For those watching the painful machinations of Wisconsin politics, you'll know that, despite a million signatures demanding his ouster, Governor Scott Walker retained his post in last month's recall election. The Democrats regained control of the Senate by one vote, however, preventing the Governor from continuing to run the table.
Maybe.
Word out of Milwaukee yesterday has Democratic Senator Tim Cullen suggesting he might flip independent over a perceived slight, as the new Senate Majority Leader failed to appoint Cullen to the committee he wanted. That's right...anybody who feels slighted could end up the most powerful person in the State, as they will control the swing vote. And, right now, Cullen is that guy.
But...that's just the background.
It turns out that Tim was offered a committee chairmanship...but turned it down. And, in an interview on WTMJ Radio yesterday afternoon, he opined that being offered the Chairmanship of the Tourism Committee was "an insult." That such a post was for rural senators (up nort, ya know) that just used the title to look good to their constiuents.
Hey Tim? I understand that most people think that Tourism in Wisconsin is all about up nort. But, the collective economic impact of visitor spending in the counties that you represent in southeastern Wisconsin is over $1.4 billion and employs over 30,000 potential voters.
An "insult" to represent us? To advocate for us? To make sure that Tourism promotion isn't just about "up nort?"
Care to rephrase that thought?
That's what I hate about politics today,and until recently have held politics is a honorable profession.
It used to be: "What's in it for my constituents (and how can it benefit my career)? Now it's what's in it for me?
Posted by: Jack Hughes | July 25, 2012 at 09:37
I think that Tourism in Wisconsinn was dealt a severe blow by the politicians and the unions who tried to bludgeon everyone into bending to their power. Many people who believe in free elections without intimidation will avoid visiting Wiosconsin.
Posted by: Louis L | July 25, 2012 at 16:08
To those that are paying attention and mindfully direct their discretionary dollars to products (and destinations) that share their world view...I agree with Louis.
The reality is, however, most consumers don't care...and will buy (and travel) indiscriminately.
I get where you're going...but I'm not sure it will have a meaningful impact on tourism spending in Wisconsin (or any other destination that challenges political philosophies).
Posted by: Bill Geist | July 25, 2012 at 19:03
STILL a bit bitter about that crushing defeat in the recall, eh? ;-) (Sorry, I just can't help myself...)
Posted by: Tom McMahon | July 27, 2012 at 08:48
Bitter? Me? How does this post paint me as such? You clearly have me confused with someone else.
Posted by: Bill Geist | July 27, 2012 at 20:16
What a disappointing attitude from Senator Cullen! I notice the good Senator has a Facebook page. I'd like to share with him just how hard the people in the tourism industry work. He needs to understand the economic engine that is tourism. The only problem is you have "like" him to write on his wall. Ug.
Here's his contact information: http://legis.wisconsin.gov/w3asp/contact/legislatorpages.aspx?house=Senate&district=15
I hope the people in the industry that are registered to vote in WI share their feelings with the senator.
Posted by: MA | July 31, 2012 at 14:57