Scott Walker's ruthless ambition

[cal04]

From my own experience in Milwaukee, I've seen how the Wisconsin governor operates. Union-busting is his pitch for 2012
John Gardner
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2011/feb/26/wisconsin-republicans

(snip)
As an undistinguished state representative from a safe, white and wealthy Republican Milwaukee suburb, Walker did little but run relentlessly for higher office. Other market-oriented Republican conservatives retooled party platform and image to become more gracious to minorities and the poor. They softened welfare reform with generous childcare, health insurance, wage supplements and transitional employment. Walker sat on his hands. As party peers championed Milwaukee school choice, charter and neighbourhood schools, he remained on the sidelines. A reliable vote, he focused instead on raising funds and cultivating party heavies for the time his chance would come.

From my position managing a non-profit employment group, and later as the city-wide board member for Milwaukee public schools, I interacted with Walker in the legislature. To Republicans like Walker, I was useful as, to my knowledge, America's only white socialist who is for educational vouchers. They, in turn, legislated generous funds for Milwaukee schools.

Walker had candidly no interest in poverty, education, effectiveness or anything except state funds for his district. His district's largest share of the state budget came for a racial integration programme that bussed Milwaukee minority students into his suburb. Unpopular with his voters, it nevertheless subsidised his school district, thereby reducing constituents' property taxes. Simultaneously against spending and taxes, but for massive state subsidies for his district, Walker publicly opposed the programme, but – behind closed doors – made sure it continued.

(snip)
Taxes, in fact, increased 35% during his eight years as Milwaukee county executive. Services nevertheless collapsed. Parks deteriorated, bus routes disappeared and county mental health programmes became notorious for repeated abuse of patients.

[ananda]

1. Yep

The agenda is to destroy budgets and sell off all public sector services and assets
to corporations and special interest groups.

[Stuart G]

2. kick....all should see....