We stood in a crowded square outside the state Capitol in Madison. Teachers, fire fighters, police officers, moms, and dads chanted, "This is what democracy looks like."

It was powerful. And as the election results came in, something else was clear: The voters are powerful.

When Republicans declared war on working families, we could have retreated. But together, we took the fight onto their home turf and put them on defense for a change. And in 2 of 6 Republican strongholds, we won.

History will deem last night a victory for progressives. Here are some key facts:

• Gov. Scott Walker no longer has a working majority in the Senate. His extreme anti-worker bill passed by only 2 votes, thanks to 1 moderate Republican. Our 2 wins are game changing.
• If last night's election was statewide, Democrats would have won in a landslide. We forced neck-and-neck races in Republican areas. 
• In 2012, if Democrats achieve last night's rate of success in Republican House districts, Speaker Nancy Pelosi will have a 274-seat majority.  
• We sent a national message that when Republican politicians hurt working families, voters will punish them -- even in Republican areas.
• We also proved that when Democrats stand strong for progressive principles -- as Wisconsin Democrats did -- they will be rewarded by voters and volunteers.

Elliot Astur, a song writer from New York, was deeply moved by the events in Wisconsin stripping union members of their rights and was inspired to write a song and create a video dedicated to Wisconsin’s State Workers, Teachers, Nurses, Farmers, and other Public Workers who have peacefully, but relentlessly protested on the streets of Madison and throughout the state, valiantly fighting to retain their rights.

Hey Everyone, Over the past few months our office has accomplished some incredible things. 23,000 calls in one week with our "14 for THE 14" effort. 1,400 door knocks and 8,600 calls in ONE DAY with our "EXTRAORDINARY Statewide Day of Action." Helping collect an unprecedented 150,000 recall signatures in 60 days. Scott Walker and the Republican leadership never thought we could do this, period. Help us finish strong with our "Get Out The VOTE!" efforts! The election days for the recall campaigns are now set. Our six Democratic challengers will have primaries on July 12th and the general election on August 9th. Our three members of the "FAB 14" will have primaries on July 19th and the general election on August 16th. All of our hard work comes down to these four moments. Join our "Get Out The VOTE!" efforts and make these moments ours! The Republicans have tried to delay the democratic process and avoid the voters of our state. Right now they are thinking of new ways to try to disenfranchise, discourage, and confuse us. Over these next 54 days, we MUST stick together and stay focused on our goal. Taking back the State Senate is the first step in Taking Back Wisconsin.We need your help to do it. Go to: bit.ly/getoutthevotemadison to join us!

 
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Stay informed!!
WE WILL NOT FORGET!!

West Virginia Resolution

Vermont Resolution

  Volunteer to Recall the Republican 8 Senators
Click Here


Click Here to see actual Budget Bill.
Click here to see ammendments.


State Capitol
 
Come down and see Democracy!!

7 Days a Week in Capitol Rotunda Any Time!!

Come anytime to show your support.  It is amazing to see what democracy looks like!!
 
Click here for information about the rallies and bus schedules.

Dear Members,

These past few months have been extremely busy for those who are trying to find answers to questions regarding the governor's union bill.  I appreciate all the support being shown and urge you to continue to show support via appropriate channels.  Democracy allows for all of us to have a voice---And I have seen thousands of those voices.

I am committed to finding the answers to all those questions, but first we must continue the fight to protect our rights.   After our contract expires, we will lose all bargaining rights AND employee relations provisions.  Ever had an issue with a supervisor, well you may be losing any chance of getting it looked into after our contract expires!!  Get to the Capitol off work time or with approval!

Please demonstrate the professionalism our Local union has shown through the years.  In the workplace, be considerate and tolerant of those with differing opinions.  Political discussions tend to polarize individuals and emotions tend to run high.  Please refrain from disrupting our workplace in any way. Take your concerns to the capitol, email, or phone.

I have been awestruck by the support shown from our members and those not even affected by this change.  Continue the positive fight!  When we fight we win.  One day longer!

One Voice, One Dollar, ONE VOTE!

In solidarity,

Mike Ledwidge, BS, RDMS, RVT
President Local 1942