Just a few random tidbits:
- The Journal Sentinel is reporting Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan is considering a run for governor in 2010. According to the report, Sheridan has said it’s unlikely he’ll run. “I’ve heard from some people around the state,” encouraging him to consider it, Sheridan said. “I certainly am mulling it over, but at this point it’s likely I’m going to stay where I am.”
- Union workers at the Mercury Marine plant in Fond Du Lac rejected contract concessions that would have included a 30% wage cut for new hires and employees called back from layoffs, in addition to the 7-year wage freeze they had already accepted. Predictably, some conservative bloggers are blaming Gov. Doyle, as if Gov. Doyle had any control over how the union voted.
- Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett is said to be “unenthusiastic” about the possibility of running for governor in 2010, while it’s looking more and more likely Rep. Ron Kind is gearing up for a run in 2010.
- I’ve written a bit about the debate over whether to redeck or replace the Hoan Bridge, and at least one area blog is promoting the notion of a criminal conspiracy involving the Metropolitan Milwaukee Area Chamber of Commerce (MMAC), Governor Jim Doyle, Milwaukee Alderman Bob Bauman, and “an as yet unidentified MMAC member land development company.” Apparently a complaint has been filed with the FBI, alleging kickbacks and requesting phone taps and email surveillance of the individuals listed. Sounds kinda kooky to me, but then again, I suppose that’s because I don’t have tunnel vision when it comes to what happens to the Hoan Bridge.
You know how I know Sheridan is running for gov? He’s friending people like crazy on facebook.
It’s true!
Heh…..you could be on to something, Jay!
“Predictably, some conservative bloggers are blaming Gov. Doyle, as if Gov. Doyle had any control over how the union voted.”
Doyle himself claimed to be “fighting” for these jobs. All I did was ask what exactly was he doing to fight for these jobs. Doyle doesn’t have “control” over how the union would vote, true enough, but I never claimed he did. That’s you putting words in my keyboard.
Bottom line is this…we are in a down economy. These tough times make businesses like Mercury Marine vulnerable. Other states see the value in these jobs. Oklahoma presents the example of what is being done to fight for these jobs.
MM’s union has now voted not to accept MM’s “last best offer.” Unless something changes, perhaps at today’s meeting, these jobs are headed South. If that happens, part of the blame falls squarely on Doyle’s slumped shoulders.