Sen. Terry Moulton and Rep. Kathy Bernier Listen to Constituents

Written By: Jerry Hanson  |  Posted: Tuesday, April 26th, 2011

                On Tuesday evening, April 19th, the Hallie Townhall was filled to capacity with citizens of the 68th Assembly District who were there to express their concerns over Gov. Walker's 2012 through 2014 budget proposal. Sen. Moulton and Rep. Bernier were careful to emphasize that the budget process is just beginning, and that many changes and amendments will be made before a final budget bill will be ready for a legislative vote. Many of those in attendance encouraged their representatives to not be intimidated by the opposition to get Wisconsin's fiscal house in order. Many others opposed the budget cuts in the current proposal, and were highly critical of their representatives' support of the budget repair bill recently passed. The meeting was originally scheduled to run from 6 PM to 7:30 PM, but due to the high interest the meeting was extended to about 8:15 PM.

                Several of the constituents, like special ed teacher, Heidi James, expressed their frustration with the lack of response and/or the nature of the response they received from Sen. Moulton and Rep. Bernier during the budget repair bill process. Both Sen. Moulton and Rep. Bernier said they regretted not being able to respond to all of the thousands of e-mails and letters received. As freshmen Representatives they are only allowed one staff person, therefore it simply was not possible for them to respond to everyone. Heidi said, "I was very disappointed in the response I got. I felt like I was being talked down to... I hope you will listen to your constituents and compromise with your constituents."

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