Yesterday, Democratic Wisconsin State Senator Dave Hansen was reelected over opponent David VanderLeest in the first of nine Wisconsin Senate recall elections. Six Republicans and three Democrats are up for recall elections this summer, following nationwide outrage over Wisconsin Republicans’ eliminating collective bargaining rights for public employees.

Randy Borntrager, Political Director for People For the American Way, released the following statement:

“Dave Hansen’s decisive victory has proven that the people of Wisconsin are eager for a government run by accountable, responsible politicians. Hansen’s strong record of working for the people — not just for wealthy corporate interests — has cut through Republican rhetoric.

“While Hansen’s reelection is something to be celebrated, there is no time to be complacent. Right-wing lawmakers in Wisconsin and throughout the nation are waging a war on working families and the American Dream, taking away basic protections for workers; stripping funding from vital programs like health care and education; and passing laws that keep minorities, students, and the poor from exercising their constitutional right to vote. Hansen’s victory is an important first step, but with eight more recall elections there is much work still to be done to return accountable government to Wisconsin.”

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