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Keep the Purse Strings Tight: Vote Yes on Wisconsin’s Constitutional Amendments

 

Wisconsin, it’s time to have a little chat about who’s holding the checkbook. In a state where we pride ourselves on common sense, it’s baffling that we even need to vote on something as obvious as keeping the Legislature in charge of the money. But here we are, thanks to some overreach from the governor’s office. So let’s make this simple: on Tuesday, head to the polls and vote “Yes” on these constitutional amendments. Remind our leaders that the rule of law isn’t just a suggestion—it’s mandatory.

First up, Question 1. This amendment is about making it crystal clear that the Legislature—and only the Legislature—has the power to decide where our hard-earned tax dollars go. Governor Evers, bless his heart, seemed to forget this little detail when he decided to play Santa with COVID relief funds, handing out money like it was his personal piggy bank. Let’s be clear: the power of the purse belongs to the people’s representatives, not to one man sitting in the Governor’s mansion. We’re not talking about a minor procedural tweak here; we’re talking about preventing a full-on executive shopping spree with taxpayer dollars.

Then there’s Question 2. This one’s for when the feds send us some cash, and the Governor decides he’s the best one to spend it. Spoiler alert: he’s not. This amendment makes sure that any federal funds accepted on behalf of the state can’t be allocated without the Legislature’s stamp of approval. Think of it as a spending chaperone—because frankly, we’ve seen what happens when there isn’t one. The governor might think he knows best, but we’ve all seen what happens when one person calls all the shots—it’s rarely in the people’s best interest.

Let’s cut through the noise. Some folks are saying these amendments will slow things down, create gridlock, or make it harder to get things done. But let’s be real: a little bit of friction is a good thing when it comes to spending billions of taxpayer dollars. We don’t need a governor who acts like a one-man ATM. We need a system that demands accountability and insists on doing things the right way, even if it takes a little longer.

The truth is, these amendments aren’t asking for anything radical. They’re asking for something that should be obvious to anyone with a modicum of respect for how our government is supposed to function: checks and balances. The Legislature is there to represent us, to be our voice, and to decide how our money is spent. When that power is bypassed, it’s not just an insult to the institution—it’s an insult to every Wisconsin taxpayer who believes in fair governance.

So, Wisconsin, when you head to the polls on Tuesday, remember this: a “Yes” vote on these amendments is a vote to keep any governor in check and the power where it belongs—with the people’s elected representatives. It’s a vote to remind those in power that they work for us, not the other way around. Don’t let anyone pull a fast one with your tax dollars. Vote “Yes” on both amendments and let’s keep our state government running the way it’s supposed to—accountable, balanced, and in line with the Constitution.