Missing in Madison: Democratic leadership

In Madison, Presidents Day was day No. 6 of protests against Gov. Scott Walker’s (R) union-busting legislation.

And that’s exactly what it is. State workers have already agreed to make whatever financial concessions the governor’s seeking. What they will not accept is the governor’s added demand that they give up their constitutional right to collective bargaining.

Nor should they. Unions fought hard for that privilege, starting in Wisconsin, 75 years ago. It’s the only protection middle-class Americans now have. Nobody else is there to protect them, unless they’re able to organize and fight for themselves and their families.

Yes, it’s impressive to see the tens of thousands of workers who have shown up in Madison to support nurses, teachers and other public employees. But what’s troubling is who has not yet shown up.

Let’s be honest. Most Democratic politicians would not be in office today without the hard work and financial support of union workers. So now’s the time Democratic leaders should be on the front lines, supporting those who supported them.

Both the House and the Senate are in recess this week. So there’s no longer any excuse for their absence.

Democratic leaders Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, Steny Hoyer, Dick Durbin and Vice President Joe Biden: You belong in Madison!

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