Valerie Cass gets a sweet state job, leapfrogs other candidates

This is a few days old, but I think it’s worth mentioning here.

You’ll remember I noted how Valerie Cass, Republican State Senator Randy Hopper’s mistress has landed a temporary state job with a hefty pay increase over her predecessor, but Tony Galli of WKOW’s Inside Scoop blog noted last week that Cass got her state job by leapfrogging other candidates, despite the fact that records indicate Cass was never actually a formal applicant for any state job.

State records released to WKOW27 News show candidates for various jobs in Governor Walker’s administration were passed over despite recommendations from high-level officials, while a woman with ties to Sen. Randy Hopper (R-Fond du Lac) was hired to a position with an immediate salary increase, without formally being recorded as a job applicant.

Officials said Valerie Cass, 26, was hired to a limited term communications specialist position in the department of regulation and licensing last month at a pay rate thirty five percent higher than the worker she replaced because the position’s duties were expanded to include legislative outreach activities. Cass’ salary is equivalent to $42,328 annually. Sources confirmed Cass has a relationship with Hopper, who is estranged from his wife and in the midst of a pending divorce matter. Hopper has denied to WKOW27 News playing any role in Cass’ hire.

Without saying too much, I’ll just note Valerie Cass’ new position (and the pay raise that comes along with it) is certainly well-timed.