voting rights issues are BOILING in WI

The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has upended my musings about this week's newsletter. The news from the conflict has been overwhelming and awful. Seen as an almost inevitable outgrowth of 75 years of intermittent conflict between the irreconcilable views of two groups fighting for a small part of the world, it may seem both consequential and simply in keeping with the long history of the region. Seen in the context of recent events worldwide, however, it may signify that we are witnessing dramatic changes in what had looked like a fairly stable world order, one ultimately dominated by America's vision and our might.

That's David Leonhardt's thesis in yesterday's column The Global Context of the Hamas-Israel War. He writes that "the world is in the midst of a transition to a new order that experts describe with the word multipolar. The United States is no longer the dominant power it once was, and no replacement has emerged. As a result, political leaders in many places feel emboldened to assert their own interests, believing the benefits of aggressive action may outweigh the costs. These leaders believe that they have more sway over their own region than the U.S. does." Leonhardt elaborates on this thesis clearly and concisely. Read the whole thing. I've gifted it to bypass the paywall.

Wisconsin is of course thick into its own internecine election wars. What follows is a brief summary of the action to date.

As we are all now well aware, Boss Vos has been threatening to impeach Justice Protasiewicz and set up a secret panel of former Wisconsin Supreme Court (SCOWIS) justices to advise him on the subject.
Two weeks ago, Speaker Vos the Boss suddenly introduced a bill to completely restructure the process of redistricting our legislative election maps, based on the Iowa Model, or so he claimed. (See the bill.) Then the Iowa State Auditor and other Iowa pols called the claim a lie, only in more polite language.
This past Sunday, Vos the Boss published an editorial in the Journal Sentinel blaming Democrats for opposing his bill — AB 415 — to change the way our election maps are drawn. In it, he repeats the lie.
And now, Senate President Chris Kapenga says the senate does not have enough votes to pass the legislation. Meanwhile, Kapenga is urging Vos to impeach Elections Administrator Meagan Wolfe. The senate claims to have fired her already, but that action has of course resulted in a lawsuit.
Now STOP THE PRESSES: Former SCOWIS justice David Prosser has just advised the MAGA GOP in the Assembly that it would be ill-advised for the body to go forward with impeachment. In his letter to Vos on October 6, he wrote: "To sum up my views, there should be no effort to impeach Justice Protasiewicz on anything we know now. Impeachment is so serious, severe, and rare that it should not be considered unless the subject has committed a crime, or the subject has committed indisputable ‘corrupt conduct’ while ‘in office."
And this just in: the Assembly Bill to change the process of drawing election maps, passed by the Assembly a few weeks ago, has now be submitted to the Senate.

So that's where the legislature stands: Vos threatens impeachment and then passes a bill that he erroneously claims is just like the Iowa model. Senate President Fitzgerald says he just doesn't have the votes to pass the bill (which seems not to have been the case) but wants Vos to impeach Meagan Wolfe (Wisconsin Elections Administrator) instead. Former Justice Prosser tells Vos to forget about impeaching Protasiewiz. Now Vos has become silent on the subject. Stay tuned for further legislative games.

While the state legislature was busy boxing itself into corners, the work of the Wisconsin Supreme Court went on. There have been quite a few important developments you should know about.

On Friday, October 6, Justice Protosiewicz released her opinion declining the motion that she recuse herself from the redistricting case. (See her recusal opinion.)
On October 9, the Wisconsin Supreme Court agreed to hear part of the Clarke case challenging the current maps as unconstitutional. (See the Court's ruling.)
SCOWIS also declined to hear the case known as Wright. (See the court's order.)The litigants in that case are submitting a motion to be included in the Clarke case as an Intervenor (i.e. as a party having "a clearly determinable interest in the outcome of the action." See Thomson Reuters Practical Law.)

The issues here are complicated but we can tease out a few salient ones. The Clarke petition raised five issues:

Whether the state legislative redistricting plans proposed by the legislature and imposed by this Court in Johnson v. Wisconsin Elections Commission are extreme partisan gerrymanders that violate Article I, Section I, of the Wisconsin Constitution's guarantee of equal protection under law; and whether this cause of action is justiciable in Wisconsin courts.
Whether the state legislative redistricting plans proposed by the legislature and imposed by this Court in Johnson III are extreme partisan gerrymanders that retaliate against voters based on their viewpoint and exercise of free speech and abridge the ability of voters with disfavored political views to associate with others to advance their political beliefs in violation of Article I, Sections 3 and 4 of the Wisconsin Constitution; and whether this cause of action is justiciable in Wisconsin courts.
Whether the state legislative redistricting plans proposed by the legislature and imposed by this Court in Johnson III are extreme partisan gerrymanders that fail to adhere to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality and virtue and fundamental principles in violation of Article I, Section 22 of the Wisconsin Constitution; and whether this cause of action is justiciable in Wisconsin courts.
Whether the state legislative redistricting plans proposed by the legislature and imposed by this Court in Johnson III violate the requirement of Article IV, Sections 4 and 5 of the Wisconsin Constitution that legislators be elected from districts consisting of "contiguous territory."
Whether the state legislative redistricting plans proposed by the legislature and imposed by this Court in Johnson III violate the separation-of-powers principle inherent in the Constitution's division of legislative, executive, and judicial powers by usurping the Governor's core constitutional power to veto legislation and the Legislature's core constitutional power to override such a veto.

SCOWIS declined to hear issues 1, 2 and 3 but agreed to hear issues 4 and 5. In its rationale for declining to take up the first three issues, the majority wrote that although those "raise important and unresolved questions of statewide significance, the need for extensive fact-finding (if not a full-scale trial) counsels against addressing them at this time."

The Court then asks that the parties and any intervenors write briefs addressing four questions. (1) Whether the current maps violate the contiguity requirements in the Constitution. (2) Whether the Court's adoption of the existing state legislative maps violated the Wisconsin Constitution's separation of powers. (3) If the existing maps in fact violate the contiguity requirement or violate the separation of powers, what standards the Court should use to develop a remedy for the violations. (5) If the existing maps are found to violate the Constitution, what fact-finding will be necessary and what process the Court should use to resolve issues of fact.

One interpretation of the SCOWIS order dismissing the partisan gerrymandering issues sees the decision as conserving precious time so that if warranted new maps that do not violate the contiguity requirement or the separation of powers can be in place in time for the 2024 elections. That interpretation is bolstered by the aggressive schedule the Court has set: October 10 for Motions to Intervene; October 12 for initial briefs; October 30 for responses to initial briefs; November 8 for Amicus briefs; and November 21 for Oral Arguments. Moreover, the Court's opinion noted that "a decision on Issues 4 and 5 set forth in their petition 'could render it unnecessary' to decide Issues 1-3."

No doubt that there will be lots of news emanating both from actions at the Wisconsin Supreme Court and from the Legislature. We'll keep on it!

Although Wisconsin has no election in the offing — a welcome respite in a state that routinely has four or more of them every year — there's plenty to do to keep your hand in vital electoral matters elsewhere. So this week's Action Items are managed by some powerfully effective national groups. I hope you sign up with them.

VOTE FORWARD volunteer opportunities:

Help Democrats Win in Virginia: To deny Governor Glenn Youngkin a statewide Republican trifecta, Democrats need to hold their majority in the Virginia State Senate or win a majority in the House of Delegates this November. Sign up to write Vote Forward letters to potential voters, join a national phone bank, or if you’re in or near Virginia, join other volunteers to knock on doors and help voters make a plan to vote! Take action in VA.
Protect Abortion Access in Ohio: In August, organizers helped lay the groundwork necessary for abortion access to pass via ballot measure in November. Now it’s time to see it through. Every Vote Forward letterwritten, phone call made, door knocked, and donation contributed between now and Election Day to remind Ohio voters to vote Yes on Issue 1 gets Ohioans a step closer to protecting reproductive freedom statewide.
National Phone Bank to Ohio Voters: No matter where you’re located, join our national phone bank on Tuesday, October 17 at 6pm ET! We’re calling Ohioans to remind them to vote YES on Issue 1 to protect reproductive freedom. If you’ve never phone banked before, don’t worry, there will be a quick training beforehand to help you get started. Sign up today.

ACTIVATE AMERICA volunteer opportunities:

Protect Abortion Rights in Ohio: This November, Ohio voters will be heading to the polls to vote on an amendment that would enshrine abortion protections in their constitution. We know a majority of Ohioans support protecting abortion rights with an amendment. We can help them get the info they need to make their voices heard! Let's Get Out The Vote! Sign up for postcard lists today to ensure Democratic voters have the info they need to vote. Please write postcards now and mail them starting October 4 through October 28 at the latest.
Write Postcards to Voters in CA, NY, AZ, and OH!: Join Third Act and Activate America to write postcards to voters and help safeguard our democracy! We will win elections in Fall 2023, and build voter enthusiasm and turnout to elect progressives and climate champions in 2024. Sign up. On the sign-up page, click on "Complete Your Registration Here," and fill out the order form to let us know how many names and addresses you want us to send to you.

EVENTS

Tuesday, October 10

What is Happening with DEI in Our Schools, 5:00- 6:30pm
Turner Hall, 1040 Vel R. Phillips Ave, Milwaukee and online
For students, teachers, families, and folks who care about equity in our community. DEI efforts are under attack in our schools. Long-term systemic racism must be countered by long-term systemic anti-racism that lifts up and collaborates with marginalized people. Societies are stronger, richer and more resilient when they respect, value and learn from diverse cultures, knowledge, experiences, and ideas. Panelists: + Elisabeth Lambert, Wisconsin Education Law & Policy Hub + Diannia Merriett, Parents Advocating for Greendale Equity + Lashawnda Holland, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility - Wauwatosa School District + Alyson Weiss, Superintendent, Glendale River Hills + Nathan Russell, Founder, Suburbs for Equality. Moderator: Emilio De Torre, Milwaukee Turners. Doors open at 4:30 PM. Broadcast begins at 5 PM in the Palm Garden, on the first floor of Turner Hall. For in-person or for virtual attendance, please sign up.

Wednesday, October 11

Community Advocates: Speaker Nancy Pelosi Interview, 7:00pm CDT
Virtual
We welcome the Speaker Emerita of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi. She has represented California in Congress since 1987. During her terms as Speaker she was second in line of succession to the presidency. She is an historic figure and a trailblazer on countless fronts--too many to recount. She will discuss America's Challenges with Los Angeles Times' Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, Patt Morrison. Register for the program.

Saturday, October 14

Stand for Peace, 12:00 - 1:00pm
King and North Streets
Stand for Peace demonstrates for peace at a different intersection in Milwaukee County every Saturday.

Monday, October 16

Milwaukee PD District Seven: 2023 Crime & Safety Meeting, 5:00- 6:30pm
Wellpoint, 8901 Capitol Dr, Milwaukee
District 7's Crime & Safety Meetings are always held on the 3^rd Monday of every month. More information.

Dem Party of Milwaukee County Monthly Meeting, 6:00pm
J&B's Bar and Grill, 5230 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee
Join us for our regularly scheduled monthly meeting, where we discuss party business and hear from Democratic candidates. Food will be provided! Sign up.

Tuesday, October 17

League of Women Voters Lunch & Learn, 12:00pm
Zoom
Invite Your Friends and LWV Members to Join Our Lunch and Learn. We listen, reflect, and follow the lead of community changemakers on important issues impacting our lives. We meet virtually at noon on the third Tuesday of every month. We encourage you to sign up and save this monthly link. Passcode: league. Text Pat McFarland with your suggestions and questions at 414-630-1978.

Wednesday, October 18

October Dem Party of Oz County Meeting, 7:00 - 8:00pm
130 Wisconsin Ave, Grafton
Join us at our Grafton Office as we gather to hear speakers and catch up on the local and state politics influencing Ozaukee County – while spending time with like-minded people. All interested people are encouraged to attend.

Thursday, October 19

Out of Sight: The Black Middle-Class in Milwaukee, 4:00 - 5:30pm
4th Floor Conference Center, Golda Meir Library, 2311 E. Hartford Ave., Milwaukee and Virtual
Ermitte Saint Jacques, Assistant Professor, UWM Department of African and African Diaspora Studies and Robert Smith, Harry G. John Professor, Marquette University Department of History, will discuss middle-class African American experience in Milwaukee. This collaborative project challenges and complicates existing narratives about Black Milwaukee that are mired in narrow assertions primarily focused on poverty, residential segregation, criminalization, and educational achievement gaps. This 2023 Morris Fromkin Memorial Lecture, dedicated to social justice, will take place both in-person and virtually. Register here.

WAVE Action, 12:00 -12:30pm
Virtual
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has proposed a new rule that could drastically reduce the number of gun sales that take place without a background check. This could be a massive step forward in keeping guns out of the hands of people who, by law, are prohibited from owning them. Now, the ATF is accepting comments on this proposed rule. Sign up.

WAVE Action, 6:00 -6:30pm
Virtual
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has proposed a new rule that could drastically reduce the number of gun sales that take place without a background check. This could be a massive step forward in keeping guns out of the hands of people who, by law, are prohibited from owning them. Now, the ATF is accepting comments on this proposed rule. Sign up.

Friday, October 20

Redistricting, Elections, & Litigation, 9:30am
Knickerbocker Hotel, 1028 E Juneau St, Milwaukee
A meeting to discuss and update Wisconsin politics sponsored by the League of Progressive Seniors. Panel Members: Deborah Patel (Co-lead, North Shore Fair Maps); Deb Andraca (23^rd Assembly District Representative); and an Attorney from Law Forward. We look forward to meeting with you to enjoy the company and refreshments as we learn about this important topic. For questions, contact Attorney Jackie Boynton at 414-378-4224. Let LPS know you plan to attend. OR let them know you're interested but cannot attend.

The Women's Convention 2023, 3:00pm - October 22 at 1:00pm
Baird Center, 400 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee
We’re at an inflection point in our country. What we do in the next five years will impact the next five decades. If we are going to protect our personal rights, our communities, and democracy itself, we need to build the biggest movement possible. We need to consolidate women and allies around shared values, experience, and culture to build a nation that works for all of us. The 2023 Women’s Convention will provide a space for you to rejuvenate and find connection and support. Whether you are brand new to social change work or a veteran activist, this space is built for you. You will gain tools, make connections, and experience the feminist future we want to live in. See more information and purchase tickets. (The posting is long, but well worth the scrolling to find ticket prices for seniors.)

The Movement for Black Lives has generously offered to sponsor a limited number of attendees for the Women’s Convention in Milwaukee. Be one of the first 200 people to register for the convention today using promo code MOVEMENT at checkout and the Movement for Black Lives will cover the cost of your ticket. Reserve Your Spot Today.

Saturday, October 21

Stand for Peace, 12:00 - 1:00pm
Capitol and Oakland
Special Stand for Peace in solidarity with the Nov 1, 2023, UN Vote to End Blockade on Cuba and to get an update on the status of Julian Assange. Stand for Peace demonstrates for peace at a different intersection in Milwaukee County every Saturday.

Grassroots Glendale Defend Justice Canvass, 12:00 - 3:00 & 3:00 - 6:00pm
6563 N Crestwood Dr, Glendale
WE NEED YOUR HELP! There is a Republican threat to impeach newly-elected Janet Protasiewicz. This is a desperate, unconstitutional, unprecedented, and obscene power grab to erase the votes of a million Wisconsinites and lock in their gerrymandered maps, the near-total abortion ban, and the plot to overturn the 2024 presidential election. We must make absolutely clear to Robin Vos and Republicans in the Wisconsin State Legislature that this attempt to nullify the last election is absolutely unacceptable. Join us to mobilize voters to call their Representatives! Sign up.

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, October 28

Stand for Peace, 12:00 - 1:00pm
27^th and Oklahoma Streets
Stand for Peace demonstrates for peace at a different intersection in Milwaukee County every Saturday.

Thursday, November 2

Day of the Deeds Fundraiser for Issy Ramón, TBD
1407 S 1st Street, Milwaukee
Fundraiser for Issy Ramón, Milwaukee County's Register of Deeds since he was appointed to the position in May 2019. In his time in office, he has implemented a number of reforms, both to systems for accounting and to staff interactions with customers. Now he's running for office and seeks your support. Please donate.

Saturday, November 4

Fox Point/Bayside Dems One Year to Win Canvass, 9:00am - 12:00pm & 12:00 - 3:00pm
Sign up for details
Come join us as we talk to voters in Fox Point one year ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election! Sign up.

Sunday, November 5

Grassroots Glendale Defend Justice Canvass, 3:00 - 6:00pm
6563 N Crestwood Dr, Glendale
WE NEED YOUR HELP! There is a Republican threat to impeach newly-elected Janet Protasiewicz. This is a desperate, unconstitutional, unprecedented, and obscene power grab to erase the votes of a million Wisconsinites and lock in their gerrymandered maps, the near-total abortion ban, and the plot to overturn the 2024 presidential election. We must make absolutely clear to Robin Vos and Republicans in the Wisconsin State Legislature that this attempt to nullify the last election is absolutely unacceptable. Join us to mobilize voters to call their Representatives! Sign up.

Whitefish Bay/Shorewood Deep Canvassing, 4:00 - 6:00pm
4845 Newhall Street, Whitefish Bay
Come join us in Whitefish Bay as we knock doors and talk to voters about the issues that matter most to them! Sign up.

Sunday, November 12

Can Democrats Win the Messaging War in 2024? 7:00 - 8:30pm
Virtual
Grassroots North Shore presents an online discussion of messaging tactics and challenges in the 2024 elections, both national and statewide. Featured speakers David Pepper (Saving Democracy), Melissa Agard (WI Senate Majority Leader), and Mandela Barnes (Power to the Polls), offer knowledgeable, insider views of how to win the all-important state and national elections in 2024.Sign up.

David Pepper will have pre-record his interview with Grassroots North Shore Co-Chair Debbie Patel. You can learn more about him here. Please send questions for him for Debbie to use when she interviews him.

Tuesday, November 14

Fact or Fiction: Dispelling Abortion Care Myths, 6:30pm
Hybrid Event or Zoom
Forum on Reproductive Rights sponsored by the League of Women Voters Milwaukee County. Join us for a discussion with experts on the medical and legal aspects of reproductive health care. In this first in a series of forums, we will examine some of the facts and myths around this complicated, and often contentious, topic in order to work toward effective public policy. More details coming in next week’s Update. Details and sign up TBA.