Healing the political divide in Wisconsin

APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) Governor Walker made it pretty clear in his victory speech Tuesday: He wants to see republicans and democrats working together at the state Capitol.

Legislators have been invited by the Governor for brats, beer and burgers next week to begin to heal the divide.  Members on both sides of the aisle say they're willing to give it a try.  Some elected officials say they feel like they've been working against each other for the last 16 months.

State Representative Penny Bernard Schaber says, "We have to find ways to make our economy development process work better and make sure everyone has access to good paying jobs and that we all can work here in Wisconsin."

State Representative Dean Kaufert adds there are already signs that the divide is healing: "There's some talk in Madison about coming together to discuss mining legislation one more time."

Some republican lawmakers say they were troubled by a demonstration in Madison Wednesday where a group of 30 protesters stormed the Capitol to chant and were later removed by police.  Kaufert says this was not a sign of improved civility.

State Representative Michelle Litjens took a different approach to mending fences.  After the Walker victory Tuesday night, she tweeted:" Walker can't heal Wisconsin, but we can.  Talking to our friends and family we haven't talked to in a year.  It is our job to heal Wisconsin. I'm up for it."  Last February, Litjens announced she would not be seeking a second term.