Today the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ran a fact-checking article by PolitiFact that examines the validity of an accusation of attack and vandalism made by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce against unidentified "protestors." For those not familiar with them, the WMC is a lobbying group for the state's conservative business people and manufacturers, and has contributed heavily to Governor Walker, Justice Prosser, and virtually every Republican serving in the State Legislature. According to their website, they believe that rhetorical questions posed to potential members is the most effective mode of communicating their mission:
"Who fights for your right to run a profitable business? Who lobbies for lower taxes and fewer government mandates? Who is the largest, most effective business group in the state?"This past weekend, someone who does not appear to appreciate the recent purchase of the Wisconsin Governor and Legislature by the businesses represented by the WMC had a little fun at the WMC headquarters. WMC sent out a press release on Monday June 13th under the headline "Pro-Tax budget Protesters Vandalize WMC HQ." The release went on the detail the "vandalism" and "attack" as follows:
"State budget protesters attacked the headquarters of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce over the weekend with pro-tax-hike graffiti on the sidewalk, and stenciled images of fists and Governor Scott Walker smeared on the building and statue."The WMC also indignantly posted photos of the "vandalism attack" - which clearly show that the "graffiti" on the sidewalk was, in fact, done in sidewalk chalk. You know, the stuff that washes off with a hose or rain. And the solidarity fists on the outdoor metal sculpture in front of the WMC building (love them!) were actually just made out of mud. You know, the stuff that washes off with a hose or rain.
The WMC reported the "criminal act" to the Madison Police Department, who were helpful enough to come out and investigate the "crime scene." The MJ-S/PolitiFact article quotes the Madison Police Department spokesman:
"'There’s no permanent damage,' said department spokesman Howard Payne.The officer who investigated noted that the chalk and stencil material 'was flaking off when she touched it,' Payne said."
Apparently, the WMC members did not have enough brain power among them to have figured these things out without the assistance of Madison's finest.
Well, I say three cheers for the police officer who cracked the case and determined that merely touching the "vandalism" was sufficient to remove it! Perhaps she also suggested a hose.
