Legislators lack of action is shameful and indefensible

It isn’t what they did that was so shameful, it was what they didn’t do. Republican leaders of the Wisconsin Legislature did as they were required when they called to order a special session as directed by the Governor. Governor Evers scheduled the special legislative session to discuss issues relating to policing and racial injustice. But as soon as the meeting started, it was ended. What lawmakers didn’t do is to hold a vote on the bills, or even debate them. They did not hold public hearings, allowing those who say they were mistreated by police to tell their stories. They didn’t do anything to make life better for Wisconsin’s minority communities. They didn’t seek to right wrongs or ensure justice for all. They didn’t do anything to find common ground on this difficult issue. They didn’t lead, they didn’t even govern. They simply played the role of obstructionists. Their behavior is shameful, embarrassing and a waste of taxpayer money. We need leaders who will address the difficult issues, not simply try to pretend they don’t exist of will somehow go away by doing absolutely nothing.