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Wisconsin law requires signatures from 25% of voters in the most recent gubernatorial race in districts of targeted legislators. In addition, recalls aren't allowed until after one year in office. On January 4, Walker became eligible. In his case, over 540,000 statewide signatures were needed.
Last July and August, recalls were held. Democrats lost four of six races. Republicans retained legislative control. Good efforts went for naught. Despite turn-out-the-vote campaigns, only 43% of eligible voters participated.
Moreover, union bosses allied with Democrats who made no secret about supporting draconian wage and benefit cuts. In other words, both parties and union officials sided with corporate interests and their own. As a result, rank and file workers lost out. Even so, their struggle continues.
On January 5, Walker told a Washington, DC right-wing American Enterprise Institute audience that he expects a June recall election. He was in town for a fund raiser, anticipating what's coming.
It's Official
On January 17, United Wisconsin (UW) broke the news. Its UW to Recall Walker site headlined, "Over One Million," saying:
Over a million Wisconsinites signed petitions to recall Walker. The achievement represents "the most-participated-in major recall effort in American history, and a number so significant" it's beyond legal challenge. UW board member Ryan Lawler said:
"The collection of more than one million signatures represents a crystal clear indication of how strong the appetite is to stop the damage and turmoil that Scott Walker has caused Wisconsin."
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