Over the last couple of months, Madison residents have seen one side of democracy in full force. Massive protests, unlike anything ever seen in Wisconsin’s history, have engulfed the Capitol for weeks on end. Citizens, whatever their political leanings, have found a new and vocal passion for politics. Much of this passion can be traced to last November’s election, when those who bothered to show up to vote overwhelmingly voted for candidates pushing the current volatile legislation. Today, voters have a chance to rectify their previous apathy and bring on change at the local level.
Undoubtedly the most high-profile race in the state, the Supreme Court competition has been framed as integral to the future of Gov. Scott Walker’s budget and collective bargaining bills.
Incumbent Justice David Prosser – a conservative-leaning candidate opponents have tried to align with Walker – will be defending his seat against Assistant Attorney General JoAnne Kloppenburg. She has been painted as a more liberal answer to the state’s Republican-dominated Legislature.
On the city level, incumbent Mayor Dave Cieslewicz is vying for a record third consecutive term against two-time former Mayor Paul Soglin. These two exceptionally-qualified candidates have strived to distinguish themselves as most deserving of your vote.
In District 2, incumbent Ald. Bridget Maniaci is defending her City Council seat against University of Wisconsin student Sam Stevenson. Maniaci’s first term was marked by a fight for the Edgewater Hotel, as well as the introduction of legislation to push back the date landlords can show apartments.
Stevenson has distinguished himself as a strong progressive candidate with a nuanced understanding of issues facing his district, as well as a much needed ability to connect with his constituents and neighborhood associations.
With Ald. Bryon Eagon vacating his seat in District 8, a lively race has emerged to represent the student voice as well.
State-Langdon Neighborhood Association President Scott Resnick has come out strong on economic and business issues as the founder of a local technology company. He has also displayed a sound understanding of city politics with a number of detailed student-oriented policy positions.
Also contending for the District 8 seat is current UW student Kyle Szarzynski, a rigid progressive candidate whose platform centers on social issues such as poverty and workers’ rights. These stances have garnered him endorsements from many pro-union organizations as well as several area progressive figureheads.
The race for Dane County Executive should be a swift victory for state Rep. Joe Parisi, D-Madison, who is facing conservative Dane County Sup. Eileen Bruskewitz.
Take a couple quick minutes to read up on each of these candidates, then grab a friend and go to the polls to exercise your most fundamental of democratic rights.
