Scott Walker Plans to Derail State’s Recovery

Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker is threatening to turn down $823 million in recovery dollars designated for high-speed rail and slash the wages and benefits of public employees, if elected in November.

“Walker’s plan would certainly create jobs,” says Phil Neuenfeldt, secretary-treasurer of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO. “The problem is that those jobs will be in Illinois, Minnesota and other states smart enough to accept the federal stimulus funding that he would turn away.”

The high-speed rail project is expected to create more than 4,700 Wisconsin jobs and generate economic activity by providing 14 million passengers with fast, convenient travel across the Midwest every year.

If Wisconsin were to reject the project, these job-creating resources would be reallocated to projects in other states.

Neuenfeldt also noted that after Walker came out against the economic recovery act last year, he later flip-flopped and supported $130 million in projects for Milwaukee County.

Walker, currently Milwaukee County Executive, will likely face Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett who has the endorsement of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO.

Walker Would Slash Wages & Benefits, Give Tax Breaks to Rich

Last November, Walker told reporters that if elected to serve as Governor he would cut public employee wages and benefits in order to give more tax breaks to the wealthy.

Walker wants to restore a 60 percent capital gains tax exemption and eliminate tax increases on those earning more than $150,000, or $300,000 for married couples. Walker would also reopen the Las Vegas loophole that allows corporations to hide profits out of state. All three tax reforms were recently enacted to help create a more equitable tax system and make the rich pay their fair share.

Since first elected to the State Assembly in 1993, Walker has been trying to privatize correctional institutions and other public jobs.

“Walker might think that the people who put their lives on the line every day to protect the health and welfare of Wisconsin citizens deserve a pay cut so Walker can give tax breaks to the wealthy, but he could not be more out of touch,” said Marty Beil, executive director of the Wisconsin State Employees Union, AFSCME Council 24.

“His prescription for Milwaukee County has been to wreck services so badly that the state has had to step in repeatedly just to make sure vital functions don't collapse completely. Who can we call on to save us when he starts destroying the entire state?” Beil asked.

“Of course, in Walker’s world, bailouts and tax breaks are for CEOs, not working people. I’m surprised he didn't suggest outsourcing all state workers to China,” Beil said.