The preliminary to the main event, the presidential election in November, took place yesterday, Tuesday, June 5th. Local politics seemed to be of some concern, but overall voter turnout could set a new low,perhaps 27-28%. Pundits enjoy chastising eligible voters for their lack of interest and participation. No surprises there, given the abysmal state of government activity, and the bankruptcy of the Golden State. The Democrat, Jerry Brown, has not been able to unify his own party to deal with shortfalls. Where is the leadership? Where are the elected representatives doing their best?
Perhaps the big news came from Wisconsin, where the main event was the recall of the governor. He survived and it wasn't close. The Republican, Scott Walker, took on state employees and their unions. He had signed a law forcing them to pay more for pensions. Four state legislators were also voted on. Only one of the four was recalled. OBama won Wisconsin by 14% in 2008. Wisconsin is a swing state and is looked upon as up for grabs. Republicans will now focus on voters willingness to challenge sacrosanct state employee unions, a source of much financial support for Democratic candidates. The 44 year old Walker can now go forward with a new mandate to ensure a balanced state budget, something lacking in New York and California.
Come November when triple the number of voters will turn out, candidates must hit the road to take their message to the hinterlands.
Good Luck!
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