Wisconsin Democrats - Get out that vote today for JoAnne Kloppenburg [View All]

[malaise]

http://motherjones.com/politics/2011/04/wisconsin-walker-election-prosser-union
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The uprising in Wisconsin this winter vividly illustrated that labor unions and progressive groups could still mount a massive fight when pressed. But can the outrage and determination that fueled the Madison protests be channeled into a victory at the ballot box? That's the question, as Wisconsinites today vote to fill a crucial swing seat on the state's seven-person Supreme Court.

The winner of the Prosser-Kloppenburg race could decide whether Walker's "repair" bill, which would eliminate collective bargaining on health care and retirement benefits for most public-sector unions, is upheld or ruled in violation of a state open meetings law. In late March, a state appeals court said that the fate of Walker's bill must be decided by the state Supreme Court because the bill "has broad statewide implications for the general public." The winner of the court's swing seat could ultimately cast the deciding vote on the legality of the bill.

Before the votes are counted, Wisconsin progressives have considered the race a victory. Months ago, no one thought Kloppenburg had a chance of toppling Prosser. That she became a competitive challenger indicates that energy from Wisconsin's protests can be funneled into electoral politics. "Had the protests not happened, Prosser would've skated to victory with an easy victory," says Robert Kraig. "Even if she comes up short, a very powerful message has been sent."
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Whip Walker today!!