Kanavas and Chvala (File photo)
Two former state senators are working on putting together a TV program.
The dynamic duo — one Republican and one Democrat — get together to discuss … what else? Politics. “Wouldn’t it be good to have people on both sides so that Ted can call me when I’m making an outlandish statement; I can call him.” Former Senate Majority Leader Chuck Chvala believes people want to hear all points of view — with a touch of humor.
Eric Giordano, Ph.D., Director of Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service in Wausau, wonders about their target demographic. He says the traditional debate-style political show appeals to the older folks, but Giordano would like to see a program for another type of audience. “You know, I would like to see personally … them try to appeal to a younger demographic,” he adds, “In order to do that they’re going to have to be very adept at using humor” and other methods.
Chvala and Republican Ted Kanavas recently demonstrated their shtick in Madison.
Giordano says there’s no better time than now to take a risk on such a show, considering the high level of interest in politics in Wisconsin. President and CEO of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Foundation John Laabs agrees.
Laabs says, “It promises to provide a good balance of opinions on important issues at a time when Wisconsin appears to a deeply divided state politically.”
Chvala jokes that viewers will get both good looks and smarts. “What a good combination. With Ted it’s great looks, bad policy; and Chuck … bad looks, great policy.”
The project is still in the very beginning stages. Chvala and Kanavas are aiming toward the Madison and Wausau markets to gauge the level of interest.
Kanavas served in the state Senate from 2001-2011. Chvala was elected to the state Assembly in 1983, and then he served in the Senate from 1985 until his indictment in 2005. Chvala spent nine months in Dane County Jail and two years of probation for his part in the Capitol corruption scandal a decade ago.
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report 2:00