That is the question Michael Basford, the Chair of the Dane County Democratic Party is asking. I have a little different question.
Will the District Attorney finally take campaign finance and elections issues seriously and pursue these complaints? We haven’t had a DA in the last 15 or more years that has . . . wait, have we ever had a DA who has? I’m thinking, who was before Brian Blanchard, or maybe Brian Blanchard in the beginning? Hmmmm . . . . I’m glad the Dems have stepped in and taken on the role that Progressive Dane used to play . . . maybe since the DA is “their guy” it will finally make a difference!
Last week Michael Basford, chair of the Democratic Party of Dane County, filed a complaint with the Dane County District Attorney against City of Madison District 14 Alderman Tim Bruer for violations of campaign finance laws under Wisconsin State Statutes. Over the weekend, Alderman Bruer’s campaign erected several large signs for his campaign throughout the district which violate both Wisconsin State Statutes and Madison General Ordinances. These large signs:
– Are 32 square feet each – nearly 3 times the allowable size according to Madison General Ordinances 31.044(1)(e)
– Are missing identification of who authorized and paid for the signs as required by Wisconsin State Statutes 11.30(2)(b)
This issue will be referred to the Dane County District Attorney and City of Madison Zoning Department. DPDC Chair Michael Basford said the following about these latest violations: “At the beginning of each term, City of Madison Alders swear in their oaths to support the law. In his reelection bid, Alderman Bruer has repeatedly violated it, first with his campaign financing and now with his illegal signs. After nearly 30 years in office, Tim Bruer cannot credibly claim ignorance of the law. His violations are of laws all other candidates seem to not have trouble following. When we pointed out his campaign finance violations last week, Alderman Bruer accused me of conducting a “witch hunt” (Wisconsin State Journal, 29-2013). There is an easy way Alderman Bruer can get us to stop highlighting his violations: He can stop breaking the law.
And a better remedy to Alderman Bruer’s constant scandals is to elect John Strasser tomorrow. John has run a clean campaign and promises to focus on the needs of District 14 while following laws that we expect all of our leaders to follow.”
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Authorized and paid for by the Democratic Party of Dane County – Michael Basford, Chair
I’m not being critical of the Dems, thrilled they stepped up. Wondering what the District Attorney will do, if anything. My prediction, issues a statement about how underpaid and overworked they are and how this is just not a priority . . . its the M.O.
