Today's political forecast for the state of Wisconsin: Mostly cloudy, no clearing in sight, an approaching bipartisan front with strong chance for recalls.
The most recent round of recalls that did not swing the state Senate to the Dems did accomplish something very important. That being a conciliatory tone being struck by the bully-in-chief. This could be a good thing if it bears real fruit. Instead I fear it will be more smokescreen prior to an new round of extremist legislation. This time targeting a social agenda. Worse still is that if Walker's charm offensive is successful it will soften his image in the minds of the average voter. That coupled with our notoriously short attention span could be deflating for the Walker recall.
On quite the other hand the two ideas of extremism and conciliation cannot really coexist. If Walker's henchmen in the legislature decide to go for broke ahead of a possible recall (good chance) of the Governor, Walker will either look like the good cop reigning in his nutter counterparts in the legislature, or will appear to have been utterly disingenuous in his efforts to work with Democrats.
One thing for certain is that the pressure created by the recalls that are done and the one to come is working to change behavior. Check out this political cartoon that shows how it is playing out. It's real effect is yet to be determined. I also believe that after all of this has shaken out, the change in behavior is what people like and now see the recalls as a good exercise, which contradicts the Governor's stated hopes that people are sick of elections. Even Rep. Robin Vos' home district paper ran an editorial stating the recalls are a very positive direction for our state's democracy. Vos is among the closest of Walker's henchmen and women.
I'm not saying for second that I believe Walker's efforts are sincere. The man is a ruthless politician who has demonstrated his willingness to go to just about any length to advance the agenda of his party. It will be up to the voters if they want to swallow this swill. If they do it will make the recall more challenging.