It’s What Braunginn Didn’t Say

I read Steve Braunginn’s Opinion article in the June 16th issue of the Isthmus, “Generational clash.” The classic generational fight between the old and the new guy on the block made a great story, and will surely add interest and excitement to the 81st district primary race. I greatly admire the writer as both a servant leader and as a wonderful human being. The article was both fair and balanced but in the end the reader is left with the impression that the voters in the 81st will probably go with the new face, perhaps with more energy and passion than the older and more experienced candidate.

Why then after reading this article did I also feel let down and disappointed? It has to do more with what Brauginn didn’t say. I asked myself how Steve, who is a recognized and well respected voice and political critic for both the white and black communities, could write a political article that completely ignores what I and many citizens believe to be the most critical political and moral crisis that we face today.

How could he raise at least a half dozen issues, and not say a word about where these candidates stand in regards to where and how they plan to pay for their campaign. Who will they be beholden to? Will they fight for the reforms contained in reform Senate Bill #1? Should the reader just assume that like most of our legislators these gentlemen too will be bought off by the corporations and special interests? I believe that Steve knows as I do, that for the most part corporations will have the greatest say about what actions the legislature will take regarding anti-tobacco, payday lending, and most other social issues, not the people of the 81st district.

As a reader, as a citizen, as a voter, I refuse to accept this state of affairs. What about you? Be sure to check the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign data base (wisdc.org) to see how many corporations your candidate will be beholden to and how much each of them paid to get his/her attention and favor.