With multiple recall races likely on their way in Wisconsin, Assembly representatives passed a joint resolution Tuesday that could change the state constitution by redefining the grounds for a recall election.
The measure, which would prevent recalls unless officials are charged with legal wrongdoing in office, passed the Assembly along party lines following fierce partisan debate.
While Democrats railed against what they called an “offensive” and “anti-democratic” resolution, Republicans strongly defended “fixing” the current recall process, which they said constituents statewide considered problematic.
“We are trying to bring a sense of stability to the system,” said Rep. Paul Farrow, R-Pewaukee, referencing a portion of the resolution that creates a code of ethics spelling out the circumstances under which an official can be recalled.
“To be able to be thrown out at any moment at any time … isn’t the will of the people,” Farrow said. “It’s the will of a small group of individuals who are very loud.”
Representatives on the left, like Madison’s Mark Pocan, considered the resolution “sour grapes,” contending that Republicans sought to protect themselves in the wake of recent recalls statewide. Others said the amendment “clouded” a right guaranteed by the state constitution.
“Let’s not fear the will of the people,” said Rep. Kelda Roys, D-Madison.
Although the joint resolution passed in the Assembly and now moves to the state Senate, it must also pass in the next consecutive Assembly and Senate term, and then survive a statewide referendum.
