Contact: Rep. David Bowen (608) 266-7671
Wisconsinites want the Legislature to work together for them over political divisions.
MADISON – State Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) released the following statement regarding Governor Evers’ State of the State Address:
“I was optimistic at this time last year to work with Gov. Evers and legislative Republicans on bipartisan solutions to address the issues facing our communities. What I have found now, however, is that Republican leadership would prefer legislative inaction over advancing the many bipartisan bills that have been introduced this session that have yet to receive the time of day. From bills to protect sex trafficking victims, to bills that are supported by the majority of Wisconsinites like Medicaid expansion and non-partisan redistricting, it is disappointing that Republicans would rather focus on what they can take credit for than pass legislation that would move our state forward.”
Governor Evers addressed a joint session of the State Assembly and State Senate tonight for his second State of the State Address. In his speech, he outlined the progress that Wisconsin has made so far under his leadership, and laid out a progressive vision for what he intends to achieve in his second year in office and beyond.
“After one year in office, Governor Evers has shown that even in divided government, he is committed to investing in our communities and our state, following through on the promises he made to voters. From criminal justice reform to investing in our children, Governor Evers has called on the legislature to act on policies that Wisconsinites want, and frankly, are long overdue. However, there is only so much he can accomplish without the support of legislative Republicans.
“I am proud to have a governor that is committed to addressing the racial disparities in Wisconsin, one of the most segregated states in the country. Whether it is closing the achievement gap between white and Black students, increasing the number of Black teachers in our classrooms, or addressing the racial disparities in our criminal justice system and expanding economic growth all over Wisconsin, I look forward to working with Governor Evers and Republicans in making sure that these policies become reality.”
