capitolisms

Jun 26, 2015

Best way to go about wage repeal? Look no further than defenders’ arguments

In one way, it makes sense that contractors would be particularly eager to keep the state’s prevailing wage laws intact for school projects.

Mar 6, 2015

Fighting a losing battle?

Many reasons have been given for why the crowds that gathered over the past two weeks in protest of Wisconsin’s right-to-work legislation did not come close to rivaling the size of those of four years ago.

Feb 27, 2015

Right-to-work ad wars

A lobbyist for various trades groups says he has no way of knowing if an advertisement he helped put on the air Monday has anything to do with Republican lawmakers’ decision this week to push right-to-work legislation.

Feb 6, 2015

CAPITOLISMS BLOG: Right-to-work and unleashing hungry wolves

In an article appearing next to Terry McGowan’s byline in the winter issue of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139’s Wisconsin News, the president and business manager of the road-builders and excavators union declares there are “strong political allies standing with us” in the fight against right-to-work legislation, changes to the state’s prevailing wage and similar[...]

Sep 19, 2014

Digging yourself a hole

Let’s leave aside for a moment the debate about whether Gov. Scott Walker set a bad example in a recent campaign advertisement video showing him using a ladder to climb out of a trench sans gloves, helmet or other protective gear.

Mar 13, 2014

Giving credit where it’s not due

Politicians are often faulted for taking credit for things they cannot possibly control.

Dec 27, 2013

Remember that push for workers’ comp change?

For the policy advisors entrusted with proposing changes to Wisconsin’s workers’ comp system, the past few weeks must have been like the seconds that immediately follow a person’s dropping a penny into a deep well.

Dec 23, 2013

Well, at least we’re not a judicial hellhole

It’s too bad for the Republicans who control the statehouse that tort reform seems to be far less of an issue of public concern than the economy.

Dec 18, 2013

Who’s keeping an Eye on lawmakers?

Tuesday’s Assembly Veterans Committee opened with a declaration I’ve heard more than a few times since I started covering the Capitol about a year ago.

Nov 6, 2013

State construction projects: Made in China?

Why is it that whenever U.S. lawmakers say they don’t want to enter into a race to the bottom with China, the evil they wish to avoid is low wages and never government interference in markets?

Nov 1, 2013

The statehouse: A place paved with the best intentions?

Until 5:05 p.m. Wednesday night, state Rep. Gary Hebl thought there would be an amendment to a bill requiring the installation of devices that prevent someone convicted more than once of drunken driving from starting a car after having a drink.