Many students I encounter only care about issues at the national level. State and local matters seem boring and insignificant to them. While political figures and issues at the national level receive the most coverage and are discussed in coffee houses, the heart of politics is often at more local levels. This year, with the gubernatorial election in Wisconsin this fall and other decisive issues on the ballot or coming before the state Legislature, it is crucial to follow state politics. This session, the Republicans in the legislature are trying to pass three important pieces of legislation — The Defense of Marriage Act, the Personal Protection Act and the Taxpayers' Bill of Rights (TABOR). Tonight, the College Republicans will be hosting proponents of these initiatives at our first meeting of the semester.
State Rep. Mark Gundrum, R-New Berlin, will be speaking about the Defense of Marriage Act. This act — already passed by the Senate and awaiting approval by the Assembly — would place a referendum on the November ballot to allow Wisconsinites to write into our state constitution that the only marriages recognized in this state will be a one-man and one-woman union. This will prevent activist judges from interpreting the State Constitution in such a way that would allow gay marriage. This legislation will ensure the sanctity of marriage while respecting the values and traditions of Wisconsinites.
State Sen. Dave Zien, R-Eau Claire, will be addressing his bill, the Personal Protection Act, also known as conceal and carry. This would allow citizens over the age of 21 to carry a concealed weapon after taking a training course. Forty-six other states already allow law-abiding citizens to carry a concealed gun. Contrary to the claim of many liberals, crime in these states has not exploded since people have been allowed to carry concealed weapons. All the liberal hand-wringing that more guns lead to more crimes is pure malarkey. It is our Second Amendment right as Americans to own and bear arms. Let's not allow the naysayers and their faulty logic overrule a constitutional right.
Finally, State Rep. Frank Lasee, R-Bellevue, will discuss the tremendous need to put a cap on state spending and taxation through a constitutional amendment to control taxes. This initiative, TABOR, will give citizens the right to be heard when taxes are increased. In general, legislators feel an overwhelming urge to give generously to their constituents, sometimes without regard for how this will burden taxpayers. By constitutionally mandating caps and only allowing the caps to be lifted through referenda, TABOR will force legislators to stay within our means instead of just expecting the taxpayers to cough up the dough when they want to fund another program.
While these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to substantial issues at the state level, college students should be aware and informed about what is going on in state politics and how it influences us. Are our constitutional rights protected? Will activist judges overturn our traditions? Is the state overtaxing us? We should be looking at these issues, figuring out where we stand, and actually taking a stand through voting and being involved in the political process. While I know not everyone is going to agree with me on these issues (heck, this is Madison), it is our duty as educated young people to look at the issues and care about more than what is just reported on CNN or in the New York Times.
Jordan Smith ([email protected]) is a senior majoring in political science and pursuing a certificate in business. She is the chair of the College Republicans. The CRs will be meeting this evening in 1175 Grainger Hall at 7 p.m.
