Prove it.

@John Wilson

Tax payer money is not used for Walker's defense fund. In addition, records show that no money is being used from the defense fund any longer.

In other words, Walker has not needed any legal representation, according to the latest records.

Finally, the GAB strongly recommends that all politicians have legal representation any time employees are being investigated. Apparently no more former employees are being investigated.

Luke -

"@John Wilson Tax payer money is not used for Walker's defense fund. In addition, records show that no money is being used from the defense fund any longer.

Show me some data to support this...

@ John Wilson

Behold.

http://m.jsonline.com/newswatch/173558891.htm

Luke -

Thanks... I think.

I cannot access JS unless I subscribe to their service, which I will not!
I get 20 views free per month without a subscription, and my 20 are used up for November.

I'll try and find something else... I assume this is their quarterly IRS filing for September.

Further, just because the campaign is not spending money from the Defense Fund doesn’t actually mean no money is being spent…

John,
If you search for it through google, it will allow you to click the link and view it anyhow.

In any case, the article says that there is less than 5k in the defense fund, and that no payments have been made to attorneys for three months prior to last month.

Also, if Walker needed more money I would have been asked to contribute more (which I haven't).

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Hoffa is still waiting on your proof showing that taxpayer monies are being used by Walker to fund his criminal defense efforts.

And yet, all Hoffa hears from Wilson is crickets...

Luke –

According to IRS filings on the “Defense Fund” of Walker, all of these expenses were dispersed, prior to the June 30, 2nd quarter filing of this year. The JS states this happened in September, which would have been the 3rd quarter.

100,000 initial investment
60,000 added investment
160,000 total investment

115,000 Chicago law firm – John Gallo
29,200 Steinle's firm
1,300 Madison law firm - Lind Weininger
10,000 APCO Worldwide – PR Firm
155,500 total spent [April 1 – June 30, 2012]

The balance on the Defense Fund was 4,500 on June 30, 2012.

This shows that Walker spent 155,500 from his Defense Fund by June 30, 2012, and nothing since!

Thus, by your theory, because he hasn't spent any money from this account since June 30, 2012, he is what? I know you have heard of a lump sum retainer?

Sorry, this proves only that the JS reporter, Rice, got it wrong... only that and nothing more...

Please check out the link I provided.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/07/17/1110937/-More-Info-on-How-Scott-Walker-is-Spending-His-Legal-Defense-Fund-More

Boffa -

Please provide me with proof of the last digit of Pi.

Also,

Please prove where the white goes when the snow melts.

I know you are grieving over Willard/Lyin’ Ryan’s loss, and you are angry, however, irrationality really doesn't become you...

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Hoffa doesn't have to prove anything, as Hoffa wasn't the one who made an original assertion on this board. You, on the other hand, did when you affirmatively queried "why are the taxpayers being billed for Walker's legal defense...."

Once again, please provide proof that Walker's criminal defense fund is being funded with taxpayer monies or retract your idiotic assertion.

Every digit...
with absolute precision...
including the very last digit of Pi, included here: 22/7

Jay Sykes -

Sorry, not even close...

Pi is an irrational number – irrational like the right wing TAP Walker sycophants posting here – which some folks have calculated beyond 10+ Trillion digits.

@John Wilson...

I was curious: How would you take my non-political, practical, useful, every-day answer deep in your political world.

As to your "where the white goes when the snow melts", I've written my answer this question in the same disappearing ink that is applied to the snow as it falls from the sky. First , . Second, w a , s s,but, . See this e a s , and, q tt , attached link below for the full detailed explanation.

http:// w / r / cr / we / y .org

Jay Sykes -

Got it... Great job!

How true Wayne.

Just listening to him Ed.

Luke ... Walker is still being investigated, the feds just don't want you to know that.

Begs the question. Why do the blue fisters keep accusing the gov with no evidence, 2 years later.

@Bren

Why does the GAB recommend that all politicians that have former employees under investigation get representation?

Bren -

Of equal importance... why are the taxpayers being billed for Walker's legal defense and the law suit against him?

Because he was being sued and that takes money to defend, you dingbat.

Candy -

And it's the taxpayers fault that he is being sued?

If it happens within the course of his employment, yet, the taxpayers who are his employer are responsible. If you had a job you would understand.

Candy –

That’s why we pay Walker a salary, and, provide him with an AG and state legal resources… no need to waste my tax money on $500.00 per hour criminal attorneys from Chicago…

[Tell me again why he needs criminal attorneys?]

I don’t even pay for my Board of Directors legal fees… it is called PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY…

@Bren -

Gov Walker set up a criminal defense fund because he knew that Democrats would stop at nothing to attempt to charge him during the recall effort if his guard was down - even if it was little more than a railroad job trumped up charge.

By setting up the defense fund and using money from it to retain top level attorneys, it sent the message to Democrats that they had better not try anything hanky-panky during the recall. If Walker had not done this, it's very possible that we could have seen some BS railroad job trumped up charge made against him during the recall in an attempt to wrongfully discredit him to voters. If you remember, several of the ADA's involved in the case had signed petitions to recall Walker and were active in campaigning against Walker and for Tom Barrett.

It's called politics Bren. The Democrats aren't as squeaky clean players as you appear to believe they are. They are just as, if not even more dirty than the Republicans. After all, what party is it again that is associated with the term "Chicago-style politics?"

Next time Bren, try thinking it through before posting such obvious questions ;-)

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Please provide your source showing that the taxpayers are at all funding any of Walker's criminal defense efforts.

If you were being investigated as a public official, and not being allowed to know exctly what was being looked at, you'd do the same thing.

Nothing "begging' here... Just a stupid question.

"That’s why we pay Walker a salary, and, provide him with an AG and state legal resources… no need to waste my tax money on $500.00 per hour criminal attorneys from Chicago…"

Ummm, the AG and state legal resources ARE tax money. He set up a legal defense fund, with approval, with his own campaign money.

Acording to you, he SHOULD be using state taxpayer resources to defend himself. :)

Boffa –

Even a very incompetent, faux attorney would know that an elected official is not obligated to reveal the source(s) of the money used for his criminal defense fund, except under subpoena.

[Your question is incredibly specious and stupid, even coming from you!]

“Walker has said he is not the target of the investigation, but under state law, only those elected officials who are charged with a crime or under investigation can set up legal defense funds.”

We do know: “Reinforcing that notion are new campaign finance reports showing that, in May, 2012 Walker's campaign directed $100,000 to a legal defense fund used to pay the governor's costly bills for the attorneys representing him in the John Doe probe.”

“In the past six weeks, Walker's campaign has directed a total of $160,000 in campaign funds to his defense fund. Walker's campaign must get donors' permission before sending their money to the defense fund…”

http://fox6now.com/2012/05/14/gov-walkers-legal-defense-fund-questioned/

http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2012/05/scott-walker-john-doe-recall-defense-fund

http://host.madison.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/politiscope/madison-politiscope-at-least-people-contributed-to-walker-legal-defense/article_5370a604-bb20-11e1-8ab4-001a4bcf887a.html

Boffa –

Train-maker Talgo sues Gov. Walker, Wisconsin – 42 Million

And the hits just keep on coming…

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1014292002

Edward Willing -

Perhaps YOU should share your post with Boffa; it only proves that my tax dollars are already going to defend Gov. Walker. How much other money is being bulldozed around the state budget to help?

@Lyin' John Wilson -

You did not provide a source showing that taxpayer monies were being used to fund Walker's criminal defense efforts, and yet you still fail to retract such an idiotic and unsupported assertion.

FYI - Campaign funds are NOT taxpayer funds.

As for Talgo, Walker's involvement in that suit is in his official capacity as Governor of the State of Wisconsin, and not individually, thus it only makes sense that the AG and other state funds are being used to defend against such suits.

Doyle was sued many times in his capacity as Governor as well, and the AG and state funds were used to defend against such suits, and yet, you probably took no issue with that.

You're a hypocrite and a moron John - just admit it already!

Steve, a John Doe investigation is continuing. "Blue fisters" did not initiate it.
Luke, the statute summary actually states: "Wisconsin Statutes permit a state government official who is being investigated for or charged with a violation of campaign finance laws or prohibited election practices to establish a 'legal defense fund' for expenditures supporting or defending the candidate while that person is being investigated for, or charged with, or convicted of a violation of those chapters..." Here's a link to a Daniel Bice article on the subject: http://www.jsonline.com/watchdog/noquarter/walker-sets-up-legaldefense-fund-f64gqrb-142164553.html This is why eyebrows have been raised.

John, the article cited above mentions that taxpayer dollars are not being used. My question, at least for the initial $100,000 funding, regarded donor intent: were these campaign contributions? Would every donor support having their gift used to pay defense lawyers? Now, as you cite, donors are being asked.

Candy, I don't have all the details. But if the investigation involves illegal personal activity of an employee, an employer could potentially be involved in instances of direct/tacit knowledge and participation.

Mr. Hoffa, I believe you are extrapolating. Gov. Walker has not cited your reasons as explanation.

So may we assume, based on the GAB criteria for creating a legal defense fund, that Walker must be involved in the investigation in some way beyond answering questions?

Bren –

The AG and other state legal resources are open for the governor to use for this investigation, now that is my tax dollars at work defending Walker. Walker may use these resources at his discretion or not; perhaps he would prefer to seek outside, private council, where he would have complete control of the work product, et al. Obviously, Walker could use the AG and other state legal resources, only to the point where he would sense some personal vulnerability, and then move the entire defense to the private sector. Moreover, if the AG and other state legal resources are being used to defend Walker, they are not then doing the business my taxes were really meant to go toward, and the time used defending Walker would not be used doing their regular appointed duties.

It is my understanding, from the GAB, that each contributor to the campaign – limited to $10,000 per individual for the Walker recall – whose money is going to be used for the Defense Fund, needs to be contacted and they have to provide a written statement/signature declaring that their contribution may be used for that Defense Fund. There are no real formalities here, as that written confirmation may be an email, fax, or letter. Those are NOT available to the public, and the GAB will NOT investigate that compliance unless you bring Jesus, Mary and Joseph along with you…

The GAB is a rather sloppy organization...

http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2012/05/scott-walker-john-doe-recall-defense-fund

Bren –

“My question, at least for the initial $100,000 funding, regarded donor intent: were these campaign contributions? Would every donor support having their gift used to pay defense lawyers? Now, as you cite, donors are being asked.

Succinctly, Yes & Unclear question…

These were campaign contributions.

You legally - campaign contributor - have to give permission for your funds to be used in the Defense Fund in writing.

The limit is $10,000 to the Defense Fund per contributor.

http://host.madison.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/politiscope/madison-politiscope-at-least-people-contributed-to-walker-legal-defense/article_5370a604-bb20-11e1-8ab4-001a4bcf887a.html

Bren,

Sorry, but you merely linked to an article with an an overview. Any investigation of employees necessarily involves the employer. The GAB recommended that Walker set up the fund because of that. The GAB has never said otherwise, and looking back at all that has happened, it is clear that your hopes have been dashed.

Boffa -

It's long past your bedtime... besides I thought that Edward Willing's post clarified that for you...

Edward Willing

12:31 pm on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

"That’s why we pay Walker a salary, and, provide him with an AG and state legal resources… no need to waste my tax money on $500.00 per hour criminal attorneys from Chicago…"

Ummm, the AG and state legal resources ARE tax money. He set up a legal defense fund, with approval, with his own campaign money."

Ummmm, it just doesn't get any clearer than that...

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Please provide proof that Walker has the resources of the AG's office at his disposal to defend him against this criminal investigation, the facts of which all occurred prior to Walker actually becoming the Governor.

In fact, the opposite of your assertions on this matter are the truth. NO taxpayer funds, either directly or indirectly, were or may be used by Walker to fund his defense against this criminal investigation.

Try pulling your head out from your rectum for a change, as you may actually learn something!

I would like to know how much it has cost the taxpayers for special prosecutors to drag this witch hunt out for two years.

Luke, I would prefer not to have a governor with a criminal defense fund. My "hopes" of an uneventful Walker governorship were "dashed" long ago.

Bren

Your hope of having a Governor Walker without a defense fund are about to come true.

Is there really any hope of Bren having the Governor?

Boffa -

"In fact, the opposite of your assertions on this matter are the truth. NO taxpayer funds, either directly or indirectly, were or may be used by Walker to fund his defense against this criminal investigation."

And you can prove that?

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Once again, Hoffa doesn't have to prove anything, as you're the one who originally made positive affirmations here without any supporting evidence or corroboration - it's on you to prove your assertions to be factually accurate as you originally claimed them to be and then proceeded to defend after-the-fact, again with nothing factual to back up such assertions.

Seeing as how all the facts of this case occurred prior to Walker becoming Governor, it would be inappropriate, unlawful, and a gross misuse of public monies (whether directly or indirectly via the use of the AG's office) to fund Walker's criminal defense efforts in this investigation because the case has nothing to do with Walker's representative capacity of being Governor of the state of Wisconsin - THAT'S WHY HE SET UP THE DEFENSE FUND. DUH!!!

Come on Wilson, are you really this stupid in real life, or are you only playing stupid here on the Patch?

Boffa -

"Gov Walker set up a criminal defense fund because he knew that Democrats would stop at nothing to attempt to charge him during the recall effort if his guard was down - even if it was little more than a railroad job trumped up charge.

By setting up the defense fund and using money from it to retain top level attorneys, it sent the message to Democrats that they had better not try anything hanky-panky during the recall. If Walker had not done this, it's very possible that we could have seen some BS railroad job trumped up charge made against him during the recall in an attempt to wrongfully discredit him to voters. If you remember, several of the ADA's involved in the case had signed petitions to recall Walker and were active in campaigning against Walker and for Tom Barrett."

Which ONE is it? Don't you remember from day to day?

"Mitt/Lyin' Ryan/Thompson!!!!"

"Seeing as how all the facts of this case occurred prior to Walker becoming Governor, it would be inappropriate, unlawful, and a gross misuse of public monies (whether directly or indirectly via the use of the AG's office) to fund Walker's criminal defense efforts in this investigation because the case has nothing to do with Walker's representative capacity of being Governor of the state of Wisconsin - THAT'S WHY HE SET UP THE DEFENSE FUND. DUH!!!"

@Lyin' John Wilson -

If you honestly can't tell that Hoffa was distinguishing between the practical reasons (the WHY) and the legal reasons (the HOW) as to Walker's criminal defense fund, then you honestly need some professional help with your reading comprehension skills pronto!

The practical reasons as to WHY Walker needed a criminal defense fund are directly related to politics and the recall effort against him, as Hoffa previously explained.

The legal reasons as to HOW Walker had to go about setting up his criminal defense efforts in a private fund are because he couldn't utilize taxpayer resources, such as the AG's office, to defend against such a criminal investigation, because none of the facts or time frame surrounding the investigation pertain to Walker operating in the official representative capacity of Governor, thus he had to fund any criminal defense efforts against such an investigation himself or via private voluntary donors.

Come on Wilson - did Hoffa really need to explain the distinctions between the WHY and the HOW for you? Hoffa thought that you were smarter than this.

Boffa -

"THAT'S WHY HE SET UP THE DEFENSE FUND. DUH!!!"

Hoffa wrote:
"@Bren -

Gov Walker set up a criminal defense fund because he knew that Democrats would stop at nothing to attempt to charge him during the recall effort if his guard was down - even if it was little more than a railroad job trumped up charge..."

Hoffa has it right again. Remember why Sarah Palin resigned? 18 ethics charges were filed against her, NONE of which had any merit. She ending up having to give up her Governorship because her family couldn't afford all the legal fees.

Another case where the Democratic attack machine won again. And now propagandists Bren, John Wilson and others are trying to do the same thing in Wisconsin.

Begs the question - You guys have been chasing Walker for two years (and have found abso(f'ing)lutely nothing - how about chasing Benghazi for 5 minutes and you will find the responsible party at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue?

Bren - I prefer my President not have "blood on his hands" from Benghazi.

Hey Ima Idiot. Give it a rest on Benghazi. Not the first time you've looked ridiculous.

Keith-"I still owe Hoffa 50 Bucks"-Schmitz wrote: "Hey Ima Idiot. Give it a rest on Benghazi. Not the first time you've looked ridiculous."

Democrat propaganda at work again! Here we have a legitimate issue where 4 Americans, including an ambassador, were killed. They were begging for assistance and received NONE! And to top it off, the country was purposely mislead by the administration so they wouldn't look bad. There are many, many many questions that need to be answered about this attack, and you have Schmitzy and many other Demoncrats dismissing any valid criticism...as usual.

BTW, Ima, keep pounding at this issue. The Demoncrats want it to go away like all the other skeltons they have in their closet.

Thanks Anti - appreciate the backup.

Leave it to Keith to respond with an ad hominem attack. Avoids the real issue - Benghazi and 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

BTW - why does Patch allow Keith on this message board? Oh yeah, the left is tolerant, kind, understanding, accepting and considerate.

Steve ... maybe its because all the people he hired are all crimminals including his best friend Russell. You can't be that stupid Stevie ... then again I guess you might be.

KHD -

Obviously, you have very high standards...

John - Barrett is a 3 time loser, maybe you should research yours before typing.

~ in solidarity

KHD is right - best governor we've ever had, not to mention the best governor in the entire country! Did you hear the applause he received at the Republican National Convention during the role call of states - it was incredible!

A good leader surrounds himself with good people! Wait what?

Khd ... Are you deaf dum and blind ?

Bucky, um, that would be dumb. As in three time loser Tom Barrett.

Not to mention that the City of Milwaukee's credit rating under Mayor Tom Barrett was once again downgraded by Moody's this month, and yet we see very little media coverage of such a story:

http://www.moodys.com/credit-ratings/Milwaukee-City-of-WI-credit-rating-600003550

It's curious why the media doesn't report on Mayor Barrett's credit downgrades, isn't it?

I guess I should have said "non-news".
Hey, who remembers Mork?

and look at all the job growth in the state ... still in last place.

Very probable Marge, but Tom Barrett never asked for an investigation when he found some improprieties.

Barrett could have requested that his wife be charged similar to Wink and Rindfleisch for using her public school issued email account to to engage in expressly and explicitly prohibited partisan political activity - but he didn't.

Kinda tells you who has more morals/ethics as between Walker and Barrett, doesn't it?

Boffa –

That is hilarious, Boffa writing and putting forth a morals/ethics argument!

Marge , and the Witch hunt still continues and every one of Walkers croneys are being convicted one after another and you call this a Witch Hunt ? I think that every night when Walker goes to bed that his last thought is , is tommorrow the day that I am going to be charged ? He knows that they are coming to get em just a matter of time.

@Tansandy -

Barrett's wife was indeed caught, but she was never charged or really punished with any kind of message sending disciplinary action. Instead, she was insulated and protected, receiving less than a slap on the hand - more like a brief finger pointing scolding and that's it. And yet, Democratic authorities in Milwaukee County saw fit to criminally charge and prosecute Wink and Rindfleisch for essentially engaging in similar activity.

Apparently, they call that justice in Milwaukee County - amazing!

Jump on a grenade to protect someone? Who? Do you really think that if there was something to this that these prosecuters wouldn't be licking their chops to go after Walker? You want to see someone jumpimg on a grenade you need look no further than Holder, Rice and Clinton.

@Walker -

Speaking of dead careers - that's Barrett being anything more politically than a Mayor of a city who's credit rating his leadership continues to drive down.

TOM -

Missed your medications, again?

@John

Care to substantiate the insult of Tom?

What about what he said deserved disagreement, let alone an insult? Just curious if you have anything to back up what you say. After all, Hoffa has provided line after line, and even challenged you to provide something substantial. It appears you have nothing but ad hominems

John: You are a self decribed pot smoker, and you have the audacity to accuse Tom of missing his meds?
idiot

Edward Willing -

Sad hominems, ad hominems...

If it is difficult for you to keep up here, perhaps this is not the blog for thee.

Is this sort of one of those love things?

Well I guess that they didn't get rid of all the parasites Tom because your still here.

Does Boffa still think that Mitt won ?

Richard Millhouse Nixon was the biggest crook of all - repudiating Bretton Woods and closing the International gold window. It's been pure FIAT since. How's that working out for you?

WIN - Whip Inflation Now! LOL.

Federal Reserve paper is backed by pure magic and your beliefs. At least you can buy Chinese crap with it, to fill American landfills later.

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Nixon was one of the greatest President's ever! Obama's criminal activities are a million fold worse than anything that the Nixon administration did with impropriety.

Lyle Ruble –

I find nothing too humorous in this entire situation, especially with a constant shadow over our Wisconsin Governor and our taxpayer money being used to defend him. Moreover, Walker himself brought this “investigation” up, again, under the guise of distancing himself from it… makes sense to me…

Furthermore, most of us understand that “investigations” of this sort often take a great deal of time to reach fruition, and, sometimes, there simply is not enough solid evidence to GUARANTEE a conviction, so no one proceeds with charges. About the last thing one would want to do is bring charges against a governor and then have your case fall apart. Then you have to deal with “politically motivated” charges and all sorts of other divisive junk, plus the possible end to your career as a prosecutor.

Time will tell just how humorous this really is…

John, the shadow that you speak ominously of tickles you.

The cloud is the creation of people like you that wanted it to get him recalled.

So, save it.

Edward Willing -

Not so...

The shadow is the result of Walker's own personal behavior, the associates he controlled and the DA's office inability to turn away from the stench without a thorough investigation...

Finally, you do have to remember that there have been guilty pleas and sentencing for associates… so far…

Here's a decent and fairly recent roundup of the John Doe investigation: http://gazettextra.com/news/2012/nov/20/democrats-rip-wis-gov-over-county-campaign-ties/

In my opinion, "plausible deniability" is just another term for "I'm doing something sleazy, but I want to be able to fool the voters into thinking I'm better than I really am." You can tell a lot about a person by the people they choose to associate with. Obama has chosen to surround himself with people who would do things that might be shady so he can sacrifice them if they get caught. However, he would be perfectly willing to take advantage of anything these people might do that would help his career.

@Steve...What's your point other than parroting Dave Koven?

@Lyle -

Hoffa believes that Steve's point is that you and others like you voted a man to be our President of these United States who is just as sleazy, if not even more so than our Governor, whom you all despise.

In other words, Koven, you, and all the other Dems that are critical of Walker over this investigation are nothing but hypocrites if you also voted for Obama.

Honestly, Hoffa thought that the point was obvious, but was more than happy to assist you with this explanation :-)

Cheers!

My point is clear, Lyle

In my opinion, "plausible deniability" is just another term for "I'm doing something sleazy, but I want to be able to fool the voters into thinking I'm better than I really am." You can tell a lot about a person by the people they choose to associate with. Scott Walker has chosen to surround himself with people who would do things that might be shady so he can sacrifice them if they get caught. However, he would be perfectly willing to take advantage of anything these people might do that would help his career.

Hoffa, is your boy Darryl Issa doin' the job of digging up corruption on Obama?

Unless you have evidence that there is something rotten in Denmark you are simply ranting like Grampy McCain and his little buddy from South Carolina.

@Schmitzy -

If you can't even acknowledge Obama's own inconsistencies on Benghazi, then there's something seriously wrong with you.

Candy Crowley cost Romney that debate with her LIE, and quite possibly the election.

Keith, is your boy Holder doin' the job of hiding corruption on Obama?

Walker would actually be a good President vs Obama, who has and continues to be a horrible President with an economic record worse than Jimmy Carter.

Balanced budget
Revenues up
Revenues up past expected amounts
Surplus keeps growing
Unemployment down, even with Obama at the head
Public workers jobs saved
Business growth
Business environment positive
DNR changed from we are against you to we are with you
Tax increases down, or stagnant
Right to defend yourself
Voting fraud tackled, or tackling
State not on fire
Environment not polluted
Sky not falling
Democrats out of power

Guess you are against those facts, or is it just the last one?

Thanks Hoffa for confirming that you don't read very much. Suggest less time spouting off on Patch and more time self-educating.

@Schmitzy -

It's the quality of the info that matters, not the quantity. And irregardless of how many 'stories' you read over on the Daily Kos, MoveOn.org, and Mother Jones, Hoffa will always be more well informed than you!

Mr. Hoffa, the rules are different for the County Executive's Office and MPS. This was a case of illegal campaign activity v. poor judgement (in my opinion--I do not advocate using work email for this purpose). I believe the rules in the CE Office have been in place for some time and are intended to protect we the taxpayers.

@Bren -

Does MPS not use taxpayer funds to maintain and operate it's email server that Mrs. Barrett used contrary to established rules that "have been in place for some time and are intended to protect we the taxpayers," from the misuse by employees of the public infrastructure?

Please provide your source showing that MPS's email server is not funded, maintained, and operated with public taxpayers funds, as that's news to Hoffa.

The activity is exactly the same, and the taxpayers effected in exactly the same matter in both instances, whether you'd care to admit to it or not.

Just because the law treats the two violations differently doesn't mean that they aren't in fact exactly the same activity. Please, use some logic for a change!

To state that Mrs. Barrett's activities merely constituted "poor judgment," while Walker's people doing exactly the same thing qualified as "illegal campaign activity," shows how truly partisan and non-independent you really are!

Try again Bren, only this time, try to at least come up with an argument that isn't so easily attacked for being utterly absurd!

Hoffa, I find it interesting that Kris Barrett put in quotes that she was "officially" contacting ... then she signed Kris Barrett, Dover Street School. This is much more egregious than just using taxpayer funded E-mail. Who gave her the authority to represent MPS "officially"?

@Greg -

You're absolutely right - Kris Barrett should be prosecuted for impersonating a position with color of authority that she was never officially authorized to convey.

Why wasn't Kris Barrett charged, prosecuted, and sent to jail? Oh, that's right - because she's a Democrat.

Boffa -

"Why wasn't Kris Barrett charged, prosecuted, and sent to jail? Oh, that's right - because she's a Democrat."

You poor baby...

Don't you ever get tired of whining?

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Don't you ever get tired of employing double standards and being hypocritical?

Bren wrote: "Mr. Hoffa, the rules are different for the County Executive's Office and MPS..."

Wrong again. ANY use of public resources is illegal.

Where were Bren and John in 2002 when some of Jim Doyle's aides were campaigning when they were clocked in state time?

The Anti-Alinsky -

In 2002 we had just completed the launch of Windows XP and I was living in Redmond, Washington – you know the creative state where you still have personal freedoms, like the freedom to smoke marijuana without being sent to prison for life or being the object of decapitation.

Thus, I could have cared less about what my corpulent beer bellied, cheese head eating buffoons were doing back in Wisconsin or what was happening in the state government.

You do realize, of course, that whatever was occurring in Wisconsin back in 2002 has absolutely nothing to do with Walker and his merry gang of felons in 2010-2012… Well, perhaps you don’t… as you red sisters keep wanting to make comparisons between Barrett and Walker, Doyle and Walker… last I checked, neither Barrett nor Doyle was under investigation by a John Doe probe and they certainly did not ever have a rather infamous “Defense Fund.”

Moreover, the topic here is clearly Walker… you may distract, divert, dissuade and mislead all you want; the topic is clearly Walker…

I do forgive you though, because I understand that logic is not the forte of members of the TAP, and I know that, for you folks at least, distinguishing between an apple and an orange is a cognitive feat requiring years of concentration…

Please, try to keep up…

Hoffa, comparing Kris' mistake vs this massive pile out of the county executive's office is like comparing a bunny hill to Mount Everest.

John Wilson wrote: "...In 2002 we had just completed the launch of Windows XP and I was living in Redmond, Washington..."
That actually answers alot of my questions about XP.

OK, clever rhetoric out of the way, now to the serious stuff. The difference in this case Johnny is not the time-frame, 8 years ago vs. today. The difference is Democrat vs. Republican. When Diamond Jim Doyle was caught having his staff on his Gubernatorial campaign on the taxpayers dime, he just dismissed it and the press went along. Which is ironic since this is the same guy that won TWICE by making his opponents out as criminals.

@Schmitzy -

Wait just a minute.

Kris Barrett uses the public infrastructure to engage in expressly prohibited political activities without the knowledge of the Mayor or her superiors at MPS and it's merely a mistake, while people in the CE's office under Walker's tenure that did EXACTLY the same thing without Walker's knowledge somehow constitutes criminal activity?!?!

Even your single brain cell should be enough to allow you to realize how hypocritical your statement on this matter truly is.

Boffa –

“…while people in the CE's office under Walker's tenure that did EXACTLY the same thing without Walker's knowledge somehow constitutes criminal activity?!?!”

I am really impressed with your kindergarten English [?!?!]

Beyond that, where is your proof that this happened, “without Walker’s knowledge”?

Seem to me you are assuming many things, including, FACTS NOT IN EVIDENCE!

The Anti-Alinsky –

First, Windows XP OS is the greatest OS that Microsoft ever released; it is over 11-years old and almost 35% of Microsoft uses are still dedicated to it, and it is still being supported. It is clearly understandable that you would have problems with any technology beyond a spoon

Again, your thickness aside, the topic is TAP Walker, and his band of merry felons…

@Lyin' John Wilson -

Still having problems with your reading comprehension?

The justice system in this country is premised upon the presumption of innocence - guilt must be proven beyond a certain burden of proof, and 2.6 years later it still hasn't. Thus Walker is innocent and remains innocent.

Guess your brain is limited to half a cell, as even Schmitzy would have already realized such without needing Hoffa's explanation.

Boffa -

Your ASSUMPTION that "WALKER HAD NO KNOWLEDGE “may, in fact, be true, as he does not appear to be very bright…

In terms of legal machinations “Walker had no knowledge”, regarding the behavior of his merry felon subordinates is not supported by any court record or independent FACT.

Hence, you are, as usual, simply incorrect.

Please tell me, do you work at writing the obvious – everyone in innocent until proven guilty – and being inordinately dense or does it just come naturally?

@Lyin' John Wilson -

It's not an assumption Johnny boy!

Did you not read the article above the comments? Walker definitively stated that he had no knowledge of any wrongdoing going on in the CE office, otherwise "he would have done the right thing if he had knowledge of any misconduct." And it has not been proven otherwise. Thus, Walker had no knowledge, period. Unless of course you have proof to the contrary, which you really should have shared with everyone upfront before getting too deep into your psychosis laden ramblings.

John Wilson wrote: "...First, Windows XP OS is the greatest OS that Microsoft ever released..."

I noticed you had to qualify that by pointing out it was a Microsoft product. I am still waiting for the Microsoft OS that will be as good as they claim. In the meantime, I bet you use a Mac don't you?

@Keith Best....The only thing that concerns me is that the judge in the case stated that the case is still open. Why?

Keith Best -

Actually, it has been open for 2-years and 6 months; in December, it will be 2-years and 7 months... Walker aide, Tim Russell will be doing an amended plea, TOMORROW!

Do tune in…

Earlier this month, ex-Walker aide Kelly Rindfleisch was given six months in jail and three years’ probation for raising campaign money on county time for Republican lieutenant governor candidate Brett Davis. In addition, former county aide Darlene Wink still awaits sentencing on two charges of doing campaign work on taxpayers’ time. Media reports said Wink promised to help prosecutors uncover more evidence in a John Doe probe that is still taking place.

It is not going to end soon, and you sure will not be having a party in Waukesha Republican Headquarters when it does...

Lyle Ruble -

That’s easy… cuz we aint got that sucka hangin’ from dah state house yet!

Walker knew all.

Good whine takes a lot less.

@Terry--
Your 4 points are dead on. You nailed exactly what is going on in Milwaukee County. This whole thing reminds me how the left was so excited when they thought Karl Rove was going to be taken out for supposedly outing Valerie Plame....except it turned out it was state dept.'s Richard Armitage who did the outing.
This too, shall pass.

Terry -

It is always refreshing to hear someone on the Patch issue forth with so much FACTUAL information [innuendo, supposition] and then conclude, delusional and very psychotically, that this is all a scheme to get Walker.

It will end when it ends. If there is enough EVIDENCE to charge Walker with something, and, the DA is GUARANTEED a CONVICTION he will be CHARGED. If not, the John Doe will just go away.

Do you really think that your incoherent, lemming Walker rant is going to hasten the conclusion?

Finally: At the end of the John Doe investigations, Neal Nettesheim will pull the mask off of Scott Walker and reveal his real identity to be Karl Christian Rove…

Oh I see John. My position is the psychotic one. What did you post just above here?

"cuz we aint got that sucka hangin’ from dah state house yet"

Yes, clearly you are the stable one in this discussion. Oh, and by the way in regards to my "reasonable suspicion" about how this John Doe is being conducted. The only reason we know that this investigation is going on is due to leaks from this supposedly secret investigation. Leaks that happen to come just before Walkers initial election, and then again, just before the recall.

If Chisholm had the knife, he would have struck already. The fact that he hasn't is telling.

Terry –

There is this new concept, just came out YESTERDAY… it is called HUMOR. Understandably, you right wing, paranoid TAP folks would not be aware of that. [Or] you simple lack the distinctly human capacity for HUMOR...

"cuz we aint got that sucka hangin’ from dah state house yet" = HUMOR.

Ostensibly, a John Doe Investigation is, by law, a secret investigation. I would question both the veracity and motivations of any leak coming forth from any John Doe, but that is just me. You go ahead and build as many castles in the sky as you want, you may even go live in them…

Meanwhile, I will send you an English Language Tutor and a psychotherapist… I sincerely hope it helps…

John Wilson wrote (between tokes I suspect): "
Terry -

It is always refreshing to hear someone on the Patch issue forth with so much FACTUAL information [innuendo, supposition] and then conclude, delusional and very psychotically, that this is all a scheme to get Walker."

Johnny quotes the DailyKos on a regular basis, then accuses Terry of innuendo and supposition? He is a bigger propagandist than Bren.

It's part of the "left wing package" Anti-Alinski to transpose their own attributes to those they disagree with. It's part of what makes them such wonderful hypocrites.

@ Terry .... Does anyone really believe that if Chisholm had anything actionable on Walker that he would have waited this long. The answer is yes and after the last 4 convictions am sure that Chiz and the Feds have a hell of alot more.

Drive to 24 -

Nettesheim (D) as a judge received a judicial appointment by then-Democratic Governor Tony Earl. In a hotly contested race between a conservative and liberal Supreme Court candidate.

Nettesheim began practicing law in 1966 following graduation from Marquette University Law School.[1] His judicial career began in 1975 after he was elected a Waukesha County, Wisconsin Judge. Later, he became a Wisconsin Circuit Court Judge. He remained on the Circuit Court, eventually becoming a Presiding Judge, until his appointment to the Court of Appeals in 1984. During his tenure with the Court of Appeals, he served as a Presiding Judge twice. First, from 1990 to 1993, and second, from 2001 to 2003. He also became Deputy Chief Judge in 1998 and remained in that position until his retirement in 2007.

He can take as long as he wants. I am not particularly worried about it. But, I have enough contacts with the legalt community to know that the length is unusual, even for a complex case (which we have see no sign that this is). When even lawyers, who are paid (a lot) by the hour, start questioning the time involved, the questions start becoming reasonable.

Terry -

You can not control EVERYTHING!

Whenever this investigation ends, we will know a lot more about the HOW/WHY than we do now. Someone is obviously going to have to JUSTIFY the now 2-year 6-month probe... and if they can't, then obviously heads are going to roll...

On the other hand, if Walker is in fact guilty it is not beyond reason to realize the weasel did a good job of covering his trail.

Chisholm is no hack. He's doing this for a reason.

Terry ... Took 4 years to imprison Bogo ... Next is Bonzo.

Bren,
Speaking of a lack if interest in accuracy, exactly what is it that you don't understand about the use of "I" in Waker's statement?

Luke, the accuracy issue for me is that once again Scott Walker picked a metric out of the air when it was completely unnecessary.

Risk-averse and accountable, I hesitate to set a metric without solid evidence of achievability. Post-recession, I lean even further toward real fiscal conservatism--as a democratic republic we cannot resolve our fiscal woes by "paying ourselves back" through the nationalization of Wall Street assets and cleaning out the Bush family piggy bank (don't forget about Neil Bush and the S&L bailout). The logical alternative is to attack and resolve the causal factors of the recession (that doesn't mean taking an axe to necessary programs. It's a smart, strategic, balanced plan that's needed).

So I find baseless assertions/metrics and no accountability irksome. Most of us do have to be accountable in the various sectors of our lives, and also don't generally make promises we know we can't keep. So when someone makes a promise we project that same expectation of achievability, or write that person off as a lightweight when they renege. Why should politicians get a free pass?

@Bren -

Did you consider the accuracy of Obama's assertions that passing his nearly $1T stimulus would result in unemployment below 5.6% today when you cast your vote for him on November 6th?

And yet, you want to attack Walker over a statement that was clearly opinion based from the get go?!?!

Come on Bren!

The accuracy issue for me is that Bren claims "Scott Walker picked a metric out of the air". Do you have video of this event? Is this even possible? Does Bren expect a free pass?

No, Bren is just ignorant. Walker was speaking about what he hoped would happen. Bren thinks that Walker is predicting what will happen. So now Bren is in the awkward position of arguing that it is wrong to hope that something will happen sooner than later.

Bren doesn't understand what "I hope" means. Odd.

To compound the absurdity, Bren also thinks Walker is giving a summary statement regarding articles in the newspaper. Huh?!

Mr. Hoffa, Greg, Luke, my underlying point was that I believe Walker's word choice served its primary purpose, that of getting him in the limelight once again (again, my opinion). We're all "talking" about him again, aren't we?

No, Bren, that wasn't your point at all. You were quite specific. See your comments in your second post.

No, just answered my own question. Scott Walker gets no more of my attention today.

Typical crush.

Greg, thanks for the chuckle! ; )

Bren –

I THINK YOU MIGHT AGREE:

This is just so very sad, another aide of the saintly, TAP [Take Away Party] Walker pleads guilty to a FELONY!

It just rather makes one wonder…

Does this person with the crown of his head growing through his hair [i.e., Walker] hire anyone with even a sliver of honesty or integrity?

Is the state of Wisconsin really so corrupt that we could do no better than TAP Walker?

Is this really the best the good citizens of Wisconsin can do?

http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/crime_and_courts/updated-ex-walker-aide-russell-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-from/article_df30ec10-3a5c-11e2-a737-0019bb2963f4.html

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/former-walker-aide-pleads-guilt-to-embezzlement-charge-in-john-doe-iq7rgfb-181418561.html

John, what is there to "say" at this point? I find this embarrassing, clearly not everyone does.

@Bren -

What Hoffa finds most embarrassing is people who claim to support domestic labor but then purchase vehicles assembled in right to work for less states.

" Walker said. "I said, like most people I would be happy and hopeful that it might be done this week," Walker said." when Walker speaks WHO ARE " like most people ". THE Most People that I know want to see this thug imprisioned for life. The only one that wants this over is Preibus the God Father, and I think that he is also on the Feds list.

Drive 2 24 ... That's just one example of how ... Walker = Coruption.

I am sorry John, who is saying he got off easy? Just Google embezzlement and check out what you see for white collar crimes such as this for this amount of money.

30 months incarceration is actually fairly harsh for what is typical in these cases. Until you get over a hundred thousand, its actually pretty rare to see more than a year. Heck, the woman that embezzeled 34 million from Koss only got eleven years, and this was a tiny fraction of what she stole.

If this was his "deal" to turn on someone, he needs to fire his attorney, because he got robbed at the negotiating table. If you want to read anything into his sentence, it is more likely that he got hammered because he either wouldn't give anyone up, or had nothing to offer.

Oh, and again with the hypocrisy theme of above, how is what you are implying here any different from the "innuendo, supposition" you accused others of above?

Terry –

You do not have to be sorry; I am saying that he got off easy, per the plea deal. Furthermore, each case is different and does not rely solely on the amount of money embezzled. It relies on many other factors, including, but not limited to, the age of the defended, the position of trust involved, family situation, past record, degree of cooperation, likelihood of a repeat offense, etc. [Plea deals do not have to specifically state that the defendant will cooperate against other persons being investigated; that could be a hold back to not show the prosecutors hold hand.]

“Russell, 49, of Sun Prairie, was charged in January with “two felonies” and “a misdemeanor for allegedly stealing money from a fund for veterans” and “from the campaign committees of two Milwaukee County Board candidates.”

This person stole money from veterans!

HOW DID HE GET OFF SO EASY?

Now, you can read whatever you want into that…

“Russell faces up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine when he is sentenced by Judge David Hansher, who is “not obligated to follow the plea deal” worked out between Landgraf, Russell and Mathers. The original charges held penalties of up to 14 years in prison and $45,000 in fines.”

“Russell also allegedly was responsible for an "unofficial networking system" installed in the office of Kelly Rindfleisch, who succeeded him as Walker's deputy chief of staff, according to the criminal complaint filed against Rindfleisch.”

Believe what you want John. Just like I wouldn't tell a child that there is no Santa Claus or Easter Bunny, it isn't my place either to tell you that Chisholm won't come through with a gift for you. If that is what you need to believe to get yourself to sleep at night, then may your dreams come true.

But the evidence is there if you want to see it. A simple internet search will show you that this sentence is not in fact "easy" as you wish us to believe, and in fact is actually more on the "harsh" end. So if your "innuendo, supposition" is that this sentence is a sign that he is giving Walker to Chisholm, a simple check would show you that you may need to look elsewhere for that comfort.

Terry -

Look, I have many wonderful things too both get me to sleep at night and keep me awake at night...

If Walker gets charged and convicted, fine.

If the John Doe Probe just quietly closes at some point in time, fine.

Walker is merely a blimp on my radar.

Time will tell...

AAAAAAAAND Johnny runs away with his tail between his legs.

John Wilson wrote:
"“Russell, 49, of Sun Prairie, was charged in January with “two felonies” and “a misdemeanor for allegedly stealing money from a fund for veterans” and “from the campaign committees of two Milwaukee County Board candidates.”

This person stole money from veterans!

HOW DID HE GET OFF SO EASY?

Now, you can read whatever you want into that…

“Russell faces up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine when he is sentenced by Judge David Hansher, who is “not obligated to follow the plea deal” worked out between Landgraf, Russell and Mathers. The original charges held penalties of up to 14 years in prison and $45,000 in fines...”

Sorry Johnny, but this is an outrageous sentence:
http://www.fdlreporter.com/article/20121126/FON0101/311260316/10-years-probation-given-baby-s-death

Sniff, sniff. We are not amused with this thing called democracy.

That's not democracy you're smelling, Keith. It's you and the rest of the bitter end sore losers crapping all over it.

Right Bob. The GOP's road to prosperity is paved right over you. I'll have to look for the large bulge and avoid it.

Keith, in 2014 your have your next opportunity to attempt to right the wrongs as you see them. You abused the privilege this year in order to attempt a mulligan - and you lost. And here you sit, still whining and bitching about it.

You can suck it up and join the grown-ups, or continue to suck your thumb and act like a big, overgrown baby. For once in your life, do the responsible thing. Act your age, own up to your failures and stop blaming everyone else because your ill-begotten plans fell through. Break the pattern Keith. Once and for all.

Schmitzy do the responsible thing?!?!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!

Good one Bob!

Weseals don't have character.

Keith:

Weren't those 'chickens' supposed to have come home already? You tried the recall and lost. Please move on already...

Funny, the same could be said about Obama over the Benghazi debacle on the anniversary of 9/11, only it would be even more true.

No one died due to Walker's alleged corruption/incompetence.

How does Schmitzy feel about Kris Barrett using her MPS email account to engage in expressly prohibited political activities?

We need to consider the high probability that Walker is both incompetent AND corrupt.

Who is "we"? Do you have a Schmitzy in your pocket?

Greg - My, am I detecting some fear and desperation that Walker, your idol and false god, may be headed for one of those cinderblock country clubs inhabited by recent Illinois governors? You and all the other Walker worshipers are already looking tainted and suckered, with every guilty plea of his handpicked minions.

Keith - are you referring to Obama? Holder? Clinton? Rice?

What else don't you know Bob?

Oh I forgot. Towering intellectual who of course, backs no political party because of, a towering intellect. I greatly apologize.

I don't know why you expect to be taken seriously on the topic of how to run anything. Other than that I don't think there's anything you can help me with. Apology accepted. Now back to mooching WiFi for you...

@Greg- have you seen the cost of the litigation against the laws Walker signed. Just saying- everything is relative ....

@Drive To 24 -

The costs that the state is incurring in defending against frivolous lawsuits is resultant of the sore loser blue fisters - not Governor Walker or the legislation.

Just saying...

@james- I guess the definition of frivolous depends on your point of view.

DriveTo 24 is making very little sense....as usual.
Perhaps you would care to elucidate your accusation?
From what I read, this was a matter of two government agencies not communicating:
State Sen. Julie Lassa, a Democrat also from Stevens Point who serves on the WEDC board, said this could be a case of wires getting crossed within state agencies, and "it's turning into a situation that looks bad for the state."

( http://www.twincities.com/wisconsin/ci_20893242/bid-rigging-concerns-prompt-wisconsin-suspend-contract-offer )

I like open for fraud.

Drive To 24, the only "insult" is to point out your incorrect conclusions.

As far as an update, nothing newer than reported.

Drive, I classify it as clever analysis and calling it the way I see it!

The J S news paper does not include the facts that let you know Scott Walker was lying about his full cooperation with the DA.The paper says Tom Nardelli alerted the Milwaukee County DA of a shortfall of about $11,000 in “Operation Freedom” money in 2009 BUT neglects to note that the reason the investigation turned into a secret one – - known as a “John Doe” probe in Wisconsin — is because Scott Walker’s office stonewalled the DA. And the reason that you and I came to know this is because Timothy Russell’s own legal representation, Dennis Krueger, let the cat out of the bag by directing a document straight to reporter Daniel Bice of the J S. Watch for Brett Davis's name to be included in the inditments. I got a Feeling that 2013 is going to be a great year for convictions ... Right Scooter.

Bucky -

A lot of this has been well reported, along the way, as well as the fact that numerous other “Defense Attorneys” have leaked sensitive information to the press. No one with more than 2 brain cells ever believed that Walker or a member of his staff called this missing money discrepancy to the DA’s attention, and then quickly went and hired “Defense Attorneys” and subsequently told the press that he was “cooperating” in the subsequent investigation(s), while telling people to be silent and dissembling when questioned by law enforcement.

Walker and 6-other governors will be meeting next week with President Obama, ostensibly over the fiscal cliff, one only wonders if he will he bringing his industrial strength kneepads…

This is destined not to turn out too well for either Walker or his lemmings in the TAP.

Steve ® -

Assumptions simply proliferate here...

Where was it reported that the John Doe Probe was “closed?”

Where was it reported that Gov. Walker was “cleared?”

Typically, John Doe Probes go on and they may or may not announce that they are closed.

Typically, too, they NEVER announce that ANYONE is “cleared.”

What usually happens is that a John Doe Probe may close and 1) there has not been sufficient evidence accumulated to GUARANTEE a conviction 2) you do NOT want to charge a Gov. with a crime unless you can GUARANTEE a CONVICTION, because if you lose in court, your political career is over. In either case, that does not mean anyone has been “cleared.”

It is like the OJ Trial, he was found “Not Guilty” in a trial. That merely means that there was not enough evidence to obtain a conviction with that jury, not that he was “cleared” or found innocent…

On the front page of the Sunday Journal.

You are insane John.

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/report-scott-walker-probe-closed-with-no-new-charges-qh8vsfb-194194091.html

►John Doe probe of Scott Walker office closed with no new charges◄

Steve ® -

Six out of six charged is an excellent conviction rate!

“After a review of the John Doe evidence, I am satisfied that [all charges that are supported by proof (beyond a reasonable doubt) have now been brought and concluded,"] Chisholm said in a statement. "As a consequence, last week my office petitioned for, and Judge Nettesheim has granted, the closure of the John Doe investigation."

“Under the judge's direction, the order closing the investigation was made public. Otherwise, the John Doe secrecy order remains in effect for testimony and documents in the case.”

Perhaps now Gov. Walker will be able to “focus like a laser” – just like the 112th (R) Congress did – on JOBS, JOBS, JOBS! After all, he only has less than 2-years to create the other 209,000 new jobs, which would fulfill his campaign promise of 250,000 new jobs in his governorship.