Just a few tidbits that I found interesting as I was combing the news:
- Dan Bice is reporting Democratic State Rep. Barbara Toles has earned a unique distinction among Wisconsin lawmakers: she’s the only one who hasn’t introduced a single piece of legislation. As Bice notes, legislative records show Toles hasn’t been the “author” on a single piece of legislation since the two-year session began in January 2009. Asked for comment on her lack of legislative effort, Rep. Toles said, “I’m not interested in the quantity of bills;I’m interested in the quality of bills.” While there’s something to be said for the “quality versus quantity argument,” I find it hard to believe a state legislator couldn’t find one issue that warranted her attention and legislative effort.
- In other news, Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville) finally admitted he’s been dating a lobbyist for the payday loan industry. In speaking about his relationship with the lobbyist and the fact that payday loan legislation has stalled in the Assembly, Sheridan noted “I understand that my integrity is being questioned at this point, but I would not compromise this bill for a personal relationship. It will be a strong bill.”
- And finally, James Wigderson notes that Asher Heimermann, who set up a website encouraging Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett to run for governor, is now trying to sell that site. The asking price? A cool $1,000.
Let’s all go to the lobby,
Let’s all go to the lobby.
Let’s all go to the lobby,
To find ourselves a treat.