Wisconsin leaders deserve praise

Hats off to the courageous politicians in Wisconsin who are attempting to get public workers to pay half the costs of their pensions and at least 12.6 percent of their health care coverage. It's projected to save the state (i.e., taxpayers) $300 million over the next two years.

TV coverage from Madison has been fascinating. The opposition's response has been a case study for union militancy — teachers calling in sick throughout the state in order to protest (often in screaming fashion); students being used as pawns attending the protest; signs comparing the governor to Hitler. A teaching moment indeed.

Imagine Illinois politicians following Wisconsin's lead. Not a chance. First of all, this state is governed by Democrats who kowtow to unions. Next, try to find a politician from either party who hasn't taken money from the Illinois Education Association.

It takes common sense, guts and principled leaders to do what the Wisconsin Republicans are attempting to do — behavior befitting the birthplace of the GOP. The taxpayers in America's Dairyland are fortunate to have politicians who are looking out for them.

Mike Davitt

Naperville