“I am disappointed but not shocked by this week’s appointments to the Joint Finance Committee for the 2013 session, not for my own lack of reappointment, but the for the African-American community and other minority communities in Wisconsin.  Long have Senate Democrats recognized the crucial needs of minorities and the overwhelming political support they have received from those communities.  In EVERY session since 1983, Senate Democrats have maintained the presence of an African-American legislator on this important committee which decides almost every important decision affecting the whole of Wisconsin.  2013 will mark the first year in 30 years that Senate Democrats will not make such an appointment.”

“This does not mean that the work will end nor the fights that need to be fought will die away.  My pledge is to continue to represent the hard working men and women of my district that are still waiting on the promises that equality should bring them – an education that actually educates, a right to vote that is not impeded, a health care system that heals, and a government which favors the needs of the least of these among us.  That agenda will not leave the Senate because of this appointment.”

“To my colleagues in both houses, in both parties, on the Joint Committee on Finance and elsewhere, I say thank you for the opportunity to serve with you on this most important committee.  It has been the joy of my first 8 years of service to the people of Wisconsin.  I look forward to the work that is laid before the Legislature this year and our mutual collaboration to achieve results for the people of Wisconsin. “