A report from the state Government Accountability Board estimates a statewide recall of Governor Walker will likely cost taxpayers more than $9 million. The figure is based on a survey of Wisconsin counties and municipalities, along with the GAB’s cost estimates for conducting a statewide recall election.
The figures do not include the cost of a possible primary election that may be needed if more than one Democrat runs against Governor Walker.
Republican state Representative Robin Vos (R-Rochester), who requested the cost estimates last fall, says the information shows a recall against the governor will have a dramatic impact on local governments at a time when budgets are already tight. Vos says the data proves a recall of the governor is not healthy for the state.
Vos also criticized the GAB for taking several months to collect the information, after his request was filed in October. He says taxpayers “should have known the estimated cost on local governments before a single petition was circulated.”
Recall organizers are expected to turn in their petitions on January 17th.