Monday will likely be a long night at the state Capitol, as lawmakers debate, protesters chant and Republicans aim to take power away from incoming Democrats.
“The No. 1 priority for us is to make sure that we restore the balance of powers between the two co-equal branches of government. We want to ensure that the new administration doesn’t try to work around the legislature and rule from the east wing,” Assembly Speaker Robin Vos told reporters Monday afternoon.
The fourth floor of the state Capitol was filled with people waiting to testify Monday in front of the state’s budget committee, Joint Committee on Finance. The hearing room and several overflow rooms filled up quickly.
At least two protesters were removed from that public hearing by Capitol police, under the orders of committee co-chair Rep. John Nygren. Outside the room, they chanted “respect our votes” and banged on the doors.
“Any disruptions and I have the ability to clear the room,” Nygren said.
Lawmakers are scheduled to take up six proposals as part of a lame-duck session. The GOP bills would take away powers from Democratic Gov.-elect Tony Evers and Attorney General-elect Josh Kaul before they take office.
“I’m concerned. I think that Gov.-elect Evers is going to bring a liberal agenda to Wisconsin,” Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald told reporters.
Democratic Rep. Chris Taylor told lawmakers during the hearing, “This is unprecedented, what is happening here today.”
“Ever in the history of the state of Wisconsin, has there been an extraordinary session convened to take away the powers of a newly elected governor and a newly elected attorney general?” Taylor asked.
