Wednesday's Republican spending bill is nothing more than a political stunt aimed at hindering Governor Evers’ ability to improve Wisconsin for all.

MADISON - Yesterday the senate voted, along party lines, to pass the Republican’s irresponsible spending bill. This bill is nothing more than a political stunt aimed at hindering Governor Evers’ ability to improve Wisconsin for all, and it has led Republicans to vote for a bill that they know they cannot fund. The Republican spending plan will end up costing taxpayers more in the long-run, in order for Republicans to keep in place tax handouts to millionaires. I am disappointed to see their refusal to collaborate, and instead put their corporate donors first.

The Republicans spending plan, paired with their Foxconn aspirations, would exceed the expected budget balance before the process even begins. Governor Evers will be introducing his budget in a couple weeks, and the Republicans are attempting to tie his hands. The voters of the state sent a clear message in November that they want more investments in schools, health care and infrastructure, and by spending down Wisconsin’s general fund (GPR), the GOP would be hindering the Governor’s ability to deliver on those needs.

Due to the lack of school aids under former Governor Walker, taxpayers in Wisconsin have resorted to raising their own property taxes in order to ensure our kids have the resources they need. Wisconsinites have voiced their concerns over growing health care costs, while Republicans continue to turn away Medicaid dollars and threaten health care protections, and our infrastructure is crumbling, forcing communities to resort back to dirt roads. GOP lawmakers have no problem squandering away taxpayer dollars, forcing hard-working Wisconsinites to make up the difference.

Making substantial spending decisions prior to the budget being introduced is reckless and irresponsible. We will have months of discussions and decision making once Governor Evers introduces his proposal in a couple weeks, and Wisconsinites deserve a sustainable tax relief plan. We need to put money back in the pockets of the middle-class, while creating opportunities and growing our communities. It is possible to give the middle-class a tax cut, and make needed investments in our state. It is time that we stop playing politics, and reach across the aisle on real, smart solutions that work for all.

Martha is leaving the Party stronger, more competitive, and ready to secure more wins on behalf of Wisconsinites. We on Team Evers are grateful for her leadership.

MADISON - The following is the response from the Tony for Wisconsin campaign to State Democratic Chair Martha Lanings's announcement Wednesday that she will not seek re-election in the Party’s June leadership race.

“Chair Laning’s leadership and vision were an important part of our success in November,” said Sean Elliott, Tony for Wisconsin's finance director. “Martha’s drive and passion to see a better future for our state helped deliver historic victories for Wisconsin Democrats. Though Martha has led the Party through some of its most challenging moments, through all the obstacles, she has maintained a relentless optimism in Wisconsin Democrats’ ability to win and lead.

“The robust Party infrastructure Martha has built will continue to support and deliver victories for Wisconsin Democrats for years to come. Martha is leaving the Party stronger, more competitive, and ready to secure more wins on behalf of Wisconsinites. We on Team Evers are grateful for her leadership and years of service to the cause, and we look forward to working with the Party’s next chair.”

State Democratic Chair since 2015 will not seek re-election in the Party’s June leadership race.

MADISON - Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Martha Laning, who has served in the role since being elected in 2015, has offered the following statement on her decision not to seek re-election in the Party’s June leadership race:

“Four years ago, I ran to become Chair because I knew that Wisconsin Democrats needed a strong party infrastructure, a robust and engaged grassroots network, and a clear vision for what it means to be a Democrat. Like so many people in our state, I was deeply concerned about how the policies of Scott Walker and Wisconsin Republicans were taking opportunity away from our kids, jeopardizing the future of our communities and turning Wisconsin into a state none of us recognized anymore. I wanted to do my part to help.

Martha Lanning talks to media after delegates to the 2015 Democratic Party of Wisconsin convention elect her as party chair.

“Four years later, I am incredibly proud of the Party we have built. For the first time since 1982, Democrats hold all five constitutional state offices, lead by Governor Tony Evers who will put the people first as he champions our Wisconsin values. We re-elected our Senator Tammy Baldwin so she could continue her work improving the lives of Wisconsinites and protecting those that need it most.

“These victories didn’t happen by accident. We launched an unprecedented year-round, every-year organizing program to empower activists across our state to inspire, engage and turn-out Democratic voters. We bolstered our candidate services team to support down-ballot candidates and helped them run competitive campaigns. We ensured the Party had the financial resources to support our ambitious plans.

“Given these accomplishments and the bright future ahead for Wisconsin Democrats, I believe this is the perfect time for me to transition to my next challenge. I will not stand for reelection as DPW Chair this coming June and welcome the opportunity to support new leadership as they take the helm this summer. I remain committed to the Party and to our Democratic values, and I will continue to lead the Party with the same transparency and vigor as we prepare for the next Chair’s race and leadership transition following June’s election.

“It has been an honor to work with so many caring and passionate activists who give their time to help make our vision a reality. I am humbled to work with a staff that doesn’t see the work just as a job, but as a calling to build a stronger Wisconsin. Chairing the Democratic Party of Wisconsin has been an incredible opportunity, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work we’ve done together to move Wisconsin forward.”

Scott Walker's former legal counsel likened homosexuality to bestiality, would be another extreme partisan on the Supreme Court

MADISON - In Supreme Court candidate Brian Hagedorn’s first public interview since news broke that he once authored a blog with radical, hateful content, Hagedorn refused to apologize or even walk back statements he made as extreme as likening homosexuality to bestiality. Talking to conservative radio host John Muir, Hagedorn lashed out at those criticizing his posts, rejecting suggestions that if elected, he consider recusing himself from cases where he’s expressed a personal political belief.

“It’s unacceptable that it’s been four days and Wisconsin voters still don’t know whether or not Brian Hagedorn still holds these extreme, partisan beliefs,” said Courtney Beyer, Democratic Party of Wisconsin spokesperson. “Wisconsinites want their courts to be independent, but Hagedorn won’t even commit himself to the basic expectations of fairness and transparency. Brian Hagedorn is just another extreme partisan whose fringe, radical beliefs belong nowhere near our courts."

Hagedorn's partisan agenda has no place on Wisconsin's highest bench.

MADISON -- Reporting from Dan Bice at the Journal Sentinel has shined a spotlight on the extremely radical content found on the blog of Supreme Court candidate and former counsel to Scott Walker, Judge Brian Hagedorn. Bice reports that Hagedorn maintained a blog where he regularly wrote posts dehumanizing members of the LGBTQ community, even going so far as to relate homosexuality with bestiality. Hagedorn is vying for a seat on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court against Chief Judge of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals Lisa Neubauer.

“Hateful statements like these are wholly disqualifying,” said Martha Laning, chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. “Wisconsinites expect their judicial system to be fair and independent, but Hagedorn’s extreme beliefs and radical, partisan agenda put him out-of-step with these values. Hatred like this goes against everything we in Wisconsin believe in, and it has no place on our state’s highest bench.”

Hagedorn's spokesperson offered no apology for his past remarks in a statement released to Bice and refused to admit whether or not Hagedorn still held these beliefs.

After 8 years of Scott Walker divide and conquer, it's refreshing to see a Governor willing to find common ground.

MADISON - On Tuesday, newly elected Governor Tony Evers gave his 2019 State of the State Address in the Assembly Chambers of the Wisconsin State Capitol. Green Bay's Senator Dave Hansen was there and had the following response.

“After 8 years of divide and conquer from Scott Walker to hear a message of hope it was a breath of fresh air to hear our new governor talking about wanting to work together on behalf of the people for a change.

“He delivered a positive message of hope and a willingness to work together to move Wisconsin forward, not just for the special interests but for all the people, especially those who have been left behind by the policies of the last 8 years.

“It has also been refreshing to see a Governor travelling the state holding listening sessions that are open to anyone who wants to attend them compared to the invite-only affairs that Scott Walker held.

“Hopefully we’ll be able to find common ground on some of the big issues like pre-existing conditions, public school funding, roads and finding ways to create good paying jobs throughout our state.”

Shilling reaffirms Senate Democratic commitment to Governor’s priorities

MADISON, WI – Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) released the following statement in response to Gov. Evers’ State of the State address:

“For too long, we’ve seen misguided priorities under Republican control that favor the wealthy and well connected. This is a new era in our state, and it is refreshing to have a Governor that is committed to focusing on the people of Wisconsin rather than playing political games. Senate Democrats are eager to work with Gov. Evers on the issues impacting Wisconsin families every day. We will deliver on his plan to improve health care, strengthen schools, fix our roads and invest in pro-growth policies that build up the middle class.

“Democrats are committed to lowering property taxes, strengthening local schools and giving Wisconsin children the best possible education by restoring millions in state aid cut by Republicans. We are going to grow our economy from the ground up by raising wages, expanding access to paid sick leave and making child care more affordable for working families. We remain dedicated to jump-starting small business development, investing in 21^st century infrastructure by fixing our crumbling roads and bridges and expanding high-speed broadband internet access.

“With Gov. Evers’ leadership, these goals are all within our reach, but we need to find new ways to work together, invest in our communities and expand opportunities for everyone – not just the wealthiest one percent.”

Says people of Green Bay want access to affordable healthcare, public schools fully funded, and our roads fixed. Governor Tony Evers on track.

MADISON – State Representative Staush Gruszynski (D-Green Bay) offered the following remarks after attending Governor Tony Evers’ first State of the State Address at the State Capitol on Tuesday evening.

“Governor Tony Evers’ State of the State Address shows that the Governor has a clear agenda that sets politics aside to put the people of Wisconsin first. Like the Governor, I am ready to work with my colleagues in the legislature to move Wisconsin forward, which is exactly what my constituents asked me to do. The people of Green Bay want access to affordable healthcare, they want to see our public schools fully funded, and they want us to fix our roads. So does Governor Evers, and so do I,” Gruszynski said.

Gruszynski was elected to represent the 90th Assembly District in November 2018 and serves on the following Assembly committees: the Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation, the Committee on Local Government, the Committee on Sporting Heritage, the Committee on Tourism, and the Committee on Rural Development.

Milwaukee - Senator Larson released the following statement regarding Governor Evers’ First State of the State Address

“In his first State of the State Address, Governor Evers laid out a strong vision for a first term that has a foundation in working together for the benefit of all of our friends and neighbors, not just those who can afford an army of lobbyists. There are hundreds of thousands of Wisconsin families who have been left behind over the last eight years and are struggling to make ends meet. During that same time, some of our wealthiest corporations and citizens have done very well. Whether it is access to healthcare, a reasonable living wage, or funding our public education and infrastructure, Governor Evers recognizes the significant challenges facing our neighbors across Wisconsin.

“One of our cherished Wisconsin values is that we care about our neighbors. Governor Evers wants to restore that value and make sure that everyone in Wisconsin has the same access to opportunity.”

Wisconsin Values, Priorities Highlighted By The Governor

MADISON – Assembly Democratic Leader Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh) released the following statement regarding Governor Tony Evers’ first State of the State Address:

“How refreshing to see an agenda that expands health care access, makes a commitment to our public schools, and rebuilds our transportation infrastructure. These are the issues that people across Wisconsin care about, and these are the issues Governor Evers is prioritizing.

“It is a new era for Wisconsin. Governor Evers is focused on restoring our shared Wisconsin values, not his political future. The core principles of the new Administration are the ideals we should all strive for: equity, opportunity, and community. Governor Evers knocked it out of the park tonight.”