Governor Jim Doyle signs legislation into law that’s gotten a lot of attention as of late — whether Wisconsin public schools should continue using Native American mascots, team names and logos.

Doyle had recently said, “I think Native American people legitimately have a beef, at times, with what mascots are and how they’re depicted.” But Doyle was quick to add that not all mascots are discriminatory, although some do perpetuate Indian stereotypes. [Read more...]

An earthquake rumbled across Wisconsin’s political landscape on Wednesday, as the longest serving member of the state’s congressional delegation announced he’ll not seek reelection in November. “There’s a time to stay, and a time to go. And this is my time to go,” said Representative Dave Obey, the Wausau Democrat first elected to represent the state’s sprawling 7th Congressional District in 1969. “Frankly I hate to do it. There is so much that needs to be done. But even more frankly, I am bone tired.” The 71 year-old Obey, who chairs the powerful House Appropriations Committee and who assumed a high profile as the House voted on health care reform, made the announcement at a Washington press conference with family members by his side. [Read more...]