Reflections on a State in Turmoil and an Election

Last night a Wisconsin State Journal reporter asked me how I felt about the primary results.  Soglin beats Cieslewicz in primary, setting up general election showdown.  I told the reporter,

On a personal basis, it's very heartwarming. But that's not why I'm in the race. I ran because I love this city and I want it to be the best place possible.

Wisconsin and Madison face serious challenges in the next few years. The recession which looks more like a depression, the fiscal condition of the state and city budgets, and the tired, conventional thinking which makes the situation more critical.

The primary results last night were rewarding, but that is not what the campaign is about. The 2011 Madison mayoral race is about the people of this city. The 2011 Madison mayoral race is about who can best deal with Governor Walker's budget repair bill that turns the clock back sixty years.

Almost 49% of school kids live in homes that are below the poverty line. More and more builders who construct housing, offices, and shopping are working in Dane County outside of Madison. City finances are troubling as we hit record borrowing and our per capita cost of government rises.

I learned long ago that while the mayor must identify the problems, the solutions come from the community. My supporters are neighborhood activists and real estate developers, public employees and citizens concerned about taxes and city finances. I doubt they will agree on the same solution to every problem.

The job of the mayor and the city council is to bring those folks together, utilize the professional city staff, and arrive at the best resolution that reflects our shared values.

That is why I am running, that is why I am so energized and excited about serving. We cannot wait for years; we must start now.

 

Editor's Note: Campaign contributions can be made out to Soglin for Mayor and mailed to PO Box 1228, Madison WI 53701. Please include contact information and whether we can use your name as a supporter.  Let us know if you can volunteer or sponsor a fundraiser. State law requires you to supply employer information (name and address) if your contribution is over $100 in a calendar year. The campaign website at http://www.soglinformayor.com is now able to take online contributions, but please feel free to go old school via the US Postal Service.

Comments

[Eleanor Morstad]

Congrads Paul feels like the good old days! Bringing life back into Wisconsin! You need to reach out to those around the state as I for one would send $$$ if I knew where to send it. I am sure there are others who would do the same!
Eleanor Morstad
W7919 Smock Valley Road
Monroe Wisconsin

[Barry Orton]

Thanks, Eleanor. Read the last part of the post to see where to send money.

[Molly]

Congratulations, Paul!~ What a great win.

However - was it a 14% turnout? OY! That's tragic.

Wishing you more success going forward.

Molly