July 27, 2004
Meanwhile, back in Madison
It is quite remarkable that our state with the tradition of thoughtful leaders like Robert and Phil La Follette, John Bascom, Fred Harvey Harrington, Gaylord Nelson, Warren Knowles, and yes, even Tommy Thompson, would tolerate the nonsense going on in Madison right now. The fact is a right-winger has challenged Mary Panzer because the Republican-dominated Legislature has not passed the irresponsible and nutty Taxpayers Bill of Rights.
Answer? Panzer and Sun Prairie's "second Assemblyman" John Gard have called on Democrats to return home from the Democratic convention to quickly vote on a constitutional amendment that has not yet been drafted! I rarely use exclamation marks, but this circus deserves at least one.
There have been no debates, citizens have no idea how this reckless amendment would alter their lives, and the leaders of the effort make Jimmy Carter's point about "extremism." This extreme measure pushed by the Bradley Foundation, Charlie Sykes, and the far right of the Republican Party makes no sense. But even if it made perfect sense, to pass an amendment to our constition in 48 hours is outrageous.
I suggest Panzer simply announce her support, get back to her primary, and wait until January. Not one person has ever said to me, "Boy, we sure need TABOR and we need it now."
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