Every poll shows strong opposition to Gov. Scott Walker and his attempt to end collective bargaining for public employees. At least half a dozen national polling firms have come to similar findings: Scott Walker is on the short end of a 60-40 split.
What's more, people "on the ground" are energized. There are 33 members of the Wisconsin state senate. According to Wisconsin law, you have to be in office for one year before you can be recalled. 16 of the 33 qualify, and all 16 of them--8 Republicans and 8 Democrats--are targets of recall efforts. Gov. Walker will be eligible on Jan. 3, 2012.
While both Republicans and Democrats are in the process of recall, most of the energy seems to be with the protesters and the unions. On the first weekend of the recall effort, 600 volunteers hit the streets to get signatures opposing Alberta Darling, one of the GOP senators. Says one protester:
I know that the signature-collecting process went extremely well last weekend. Well-organized locally, and a good turn-out of volunteers. Going door-to-door, there were a few grouches, and a lot of people EAGER to sign. There were residents walking out in their neighborhoods who saw folks with clipboards who literally ran over to sign the recall petition. More often than not, people just said "you don't need to say any more, just tell me where to sign". Most frequently asked question: "can I sign a recall petition for Walker, too?" Patience folks, we'll be back to get that guy, too. The volunteers got a LOT of signatures, and they're just getting started. The people are energized, they feel empowered, and they are proud to be part of something historic.
They'll need to be very organized. Wisconsin law requires a large number of signatures--25% of the votes cast in the most recent election for governor in that district--and a 60 day window in which to get them. Craig Gilbert of the Milwaukee Journal has a helpful chart showing which state senators are most vulnerable as well as the number of signatures required in each senatorial district. Contribute to the recall effort here.
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