State Democrats unveil likely doomed agenda

MADISON, Wis. — Democrats in the Wisconsin Legislature say they’re focused on reducing student loan debt and increasing funding for child care, paid leave and schools. But with their lowest numbers in decades, their agenda has little chance of movement unless they can convince Republicans and Gov. Scott Walker to go along.

Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca of Kenosha had promised more unified Democratic messaging this session after Republicans stunned the party by winning record majorities in November. Barca said at a news conference Thursday that Democrats had worked “collaboratively and relentlessly” on the agenda.

Senate Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling of La Crosse says middle-class people are frustrated with a Republican agenda that isn’t working for them. She says a new Wisconsin Democrats website and more listening sessions will keep voters connected.

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