Forward,

Governor Walker Must Lead on Same-Sex Marriage

Since Judge Barbara Crabb ruled Wisconsin’s same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional, the media and general public have been pressing the governor to state his current position on marriage equality. While Walker is typically quick to hammer home his talking points, this issue has caused him to fumble his words and trip through wishy-washy answers. His message has been that, as governor, he has no authority to influence the legal process moving forward.

Walker has repeated over and over that the only two ways the state constitution can change is by a constitutional amendment or through the courts, essentially removing himself from any responsibility in the matter.

However, the facts show the governor can and should lead on this important issue facing our communities and our state.

Last month in Pennsylvania, Gov. Tom Corbett chose not to appeal a court decision that struck down the state’s gay marriage ban. This decision means that same-sex marriage will remain legal in Pennsylvania, without the threat that a higher court will reinstate the ban. While this goes against his political beliefs as a Catholic and conservative Republican, Corbett stated: “My duties as governor require that I follow the laws as interpreted by the courts. … The court has spoken, and I will ensure that my administration follows the provisions of (the) order with respect for all parties.”

Walker must display this same leadership here in Wisconsin. His administration, in conjunction with Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen and the Department of Justice, could retract their appeal of Crabb’s ruling. In fact, they could have supported her initial declaratory ruling that the ban is unconstitutional, which would have cleared the way for same-sex marriages to continue in Wisconsin.

There is no doubt that the arc of history is bending rapidly towards fairness. Marriage equality is a clear example in which the people are ahead of the politicians, with public opinion polls showing overwhelming support for legalizing same-sex marriage. Our state leaders must hear the voices across our state and recognize that the celebration of this commitment by a couple is the cornerstone of who we are as a people. Not for some, but for all. Simply put, it is not the role of government to stand in the way of this bond.

It is interesting that a politician who prides himself on being unintimidated is so rattled by his own views on same-sex marriage. Election year politics aside, I call on the governor to recognize that he does have a leadership role in this issue and to make the right decision for our citizens and our state. I am resolved to remain a vocal champion for equality in our state until it is the law of the land.

2013 was the slowest growth the state has experienced since the midst of the recession. Wisconsin has slipped further in national rankings each year of Walker’s administration after being ranked 11th in the nation when the governor took office. Wisconsin has been consistently in the bottom half of the nation in annual job creation since Walker’s first budget was signed. Quarterly jobs numbers are a hard count of jobs created and represent the most accurate data available.

We can and must do better than the current administration and GOP legislature have done on job creation.

Women in Government Conference

Last week I was in St Louis at the midwest regional conference for Women in Government, a non-partisan group. I presented to them regarding my work involving Homeless and Unaccompanied Youth. I look forward to working with these fabulous women legislators from around the country to address this travesty. This is an issue that crosses state lines and we must work together and take action. It is important for me to network with women legislators from around the country. We work hard to empower each other and work towards sound policy in our communities.

Fire Station #13 Visit

I had the opportunity to welcome Fire Station # 13 to the 48th Assembly District with Chief Davis. What a wonderful public safety addition for the people and businesses on the east side of Madison. We must never take for granted these public servants who keep our homes and communities safe each and everyday. Madison is lucky to have such a great fire chief.

Campus Connect Program

Dane County is again a leader. Madison Metropolitan School District and Madison Area Technical College partner together on Campus Connect. This individualized, transition-based program focuses on employment, access to college classes, and development of self-determination. Students take a minimum of six credits per semester and also have the opportunity to participate in internships and volunteer work. A Madison Metropolitan School District teacher works with students to provide tutoring, collaborate with the disability resource center, and make arrangements with the instructors.

I'm glad that the state understands the importance of promoting and supporting employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Pictured, is my friend Evan who is thriving in the photography program at Madison College. I look forward to continuing to work with students like him.

June 30, 2014
Issue 36

State Capitol
P.O. Box 8953
Madison, WI 53708

Office: (608) 266-0960

Email:
Rep.Sargent@legis.wi.gov

On the Web: sargent.assembly.wi.gov