MADISON – Today, the United States House of Representatives voted to “condemn the horrors of socialism.” The resolution passed 328-86 with unanimous Republican support and a split Democratic caucus.
Representative Madison (D-10) issued the following statement:
“Republicans in the US House condemned totalitarian governments from around the world because they are unable to critique the incredible legacy of working-class socialist policies in America. Throughout the history of America there has been a multiracial and multigenerational coalition that has advanced widely popular socialist policies such as the 8-hour workday, unemployment insurance, Medicaid and Medicare, and more. Whether it was the Black Panther’s Free Breakfast Program for children or Martin Luther King Jr and the Poor People’s Campaign to end poverty with a Federal Job Guarantee, these initiatives have always been led by marginalized communities and the movement for Black liberation, which perhaps explains the Republican Party’s long standing grudge with ‘Black socialism.’
“One need look no further than Milwaukee’s storied socialist history to see the impact of successful and popular socialist policies in action. Milwaukee’s ‘sewer socialists’ built pragmatic infrastructure that still defines the city to this day. We should thank socialists for their investments in Milwaukee’s parks, libraries, sewers, museums, and for creating Milwaukee’s first public higher-education institution.”
Representative Clancy (D-19) issued the following statement:
“The fact that Republican leaders elected at the federal level are engaging in legislative name-calling instead of working on solutions to the economic and social crises affecting working class families across the county is unfortunate but expected. That so many Democrats would side with them is disappointing.”
“I’m eager to talk about the ‘horrors of socialism:’ like investments in infrastructure, parks, labor rights and basic human needs. Or, perhaps, the sort of investment in public education which will allow future leaders to distinguish between the basic political concepts of despotism, capitalism, and socialism. Some local examples of the pragmatic and wildly popular socialist policies that I have authored and championed for the people of Milwaukee County include the Right to Counsel and paid parental leave. I am eager to spread these opportunities to all people throughout our great state.”
