MADISON Mayor ?s Walker: "What steps did you or others take to carry out plan to disrupt protests?

[kpete]

More Answers Needed
February 25, 2011 5:01 PM

More Answers Needed

I sent the following open letter to Governor Scott Walker today.


February 25, 2011


Governor Scott Walker
Governor, State of Wisconsin
State Capitol, Room 115 East
Madison, WI 53702

Dear Governor Walker:

In a press conference yesterday you were asked about comments you made regarding a suggestion to bring "troublemakers" to downtown Madison to disrupt the peaceful protests taking place here. At the press conference you said that this suggestion was made and considered but rejected for political reasons.

I believe I join most Wisconsinites who find those comments deeply troubling. The protests in Madison have received national recognition for their civility. They have been loud and passionate, but also peaceful.

Police and protesters have complimented one another on their behavior. The police have been patient and professional while the protesters have been orderly and respectful of their surroundings. For their governor to seriously entertain for even a moment the idea of disrupting the peaceful expression of civic engagement is a very serious concern.

Like most Wisconsinites I want to believe that our governor would not engage in this kind of behavior. Yet, your response so far has been less than reassuring. I hope that you can address these concerns by answering the following questions:

• Who made the suggestion to disrupt the protests?

• What was the exact nature of the suggestion?

• What was your immediate response?

• What steps, if any, did you or others take to carry out the plan to disrupt protests?

• Why didn't you reject it along legal and moral grounds instead of political considerations?

I am not necessarily expecting a direct response to me. But I hope that you will deal with these questions in the coming days and provide your responses to the media and to the people of Wisconsin.


Our police officers work hard to protect the public. When the top elected official in our state and a person sworn to uphold the law entertains the notion of breaking the peace that official needs to reassure these officers and the public of his intentions.

Sincerely,



David J. Cieslewicz
Mayor
http://www.cityofmadison.com/mayor/blog/

[gratuitous]

1. Did the mayor enclose a hefty campaign "contribution"?

If not, I'd advise him not to hold his breath while waiting for an answer from Gov. Walker. That's not the way he rolls.

[Overseas]

2. K&R and Many Thanks ! //nt