UW experts available on state budget address

Newly elected Gov. Scott Walker kicks off the process of crafting the two-year budget while addressing a more than $3 billion deficit with his budget address on Tuesday, Feb. 22. UW–Madison has a number of experts who can discuss the speech and Walker’s proposals.

Charles Franklin, professor of political science, is an expert on public opinion and can analyze the speech and how Walker’s proposals could be received. Contact info: franklin@polisci.wisc.edu, 608-235-1960
Dennis Dresang, emeritus professor of political science, is an expert on Wisconsin politics and can discuss Walker’s proposals to restructure state government and how state employees may fare under his plans. Contact: dresang@lafollette.wisc.edu, 608-238-8714.
Thomas Oliver, professor of population health sciences and an expert on health policy, politics and system reform, can discuss last year’s health reform legislation and the decision in Wisconsin to join a lawsuit against it. He can also comment on potential cuts to the state’s BadgerCare program for children and working families. Contact: 608-262-6731, troliver@wisc.edu.
Andrew Reschovsky, professor of public affairs and applied economics for the La Follette School of Public Affairs, can talk about the state budget and efforts to reduce the state’s estimated $3.1 billion deficit. Contact: reschovsky@lafollette.wisc.edu, 608-263-0447.
Cecelia Klingele, professor of law, is an expert on criminal justice policy and administration and can discuss early release programs. Contact: cklingele@wisc.edu, 608-890-3258