The governor says the projected cost of a recall election should have Wisconsinites questioning the need for one.
A survey released by the Government Accountability Board last week estimates a statewide recall election targeting Governor Scott Walker and Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch will cost taxpayers more than $9 million. Governor Walker says “it’s one more reason why taxpayers should question why we need a recall now” and it’s something “people signing the petitions need to ask themselves.”
Walker says most of the expenses will fall on county and municipal governments, on top of the $2 million costs many had to absorb over the summer with recall elections in the state Senate.
The GAB survey only projects the cost of a general recall election, but notes its estimate could increase significantly if a Democratic primary is needed.
Recall organizers have acknowledged the cost estimate, with Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Mike Tate saying “the $9 million cost of a statewide recall election is great, but the cost of doing nothing is far greater. This undertaking is the biggest investment in the future of our state and families we can make.”
Tate says “no matter how Scott Walker and his Republican Party try to spin it, the people of Wisconsin called for this election. There is no price tag on democracy.”
Recall organizers are expected to turn in petitions against the governor and lieutenant governor next week.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (:57)
