Representative Swearingen Responds to Governor Evers' Budget Request
Governor Evers delivered his proposed budget address to state lawmakers yesterday. Despite hearing repeated remarks that Governor Evers would be willing to work towards bi-partisanship and seek common ground, the Governor's budget proposal goes to show that he isn’t interested in working across the aisle. This is clearly a missed opportunity for us to work together. I’m very disappointed that the Governor’s plan left out significant issues for the Northwoods that directly impact my constituents. Furthermore, I’m disappointed Governor Evers wants to:
Increase taxes on job-creators & farmers
Vastly expand welfare programs, which already comprise 1/3 of the state budget
Provide driver’s licenses and taxpayer-funded in state tuition perks to illegal immigrants
Restore taxpayer funding for planned parenthood
Wisconsin is pointed in the right direction. The new budget should reflect and pivot off the proven reforms that we’ve made over the last eight years. Divided government should not be a time for inaction. I look forward to working with my colleagues to put together a realistic budget that reflects the values and priorities of all of Wisconsin.
UW-Eau Clair Building Commission Tour
As the Vice Chair of the Wisconsin State Building Commission, I joined several of my Republican colleagues this week to tour UW-Eau Claire's aging science hall. UW-Eau Claire requested the building be replaced, and it is important that we do our due diligence to make sure that funds for state building projects are allocated appropriately. The tour certainly shed light on why a new building is needed. I look forward to working with the members of the Building Commission to approve and oversee the construction of a new science facility in the future.
Rep. Swearingen accompanied Building Commission members and other local area Representative's during the tour.
Please click above to watch the story WEAU 13 News did on our visit.
Badger State Sheriffs Association Legislative Day
The Badger State Sheriffs Association held their annual legislative day in the Capitol last week, and I had the opportunity to meet with Florence County Sheriff Dan Miller, Vilas County Sheriff Joe Fath, and Oneida County Sheriff Grady Hartman. We had a great discussion on the Association’s legislative priorities this session and also Law Enforcement's perspective regarding what sort of impact marijuana legalization could have in Wisconsin.
Thanks again for making the trip down to Madison, and thank you to all our law enforcement officers who protect and serve our communities.
Subaru Winter Driving Experience
Last week, I had the opportunity to take part in the Subaru Winter Driving Experience on Dollar Lake in Eagle River. Now in its second year, the event was the vision of Junior World Rally Champion and Subaru Rally Team USA driver Patrik Sandell, and is operated under his supervision.
This year, the three week event attracted over 200 students from all around the country and is a great economic boost to the surrounding community. A big thank you to the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation, Subaru USA, and the owner of the Chanticleer Inn, Jake Alward, for hosting this great event in the Northwoods. The organizers are considering expanding the event to a full month next year, and I wish them continued success as it grows.
Winter conditions in Eagle River were definitely in full effect this past weekend.
Executive Director of the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation Bob Egan, Junior World Rally Champion and Subaru Rally Team USA driver Patrik Sandel, and Chanticleer Inn Owner Jake Alward.
Great to meet and drive with Patrik!
Thanks again to the Chanticleer Inn for their great hospitality.
ABATE Meeting
This week ABATE (A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments) held their Biker legislative day in the Capitol. I discussed with members their legislative priorities which include initiatives to strengthen driver’s awareness of motorcycles on the road. Thanks again for stopping by.
Rep. Swearingen at the joint meeting with other legislators and staff.
Community Events
Please click the following links for upcoming community events!
