http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/assembly-wi-robin-vos-s450.jpgSenator Smith writes about how the local elections last week paint a different picture about Wisconsin’s finances and the inaction by Republicans to invest in our local governments.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/firefighters-s5.jpgGovernor goes to Pittsville to sign bill designed to combat the dangerous rise in knock-off lighters.

Wisconsin ranks 34th in the nation over the last five years on private-sector job growth. We deserve more.

MADISON – Bureau of Labor Statistics' quarterly jobs figures show that Wisconsin continues to lag behind the nation in jobs. Wisconsin ranks 34th in the nation over the last five years on private-sector job growth. The people of Wisconsin have suffered under 20 consecutive quarters – or five full years – of below-average job growth.

“Wisconsin ought to be a top-ten economy but Republicans have been far more focused on rigging our political system to keep themselves in power rather than growing jobs," said Assembly Democratic Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha). “Republican inaction on jobs has prevented Wisconsin from benefiting from national economic growth that is helping workers and businesses in many states get ahead."

Assembly Democrats promise to push an aggressive agenda to grow jobs, support a robust middle class, and kick-start new businesses. They renewed their call for a summit to grow Wisconsin jobs, reach the goal of making Wisconsin a top-ten state in jobs, and address the state’s dead last ranking in start-ups.

http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/eisenhower-bridge-valor-s460.pngBills signed to designate the USH 63 bridge that crosses the Mississippi River in Pierce County the “Eisenhower Bridge of Valor” and create the “Deputy Kaitie Leising Memorial Highway”.