Shilling says Gov. Walker’s call for special session a political ploy

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is calling for a special session in Madison on welfare reform, using the oft repeated line that public assistance should be a trampoline, not a hammock.

Senate minority leader Jennifer Shilling says it’s a political ploy because of Tuesday’s Democrat victories.

“He is scrambling right now after Tuesday’s loss,” Shilling said. “Calling for welfare reform is an easy way to fire up his base.”

Walker toured the state Thursday with Republican leaders to tout the welfare reform package. And, while they they seem to be on the same page, Shilling says things aren’t so rosy in real life.

“Many know that there has been some tensions between the governor and the speaker of the assembly and the senate majority leader over transportation, over budget,” Shilling said. “They’re trying to put on a united face but there have definitely been some strains in their party relations.”

Shilling wouldn’t have a problem with a special session if it focuses on the right issue.

“I think it misses the mark about legislatively what we should be dealing with at this time,” Shilling said of a special session for the welfare reform package. “If it is one dealing with transportation,” Shilling said. “If it is one dealing with rural schools and addressing cuts that have been made in the budget to our rural schools.

“There are numerous issues that we could be dealing with in special session that would have that urgency.”