Listening sessions should be for more than just Gov’s buddies

Scott Walker tends to be pretty visible as Governor of Wisconsin. His travel schedule regularly takes him to all corners of the state. He is in La Crosse so often our newsroom jokes he should buy a home here. But while Walker is easy to see, he is not easy to talk to. He regularly holds listening sessions across the state, but those sessions are invitation only. And if you are not a Walker donor, or even a Walker supporter, you aren’t getting an invitation. The sessions are only attended by Republicans who are Walker’s biggest cheerleader. It’s pretty easy to listen to people when all they want to do is pat you on the back. No wonder Walker was surprised at the latest poll numbers which show declining confidence in his leadership and the direction of the state. Walker rebutted that the comments he is getting at his listening sessions are overwhelmingly positive. But these sessions should be open to everyone, regardless of political persuasion, if our Governor truly wants to find out how people in the state feel. A Walker spokesman says the listening sessions are closed because “we want this to be a personal conversation between constituents and the governor, and to make attendees feel more comfortable in expressing their opinions.” If Governor Walker wants to hold listening sessions to find out how people feel, he should invite more than just his closest friends.