut to ever orbit the earth, and served honorably in the United States Senate. His service to our country will never be forgotten, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Wisconsin ranks 34th in the nation over the last five years on private-sector job growth. We deserve more.

MADISON – Bureau of Labor Statistics' quarterly jobs figures show that Wisconsin continues to lag behind the nation in jobs. Wisconsin ranks 34th in the nation over the last five years on private-sector job growth. The people of Wisconsin have suffered under 20 consecutive quarters – or five full years – of below-average job growth.

“Wisconsin ought to be a top-ten economy but Republicans have been far more focused on rigging our political system to keep themselves in power rather than growing jobs," said Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha). “Republican inaction on jobs has prevented Wisconsin from benefiting from national economic growth that is helping workers and businesses in many states get ahead."

Assembly Democrats promise to push an aggressive agenda to grow jobs, support a robust middle class, and kick-start new businesses. They renewed their call for a summit to grow Wisconsin jobs, reach the goal of making Wisconsin a top-ten state in jobs, and address the state’s dead last ranking in start-ups.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/flood-wi-road-s5.jpgLocal residents are facing increased damage to roads and bridges from recent floods. Rainfall intensity in Wisconsin is increasing, and the state should consider building structures, like bridges, to accommodate more intense weather.

The recount is important for five reasons, (1) it was close, (2) late deductions were from Trump, (3) Outagamie County had more people voting than voters, (4) Trump’s wild charge on illegal voters, and (5) it’s always good to test the machinery.

MADISON - I’m glad there’s going to be a recount here in Wisconsin.

Here’s why:

Five valid reasons for the Wisconsin presidential recount

Requiring an accurate count is a bare minimum for our democracy.

Another bare minimum is respect for the Fourth Amendment. But the Wisconsin Supreme Court, sharply and oddly divided, just took another whack at it, as I explain here:

Wisconsin Supreme Court shreds 4th amendment

One more thing: Today is Giving Tuesday, when people all across the country are encouraged to make charitable online donations. So I’m urging you to make a tax-deductible donation right now to the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign. It’s easy: All you have to do is click here.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/trump-clinton-debate2-s5.jpgNewly formed State Elections Commission decides to place speed over accuracy to complete recount before the holidays. The campaigns of Stein, de la Fuente or a combination of both have pledged to pay the full cost.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/mining_wisconsin_senate_s5.jpgSen. Vinehout writes about how she drafts commonsense legislation from listening to her constituents, how ideas are born in the capitol, and the importance of speaking out if Wisconsin’s laws need to be changed.