I believe in government “for the people and by the people.” Voters not only choose their representatives, they have the right to know what decision those representatives make, who has input and influence on them when they are making those decisions, and what effect those decisions have on the people of the District. Representatives should have regular contact with their constituents so they know what the people of their district want regarding pending legislation. And they should always be available to explain their votes on various matters.
Wisconsin Eye, which broadcasts assembly sessions and committee meetings both on cable and on the web, is a great tool allowing citizens to follow the actions of their elected officials. But these broadcasts would be meaningless unless the legislators are willing to have honest open debate on the floor in pubic. It is meaningless unless the elected officials are willing to explain how they voted and why. Government meetings should be open and accessible to people. Open meeting laws and open records laws continue to be invaluable in allowing press and public oversight to legislative activity.
Having worked in a legislative office, I realize the value of promptly returned phone calls, regular newsletters and web sites that allow the legislator to keep people informed and to receive feed back. The 81st District is an area which allows a legislator to interact regularly with people in both formal and informal events. I will make myself available at those events and at additional listening sessions to respond to our community’s concerns and issues, and to discuss my legislative action.
