Scott Walker calls nixing of landmark WI law that led to mass protests in 2011 a ‘brazen political action’
Former Wisconsin Republican Gov. Scott Walker has spoken out after a county judge in Madison struck down major parts of a 2011 law aimed at public employee unions. Dane County Judge Jacob Frost ruled that certain provisions of the law, known as Act 10, which selectively exempt certain public workers from its restrictions on unionization and collective bargaining, are unconstitutional.
The controversial law, which was passed in 2011, sought to close a budget deficit by limiting collective bargaining and moderating public workers’ benefits. Walker, who was the governor at the time, believed that the law was necessary to address the fiscal situation in the state. The passage of Act 10 led to weeks-long protests inside the state Capitol, with legislative Democrats even fleeing to neighboring Illinois to prevent Republicans from reaching a quorum to vote on it.
Walker survived a recall election in 2012 over the law’s passage and later ran for president in 2016, eventually dropping out of the primary race that was won by Donald Trump. In a recent interview, Walker, who now leads the conservative-training nonprofit Young America’s Foundation (YAF), defended his law, stating that it took power away from “big union bosses” and put it in the hands of hardworking taxpayers.
He criticized the court’s decision to strike down parts of Act 10, calling collective bargaining an “expensive entitlement” rather than a right. Walker disputed the judge’s assertion that the law’s treatment of collective bargaining rights for certain public safety workers and other public workers was unconstitutional, calling it a “bogus political argument.”
Frost’s ruling removed more than 60 sections of the law from the books, but Walker expressed confidence that a Waukesha court would overturn the decision if an appeal is made. He also raised concerns about a potential “liberal activist majority” on the Wisconsin Supreme Court that may hear the case.
Wisconsin Senate President Chris Kapenga echoed Walker’s sentiments, suggesting that partisan politics influenced the ruling and calling for impeachment discussions in the state legislature. Kapenga criticized the judiciary and the state Supreme Court, accusing them of lacking independence.
As president of YAF, Walker is focused on preparing conservative leadership to return to Washington, similar to the changes he brought to Madison in 2010. He highlighted the success of former YAF alumni, such as Stephen Miller and Sergio Gor, who have gone on to work in prominent positions in the Trump administration.
In conclusion, Walker emphasized the importance of engaging younger voters and locking in their support for conservative values. He noted a shift in support among young men towards Trump in the recent election, highlighting the need to continue building on this momentum.
The controversy surrounding Act 10 and the recent court ruling continue to be a topic of debate in Wisconsin, with political implications that may impact future elections and policy decisions. Walker’s defense of the law and his role in shaping conservative leadership reflect his ongoing commitment to advancing conservative principles and values.
