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Unintimidated: A Governor's Story and a Nation's Challenge
“Today, we can sound like conservatives and act like conservatives—and still win elections. Those who say we can’t don’t see what I see in Wisconsin and what my fellow governors in states all across America see. We don’t need to change our principles. What we need is more courage.”
In 2011, Wisconsin governor Scott Walker’s chances of staying in office looked bleak. Angry protesters—furious about his collective bargaining proposal—swarmed Madison, camped in the capitol, and attempted to block the passage of the governor’s reform legislation. Teachers unions accused him of sabotaging education. His approval numbers fell to the basement, and with the national media’s descent on Wisconsin, liberals denounced “Dead Man Walker.” He found himself fighting for his reforms, fielding death threats, and facing an unprecedented recall election.
But then something happened. Walker’s policies began to work. His constituents realized they were better off with his leadership, and in June 2012, he became the first governor in American history to survive a recall attempt, winning with a higher share of the vote than he had for his original election.
In Unintimidated, Governor Walker tells the story of his fight to save Wisconsin from a $3.6 billion budget deficit while simultaneously improving the state’s schools and public infrastructure. He describes how he stood for his convictions against enormous political pressure and personal attacks. He explains how he knew his reforms would work, based on his experience as a local official.
Speaking from the perspective earned from his resounding victory, he outlines lessons conservatives on the national stage can learn from his success, such as:
• Change the polls, not your principles. • Don’t accept the false choices presented to you. • You can reform entitlements and survive. • Austerity is not the answer. • Never stop reforming.
Walker is living proof that conservatives need not move to the center to win. He argues that Republicans must offer Americans big, bold, positive solutions for our nation’s challenges—and have the courage to implement them. Walker has shown that even President Obama will back down when faced with reforms promoted with common sense and courage.
In 2011, Wisconsin governor Scott Walker’s chances of staying in office looked bleak. Angry protesters—furious about his collective bargaining proposal—swarmed Madison, camped in the capitol, and attempted to block the passage of the governor’s reform legislation. Teachers unions accused him of sabotaging education. His approval numbers fell to the basement, and with the national media’s descent on Wisconsin, liberals denounced “Dead Man Walker.” He found himself fighting for his reforms, fielding death threats, and facing an unprecedented recall election.
But then something happened. Walker’s policies began to work. His constituents realized they were better off with his leadership, and in June 2012, he became the first governor in American history to survive a recall attempt, winning with a higher share of the vote than he had for his original election.
In Unintimidated, Governor Walker tells the story of his fight to save Wisconsin from a $3.6 billion budget deficit while simultaneously improving the state’s schools and public infrastructure. He describes how he stood for his convictions against enormous political pressure and personal attacks. He explains how he knew his reforms would work, based on his experience as a local official.
Speaking from the perspective earned from his resounding victory, he outlines lessons conservatives on the national stage can learn from his success, such as:
• Change the polls, not your principles. • Don’t accept the false choices presented to you. • You can reform entitlements and survive. • Austerity is not the answer. • Never stop reforming.
Walker is living proof that conservatives need not move to the center to win. He argues that Republicans must offer Americans big, bold, positive solutions for our nation’s challenges—and have the courage to implement them. Walker has shown that even President Obama will back down when faced with reforms promoted with common sense and courage.
288 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2013
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188 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 30, 2018
This book was published in 2013, written with Marc Thiessen, former speechwriter to Donald Rumsfeld and political columnist. It has about fourteen pages of glossy photos mostly of the recall period when protesters took over the state capitol in Madison. The pictures are frightening, of angry people in a democratic system appearing to come apart. The final third of the book after the photos is a victory lap, comparing Walker to Reagan, and even once to Obama:
Scott Walker was responsible for the passing of Act 10 in Wisconsin which increased the contribution from public employees to pension and health care, limited their right to collectively bargain for wages, and eliminated the requirement that beneficiaries of union bargaining pay dues. Police and firefighters were not included as public sector employees in any restriction to rights. Walker proposed the legislation immediately after taking office in 2011, with no explanation and no warning.
Later, Walker would write in this book that even his wife Tonette had no idea what he was trying to accomplish. He asked himself, “If even my own wife didn’t see why we needed to change collective bargaining, how could I expect the voters of Wisconsin to see it? I was obviously doing a lousy job of explaining our reforms.” This man is dead serious.
Walker kept repeating the mantra that jobs had increased in his state after Act 10, but to my knowledge he never asked himself whether the jobs were good jobs with wages high enough to sustain families and pay taxes. Did he replace higher-paying jobs with lower-paying jobs? “I knew I had done the right thing, but I had not taken the time to explain why it was the right thing to do….Tonette is an excellent political barometer for me because she is like a lot of Wisconsin voters…” This is a real political animal at work, with a range of opinions coming to him from the far reaches of his bedroom.
Then the argument changes: “For some, it’s difficult to change. As the American Enterprise Institute’s Rick Hess points out, ‘It’s really hard for Pan Am or TWA to just turn into JetBlue’… That’s why charter schools are still important. They give innovators a chance to start the educational equivalents of JetBlue.” There is too much here to unpack & argue with—we are being hit from every direction with ink in a fan. We really need to debrief these folks and figure out what their real problem is with public schools. I think I know but would like to hear it from them. I believe they want to obscure the reasons for their support of charter schools because they know we cannot support them…it just isn’t teacher’s salaries. I think Jane Mayer gave us the explanation in her book Dark Money: indoctrination.
Six weeks before his recall election in June 2012, a year and a half after he took office, Walker went to Illinois. “This election is way bigger than me,” he said, and I think that is probably true. Lots of money and support—outside money and support—was riding on his ability to show that breaking the unions and furthering the cause of charter schools made a difference in a formerly Democratic stronghold.
“President Obama and I could not be philosophically further apart…But in some other respects, President Obama and I ran similar campaigns. We even had the same slogan: “Forward.” (…“Forward” is the Wisconsin state motto.)The arrogance of this comparison is almost too much to bear. One wonders who paid for this book to be written. The publisher is Sentinel, a conservative imprint of Penguin Random House established in 2003.
Scott Walker was responsible for the passing of Act 10 in Wisconsin which increased the contribution from public employees to pension and health care, limited their right to collectively bargain for wages, and eliminated the requirement that beneficiaries of union bargaining pay dues. Police and firefighters were not included as public sector employees in any restriction to rights. Walker proposed the legislation immediately after taking office in 2011, with no explanation and no warning.
Later, Walker would write in this book that even his wife Tonette had no idea what he was trying to accomplish. He asked himself, “If even my own wife didn’t see why we needed to change collective bargaining, how could I expect the voters of Wisconsin to see it? I was obviously doing a lousy job of explaining our reforms.” This man is dead serious.
“Before we had introduced Act 10, we had methodically gone through every aspect of our plan of action with my cabinet. We had the legislative plan mapped out to the smallest detail. We had prepared for every contingency—even down to having the National Guard at the ready to take over state prisons if correction officers went on strike. But the one thing we had not done was to prepare the people of Wisconsin for the changes we were about to enact.”This stunning admission that Walker considered force before explanations is terrifying. And I don't like the use of "we" because it deflects initiative and blame. The public unions were willing to increase contributions to pensions and benefits and would have discussed loopholes in the system. Even the Democratic stronghold of Rahm Emanuel’s Illinois required adjustments to excessive and unfair overtime payments, among other collectively-bargained agreements that had gotten out of hand. It sometimes happens in the best-intentioned agreements. They need adjusting, not wholesale elimination.
Walker kept repeating the mantra that jobs had increased in his state after Act 10, but to my knowledge he never asked himself whether the jobs were good jobs with wages high enough to sustain families and pay taxes. Did he replace higher-paying jobs with lower-paying jobs? “I knew I had done the right thing, but I had not taken the time to explain why it was the right thing to do….Tonette is an excellent political barometer for me because she is like a lot of Wisconsin voters…” This is a real political animal at work, with a range of opinions coming to him from the far reaches of his bedroom.
Then the argument changes: “For some, it’s difficult to change. As the American Enterprise Institute’s Rick Hess points out, ‘It’s really hard for Pan Am or TWA to just turn into JetBlue’… That’s why charter schools are still important. They give innovators a chance to start the educational equivalents of JetBlue.” There is too much here to unpack & argue with—we are being hit from every direction with ink in a fan. We really need to debrief these folks and figure out what their real problem is with public schools. I think I know but would like to hear it from them. I believe they want to obscure the reasons for their support of charter schools because they know we cannot support them…it just isn’t teacher’s salaries. I think Jane Mayer gave us the explanation in her book Dark Money: indoctrination.
Six weeks before his recall election in June 2012, a year and a half after he took office, Walker went to Illinois. “This election is way bigger than me,” he said, and I think that is probably true. Lots of money and support—outside money and support—was riding on his ability to show that breaking the unions and furthering the cause of charter schools made a difference in a formerly Democratic stronghold.
“Without the recall, I would never have had the opportunity to campaign across the state to defend our record. I would never have had a reason to air television ads across the state explaining the success of our reforms…It just goes to show that the extremism of your opponents is often your greatest weapon in the fight for what is right.”Let’s concede that last one. And give him a fight he will never forget.
November 22, 2013
Well written and clear recounting of perhaps the most significant political events ever originating from Wisconsin politics. The common sense accessible writing makes reading and understanding a complex paradigm shift in political sentiment by the Wisconsin electorate a series of "ah ha moments" as background is added to the public struggle.
Perhaps even more importantly the distillation into guiding principles - a list of moral guidelines proven to succeed - principles that should be read and taken to heart by every politician who intents to be true to the public trust placed in their actions by the virtue of public election.
The importance of facing great enough problems to allow for solutions reaching into the bowels of the causes, rather than palliative fixes tweaking only symptoms, is another key lesson to take away from this book.
Core values - be decent, be fair, keep it professional and most importantly have faith in God - should reach across both sides of the isle, and are a reminder that in the end we serve together differing on perhaps the details but unified in the goals of doing the best for the people. Recognizing the shared goal is a true statement of "hope."
Recommended read whatever your political preferences are.
Perhaps even more importantly the distillation into guiding principles - a list of moral guidelines proven to succeed - principles that should be read and taken to heart by every politician who intents to be true to the public trust placed in their actions by the virtue of public election.
The importance of facing great enough problems to allow for solutions reaching into the bowels of the causes, rather than palliative fixes tweaking only symptoms, is another key lesson to take away from this book.
Core values - be decent, be fair, keep it professional and most importantly have faith in God - should reach across both sides of the isle, and are a reminder that in the end we serve together differing on perhaps the details but unified in the goals of doing the best for the people. Recognizing the shared goal is a true statement of "hope."
Recommended read whatever your political preferences are.
July 23, 2024
(Not sure I'd give it 5 stars if I was rating it today. Maybe 3 stars rounded up to 4 for the Wisconsin connection.)
I challenged myself in 2024 to re-read the books that impacted me most in my 20s.
In many ways, I came of age politically with Act 10. I worked to get Scott Walker elected governor as a 17-year-old and was active in Wisconsin politics from roughly 2014 to 2020. Much of what is described in this book I heard about from my family or experienced first-hand.
At the same time, this book is already 11 years old and it feels like it. It is a victory lap for a race remembered only dimly. Possibly an "I'm running for president" book (and we all know how well that went.) It follows the expected beats for these type of political works and quotes the familiar Republican favorites.
I guess what I am trying to say is that while the content described in the book impacted my 20s, I can't really say the book itself made that big of a difference.
I enjoyed my re-read. There were a couple good takeaways and some interesting lessons in the fight for Act 10. Walker highlights a few at the end I liked: "A big crisis is a chance to do big things." And "In times of crisis, people are looking for hope." And "In times of crisis, [voters] want leadership." But most of those are quotes you could find in your run of the mill political memoir. It was familiarity with the players that made this one stick out to me.
I challenged myself in 2024 to re-read the books that impacted me most in my 20s.
In many ways, I came of age politically with Act 10. I worked to get Scott Walker elected governor as a 17-year-old and was active in Wisconsin politics from roughly 2014 to 2020. Much of what is described in this book I heard about from my family or experienced first-hand.
At the same time, this book is already 11 years old and it feels like it. It is a victory lap for a race remembered only dimly. Possibly an "I'm running for president" book (and we all know how well that went.) It follows the expected beats for these type of political works and quotes the familiar Republican favorites.
I guess what I am trying to say is that while the content described in the book impacted my 20s, I can't really say the book itself made that big of a difference.
I enjoyed my re-read. There were a couple good takeaways and some interesting lessons in the fight for Act 10. Walker highlights a few at the end I liked: "A big crisis is a chance to do big things." And "In times of crisis, people are looking for hope." And "In times of crisis, [voters] want leadership." But most of those are quotes you could find in your run of the mill political memoir. It was familiarity with the players that made this one stick out to me.
April 6, 2014
This is considered non fiction? Maybe to somebody who thinks The Great Pumpkin really exists, but not someone who has the gift of rational thought. I have been posting my updates on the Kindle edition.
September 29, 2015
As a proud member of a teachers' union, I came into this book with some very strong feelings about Walker and the complete annihilation his policies have wreaked on labor in Wisconsin. Perhaps not surprisingly, his book did nothing to change my low opinion of him, but it did give me a clearer understanding of his thinking and of the intricacies of Act 10.
Walker's basic explanation for why he gutted collective bargaining in Wisconsin is that it was the only way he could get the state out of its fiscal crisis that he squarely blames on his (Democratic) predecessor. Wisconsin was broke, therefore the following (in his view) had to be done:
1) Enact major cuts to education and local governments. He himself admits the education cuts were the biggest in the history of the state and is fully aware of their devastating consequences.
2) Annihilate unions' collective bargaining rights, so that school districts and local governments could significantly increase employee contributions to pensions and health care AND be able to avoid standard contract negotiations that would allow for pay increases and various other things. Throughout the book he euphemistically refers to these as the "tools" he is giving to districts and local governments to use in order to figure out how to deal with the lack of funding they suddenly must contend with.
He repeatedly states that this is the ONLY option he could use in dealing with the economic crisis, completely leaving off the table even mild tax increases to avoid budgetary cuts. In fact, and he only mentions this once in passing, he actually has the audacity to enact tax cuts on "job creators" (i.e., the wealthy). Again, he CUTS TAXES FOR THE WEALTHY, while at the same time CUTS FUNDING FOR MIDDLE CLASS JOBS.
Walker pays a lot of lip service to union employees, bringing up again and again the enormous respect he has for workers in the public sector, which is absolutely laughable. Funny way of showing that respect, Walker--you respect them so much that you not only slash $1 billion dollars of their funding, but you also strip them of their right to collectively bargain. In fact, he seems almost surprised at points when discussing the wrath of the protesters who occupied the capitol building in Madison, that they could even feel so angry at him when he has said nothing but nice things about them and how hard they work. Ha.
One of the more devastating results to unions of Act 10 was the paycheck provision which allowed union workers to opt out of annual dues. Many employees chose not to pay these union dues to help offset the required increases in employee contributions to health care and pensions that they now have to make, and the result is that unions are crippled financially. Throughout the book, Walker stresses the fact that his cuts and attacks on collective bargaining rights allow him to avoid layoffs, but he gleefully gloats about the number of union staff that are forced to be laid off after the paycheck provision guts their funding. It is truly disgusting.
The book's content and Walker's justifications of Act 10 would be enough in my book to warrant a low rating. But the writing itself is pretty terrible too, especially the first half. He goes back in time and jumps ahead so much that it's a little hard to follow at times, and his circular writing style makes for a lot of repetition of the same information. Frequently, I had the thought, "Didn't I already read this passage?" because of how much he repeats stuff. His attempts at humor also fall painfully flat in a number of places, which make for awkward and stilted writing.
Other things of note:
- There is a teacher, Ms. Sampson, whom he brings up repeatedly when discussing the so-called evils of teacher unions. Basically, she was a first-year teacher who won an award (something like "Outstanding First-Year English Teacher") who was laid off due to the seniority system of "last hired, first fired." She is quoted in the book as pretty much agreeing with Walker's attacks on the teachers' unions, and later is brought up again when Walker mentions that she is later hired by his kids' high school and in fact becomes his son's teacher. But here's the thing--this poster girl has since come around and denounced her original position on Act 10 and in fact, has asked Walker repeatedly (even through media sources) to stop using her name and story as campaign propaganda. Her request first was made before the book was written, yet Walker still chose to include her AGAINST HER WISHES. And she was his son's own teacher, and he still refused to abide by her request! Think about that.
- Yes, I know he's a Republican, but there is a seriously creepy amount of cult-of-Reagan worship throughout the book. At one point, he even describes how every year he throws a party on Reagan's birthday and only serves Reagan's favorite foods. At times, his efforts to thrust Reagan on to a pedestal are ridiculous--like, did you know that Reagan's handling of the air traffic controllers' strike won us the Cold War? The fawning, the adoration, the complete adherence to the idea of Reagan's infallibility reminded me of books and documentaries I've read/seen of North Korea's Dear Leaders. It just felt really weird and came across as kind of gross in its effusiveness.
Needless to say, I am pretty glad he is out so soon of the 2016 race.
Walker's basic explanation for why he gutted collective bargaining in Wisconsin is that it was the only way he could get the state out of its fiscal crisis that he squarely blames on his (Democratic) predecessor. Wisconsin was broke, therefore the following (in his view) had to be done:
1) Enact major cuts to education and local governments. He himself admits the education cuts were the biggest in the history of the state and is fully aware of their devastating consequences.
2) Annihilate unions' collective bargaining rights, so that school districts and local governments could significantly increase employee contributions to pensions and health care AND be able to avoid standard contract negotiations that would allow for pay increases and various other things. Throughout the book he euphemistically refers to these as the "tools" he is giving to districts and local governments to use in order to figure out how to deal with the lack of funding they suddenly must contend with.
He repeatedly states that this is the ONLY option he could use in dealing with the economic crisis, completely leaving off the table even mild tax increases to avoid budgetary cuts. In fact, and he only mentions this once in passing, he actually has the audacity to enact tax cuts on "job creators" (i.e., the wealthy). Again, he CUTS TAXES FOR THE WEALTHY, while at the same time CUTS FUNDING FOR MIDDLE CLASS JOBS.
Walker pays a lot of lip service to union employees, bringing up again and again the enormous respect he has for workers in the public sector, which is absolutely laughable. Funny way of showing that respect, Walker--you respect them so much that you not only slash $1 billion dollars of their funding, but you also strip them of their right to collectively bargain. In fact, he seems almost surprised at points when discussing the wrath of the protesters who occupied the capitol building in Madison, that they could even feel so angry at him when he has said nothing but nice things about them and how hard they work. Ha.
One of the more devastating results to unions of Act 10 was the paycheck provision which allowed union workers to opt out of annual dues. Many employees chose not to pay these union dues to help offset the required increases in employee contributions to health care and pensions that they now have to make, and the result is that unions are crippled financially. Throughout the book, Walker stresses the fact that his cuts and attacks on collective bargaining rights allow him to avoid layoffs, but he gleefully gloats about the number of union staff that are forced to be laid off after the paycheck provision guts their funding. It is truly disgusting.
The book's content and Walker's justifications of Act 10 would be enough in my book to warrant a low rating. But the writing itself is pretty terrible too, especially the first half. He goes back in time and jumps ahead so much that it's a little hard to follow at times, and his circular writing style makes for a lot of repetition of the same information. Frequently, I had the thought, "Didn't I already read this passage?" because of how much he repeats stuff. His attempts at humor also fall painfully flat in a number of places, which make for awkward and stilted writing.
Other things of note:
- There is a teacher, Ms. Sampson, whom he brings up repeatedly when discussing the so-called evils of teacher unions. Basically, she was a first-year teacher who won an award (something like "Outstanding First-Year English Teacher") who was laid off due to the seniority system of "last hired, first fired." She is quoted in the book as pretty much agreeing with Walker's attacks on the teachers' unions, and later is brought up again when Walker mentions that she is later hired by his kids' high school and in fact becomes his son's teacher. But here's the thing--this poster girl has since come around and denounced her original position on Act 10 and in fact, has asked Walker repeatedly (even through media sources) to stop using her name and story as campaign propaganda. Her request first was made before the book was written, yet Walker still chose to include her AGAINST HER WISHES. And she was his son's own teacher, and he still refused to abide by her request! Think about that.
- Yes, I know he's a Republican, but there is a seriously creepy amount of cult-of-Reagan worship throughout the book. At one point, he even describes how every year he throws a party on Reagan's birthday and only serves Reagan's favorite foods. At times, his efforts to thrust Reagan on to a pedestal are ridiculous--like, did you know that Reagan's handling of the air traffic controllers' strike won us the Cold War? The fawning, the adoration, the complete adherence to the idea of Reagan's infallibility reminded me of books and documentaries I've read/seen of North Korea's Dear Leaders. It just felt really weird and came across as kind of gross in its effusiveness.
Needless to say, I am pretty glad he is out so soon of the 2016 race.
August 3, 2016
Book Lust
This one is going to be difficult. I don’t hide the fact that I’m liberal, nor do I pretend to like my state’s governor. In fact, during the lead-up to the 2012 recall election, I was campaigning from Lithuania as best I could. But I also believe that gathering evidence that only reaffirms my political beliefs is not going to help move my state forward. So with no little amount of trepidation, I picked up Scott Walker’s book from the library (because as fair as I try to be, no way was I going to buy it).
It’s really not so bad, and maybe I should thank his ghost-writer for that, former speech writer for George W., Marc Thiessen. The book humanizes Walker and actually made me consider the 2011 collective bargaining fiasco in a different light, with a little more sympathy for his side. There is, of course, plenty of bias – I know the facts have been spun by both sides, so I can’t only blame Walker for doing it.
My problem comes when he suggests the massive protests in Madison were organized by the “union bosses.” The distress I saw on the faces of the educators I knew – college professors or public middle school teachers – said clearly that they weren’t being directed by any union thugs. This was a real battle against ordinary people, not unions. Whether the battle was fair is up to your politics. The title itself, Unintimidated, is a little silly to me. The book practically screams, “Those big mean unions tried to scare us!” Who was he afraid of? The college students or the public school teachers? I don’t doubt that he got death threats, but he had the money and manpower to protect himself.
I could go on ad nauseam, but I’m not here to talk about politics. The point is, the book is a good summary of Wisconsin’s battle regarding collective bargaining and public employee benefits, albeit with plenty of conservative spin.
Verdict:
It’s not terrible. It gave me some sympathy for a man I really, really dislike, while reinforcing the fact that I will do whatever I can to make sure he is not re-elected in November. The book could serve as an introduction to non-Wisconsinites into the collective bargaining debate that has spread across the country.
This one is going to be difficult. I don’t hide the fact that I’m liberal, nor do I pretend to like my state’s governor. In fact, during the lead-up to the 2012 recall election, I was campaigning from Lithuania as best I could. But I also believe that gathering evidence that only reaffirms my political beliefs is not going to help move my state forward. So with no little amount of trepidation, I picked up Scott Walker’s book from the library (because as fair as I try to be, no way was I going to buy it).
It’s really not so bad, and maybe I should thank his ghost-writer for that, former speech writer for George W., Marc Thiessen. The book humanizes Walker and actually made me consider the 2011 collective bargaining fiasco in a different light, with a little more sympathy for his side. There is, of course, plenty of bias – I know the facts have been spun by both sides, so I can’t only blame Walker for doing it.
My problem comes when he suggests the massive protests in Madison were organized by the “union bosses.” The distress I saw on the faces of the educators I knew – college professors or public middle school teachers – said clearly that they weren’t being directed by any union thugs. This was a real battle against ordinary people, not unions. Whether the battle was fair is up to your politics. The title itself, Unintimidated, is a little silly to me. The book practically screams, “Those big mean unions tried to scare us!” Who was he afraid of? The college students or the public school teachers? I don’t doubt that he got death threats, but he had the money and manpower to protect himself.
I could go on ad nauseam, but I’m not here to talk about politics. The point is, the book is a good summary of Wisconsin’s battle regarding collective bargaining and public employee benefits, albeit with plenty of conservative spin.
Verdict:
It’s not terrible. It gave me some sympathy for a man I really, really dislike, while reinforcing the fact that I will do whatever I can to make sure he is not re-elected in November. The book could serve as an introduction to non-Wisconsinites into the collective bargaining debate that has spread across the country.
April 23, 2014
I loved this book on several levels! I loved the simplicity with which it was presented, I loved the humility and I loved the happy ending. I am proud to be a lifelong resident of the Great State of Wisconsin ( I was born in Green Bay more years ago than I care to admit ) and the way these events turned out make me even prouder of my Governor! While I was well aware of much of what was happening in Madison and, unfortunately, I am acquainted with some misguided individuals who participated in the protests against the enactment of Act 10, I had not known the extent to which they were willing to stoop. I am disgusted by most of the things described in the book but give so much Governor Walker and his Republican counterparts that had the courage to do what was right at their own personal expense and the expense of their families. This is what leadership is about and I would love to see Scott Walker on a presidential ticket!!! I voted for him twice for one term and I will vote for him again! Forward!
March 23, 2015
This book is garbage. Scott Walker is not an honest man and this book focuses on how he duped Wisconsin residents into ignoring the many ways in which he passed ridiculous budget cuts at the cost of women and children throughout the state.
January 2, 2014
Thoroughly enjoyed it! I love a story with a happy ending, and Unintimidated does not disappoint with everyone in Wisconsin living happily ever after! Well done Governor Walker and Thank You!
January 9, 2014
This is a fantastic book. Scott Walker is the governor of WI. In 2011, Walker faced a firestorm when he took on the public service unions in his state.
Let me start from the end.
This is a political book, so after reading it, I decided to do some due diligence. Was Scott Walker full of crap? To answer this, I invested about half an hour in Amazon reviews, Goodreads reviews, and google. Google led me to a site called Politifact which listed a couple-a dings, like how Scott Walker left college, etc. There was nothing of real substance contradicting Walker's account. Overall, Walker's book is highly rated on Amazon (4 stars) and Goodreads (3.67). I did see, however, a significant number of negative reviews that contained only leftie vitriol. Indeed, this reaction affirms the tone described in Scott Walker's book.
So, it didn't take too long to conclude - Scott Walker is NOT full of crap. His story is legit.
Walker's ghost writer, Marc Thiessen, was a speech writer for W, so the book is very well-written. And the story is riveting and flipping unbelievable. Walker's proposal to eliminate collective bargaining for public service unions in Wisconsin was met by a campaign of intimidation and blind rage by leftie unions. Walker and other repub pols were surrounded, yelled at, spit on, followed, etc. Protestors took over the state capital in Madison. Union leaders and protestors brought their hatred all the way to the homes of legislators and even involved Walker's wife and children. Read the book!
I was most impressed with two things. First, Walker's reforms were implemented and had an immediate positive impact on his state. Second, I truly admired Scott Walker's response to all the abuse heaped upon him during this trial. A religious guy, Walker, for the most part, turned the other cheek. He never stooped to the level of those against him.
There are too many stories, too much to tell. I could go on and on. Read the book! I'll pick one story for you. School choice is near and dear to my heart, so here we go...
QOTD
Catch that? Scott Walker sends HIS kids to public school. President Obama, Education czar Arne Duncan, and Mayor Rahmie DO NOT. Maybe if the Obama teens attended public schools, President Obama could muster a fraction of Scott Walker's political courage on just this one issue, education, and America's future would be much brighter. But that hasn't happened.
We don't have a Scott Walker in Illinois. IL Gov Pat Quinn and our dem legislators casually raised the state income tax from 3% to 5%. Seemingly a heartbeat later, Quinn announced that paying for public employee pensions and health care was still at a crisis level. It's amazing to see the impact that one man, one leader, can have. We sorely need the determination and courage of a Scott Walker here in Illinois.
Last word. This is a good read. I have great admiration for the political courage and leadership shown by WI governor Scott Walker.
Let me start from the end.
This is a political book, so after reading it, I decided to do some due diligence. Was Scott Walker full of crap? To answer this, I invested about half an hour in Amazon reviews, Goodreads reviews, and google. Google led me to a site called Politifact which listed a couple-a dings, like how Scott Walker left college, etc. There was nothing of real substance contradicting Walker's account. Overall, Walker's book is highly rated on Amazon (4 stars) and Goodreads (3.67). I did see, however, a significant number of negative reviews that contained only leftie vitriol. Indeed, this reaction affirms the tone described in Scott Walker's book.
So, it didn't take too long to conclude - Scott Walker is NOT full of crap. His story is legit.
Walker's ghost writer, Marc Thiessen, was a speech writer for W, so the book is very well-written. And the story is riveting and flipping unbelievable. Walker's proposal to eliminate collective bargaining for public service unions in Wisconsin was met by a campaign of intimidation and blind rage by leftie unions. Walker and other repub pols were surrounded, yelled at, spit on, followed, etc. Protestors took over the state capital in Madison. Union leaders and protestors brought their hatred all the way to the homes of legislators and even involved Walker's wife and children. Read the book!
I was most impressed with two things. First, Walker's reforms were implemented and had an immediate positive impact on his state. Second, I truly admired Scott Walker's response to all the abuse heaped upon him during this trial. A religious guy, Walker, for the most part, turned the other cheek. He never stooped to the level of those against him.
There are too many stories, too much to tell. I could go on and on. Read the book! I'll pick one story for you. School choice is near and dear to my heart, so here we go...
QOTD
Our reforms made Wisconsin's public schools better places to learn. That is important to me not just as a governor but as a father. Both my sons, Matt and Alex, attended traditional public schools - as do my nieces today. So for me, Act 10 was not simply about saving money; it was also about improving education for my kids, my nieces, and all of the other children across Wisconsin.
- Scott Walker, Unintimidated
Catch that? Scott Walker sends HIS kids to public school. President Obama, Education czar Arne Duncan, and Mayor Rahmie DO NOT. Maybe if the Obama teens attended public schools, President Obama could muster a fraction of Scott Walker's political courage on just this one issue, education, and America's future would be much brighter. But that hasn't happened.
We don't have a Scott Walker in Illinois. IL Gov Pat Quinn and our dem legislators casually raised the state income tax from 3% to 5%. Seemingly a heartbeat later, Quinn announced that paying for public employee pensions and health care was still at a crisis level. It's amazing to see the impact that one man, one leader, can have. We sorely need the determination and courage of a Scott Walker here in Illinois.
Last word. This is a good read. I have great admiration for the political courage and leadership shown by WI governor Scott Walker.
March 25, 2014
Scott Walker must be America’s best kept secret. How often in the past four years has the main stream media reported on the monstrous economic turnaround in Wisconsin? As the state’s chief executive reported in his 2013 state of the state address, when Walker was first elected governor, “Wisconsin was facing a $3.6 billion budget deficit.” Spiraling property taxes had risen 27 percent in a decade and the jobless rate was 7.8 percent. Two years after Walker’s inauguration, “Wisconsin (had) a $342 million budget surplus.” Property taxes dropped in each of those two years and the unemployment rate was cut by 1.1 percent. Why don’t the other 49 states know this story? Better yet, why aren’t they following in Wisconsin’s footsteps? Even better, why isn’t the federal government operating from the Walker playbook?
“Unintimidated” is the blow-by-blow account of how Walker led Wisconsin out of the financial wilderness. Walker and his co-writer Marc Thiessen include fourteen lessons for “conservatives . . . that can help (them) win the battle for America.” Chapter 26, the most important entry in this journal, includes advice on dealing with poll numbers while sticking to principles, doing big things in a big crisis, reforming entitlements, being bold, wining the center with leadership, championing the vulnerable, being decent, owning your mistakes, continuous reformation, being relevant and wining the fairness battle.
It’s amazing that Walker is rarely mentioned even by conservative pundits as a potential 2016 presidential candidate. Or, if he is, he’s immediately dismissed. But, maybe that’s a good thing. Perhaps we should all move to Wisconsin just to enjoy the Walker reformation. You should come away from this success story convinced that you’ve just seen the USA’s 21st century Abraham Lincoln in action.
“Unintimidated” is the blow-by-blow account of how Walker led Wisconsin out of the financial wilderness. Walker and his co-writer Marc Thiessen include fourteen lessons for “conservatives . . . that can help (them) win the battle for America.” Chapter 26, the most important entry in this journal, includes advice on dealing with poll numbers while sticking to principles, doing big things in a big crisis, reforming entitlements, being bold, wining the center with leadership, championing the vulnerable, being decent, owning your mistakes, continuous reformation, being relevant and wining the fairness battle.
It’s amazing that Walker is rarely mentioned even by conservative pundits as a potential 2016 presidential candidate. Or, if he is, he’s immediately dismissed. But, maybe that’s a good thing. Perhaps we should all move to Wisconsin just to enjoy the Walker reformation. You should come away from this success story convinced that you’ve just seen the USA’s 21st century Abraham Lincoln in action.
February 3, 2016
I found this book very interesting. The book was mostly about Walker's struggle to get the State of Wisconsin out from under the record deficits brought on during the term of his predecessor, Governor Doyle. Walker also talks about the recall elections, including his own which he won handily. There is a lot of talk of budgets, economics, and the riotous reactions to his changes. Anyone who paid attention to the news is familiar with the story but this is the story straight from Walker, and it touches on some things that the press didn't cover. The controversial reforms did end up saving WI financially. Walker became a very divisive character in State and National politics, and depending on what side of the aisle you are on your opinion can vary greatly. It was interesting to read how the private sector workers gradually came around to his plan, and how he managed to garner 11% of the votes of Obama supporters during his recall election. Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
April 24, 2014
I loved this book. I loved the clarity of it. The common sense. The courage of Scott Walker and his family. It saddened me to learn of all the horrific events that we the people were kept in the dark about during our state capitol's occupation but I have even more respect for Governor Walker for not making this book all about how horrible liberals are. It is respectful and matter of fact. I can't wait to vote for Scott Walker again! And again! On Wisconsin!
Read
December 29, 2013I try to make myself aware of all viewpoints to become an educated, informed citizen and I rarely ever quit reading a book before the end. But, I absolutely cannot read another page of this drivel. It is so full of his self-serving, deceptive and divisive idiocy that no one can hope to gain anything of value from reading it. Don't waste your time or money on this book.
December 21, 2014
Good book and explaining how unions ruin the prosperity of the country especially government unions.
Overall impression of Gov. Walker though is that he is an average politician and will not make it in the Nashville scene, partly because he implores his religion too often
Overall impression of Gov. Walker though is that he is an average politician and will not make it in the Nashville scene, partly because he implores his religion too often
January 18, 2014
I am glad he is our governor.
June 8, 2015
The view from Washington appears bleak with the reelection of President Obama, an unlikely Obamacare repeal, massive tax increases, and spiraling national debt. “Family income has plummeted, and more than three quarters of Americans are living from paycheck to paycheck.” A study found that our country’s citizens believe our economy has “undergone a permanent change” which is the “new normal.”
But beyond the Washington beltway, with many states—including Wisconsin and other states with Republican leadership—“…conservative reformers are winning elections and policy battles in state houses all over the country.” Only one incumbent GOP governor has lost a general election since 2007; the number of GOP governors has risen from twenty-one to thirty, just four short of a record; Republicans have gained 606 legislative seats—from 3,220 in 2008 to 3,826 in 2013; gains have brought control in twenty-eight state houses of representatives and twenty-nine state senates; four years ago Republicans controlled both the legislature and governorship in just eight states and now that number is twenty-three, including sixteen states that are veto-proof.
Thus, at the state level, the GOP appears to be thriving. Why? Governor Walker states, “In the states, we are focused on improving education, caring for the poor, reforming government, lowering taxes, fixing entitlements, reducing dependency, and creating jobs and opportunity for the unemployed.” Indiana, Louisiana, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Wisconsin are making the Reaganesque-type reforms which echo through Republican-led states, and there are countless other examples of reform.
Thanks to Walker’s leadership in Wisconsin, a $3.6 billion inherited deficit was turned into a $500 million surplus. Many teacher jobs were saved and education is improving through flexibility in administration. Property taxes decreased for the first time in over a decade. Unemployment has gone down and “…Wisconsin’s pension system is the only one in the country that is fully funded.” Clearly, Walker’s strong push for reform is working.
Governor Walker stated, “I firmly believe that the lessons we learned in Wisconsin can help conservatives win the fight for fiscal reform in Washington, D.C. and lead the way for greater prosperity for people all across America.” I fully agree, and I hope and pray that in 2016 Governor Walker will realize the presidency in order to lead the charge from pessimism to sustainable, sound optimism throughout America.
In 2002, Scott Walker was elected Milwaukee County Executive, the most Democratic-leaning county in the state. He was reelected three times, with bigger margins of victory each time. It was there that he learned of the perils of public unions. He stated, “I will never forget sitting at the conference table in my office across from…the head of ”…a union and “…explaining to him that without some of these modest changes we would have to lay off hundreds of workers…He looked me in the eye and said: ‘Go ahead and do it!’…I was stunned.” He stated that he didn’t care how many workers were laid off, he had no intention of giving up any benefits.
When the layoff notices went out, Walker was overcome with “…people streaming into his office, usually young workers in tears, pleading for their own job or that of a coworker.” The inflexibility of the union limited Walker’s ability to manage Milwaukee County and save the jobs of productive employees.
Walker makes a good point, “As conservatives, we believe that as many decisions as possible should be pushed down to the local level. This is not only a matter of efficiency, it is fundamental to our freedoms…For years, Americans have been presented with a false choice between raising taxes and cutting government services.” In a business, “…you don’t double the price of your product or cut its quality in half—at least not if you want to stay in business. You find ways to run your business more efficiently, and deliver a better product than your competitor at a lower cost.” Walker tried to do that as a county executive, but it was next to impossible with the obstructions of collective bargaining.
Collective bargaining “…denies hardworking taxpayers their ‘right’ to the efficient delivery of public services. It denies children their ‘right’ to a decent education. And it denies citizens their ‘right’ to a government that lives within its means…Rather than a right, collective bargaining has turned out to be an expensive entitlement.” These lessons at the local level were what taught Walker that a near-total statewide ban on collective bargaining could—and would—be the key to success in local and state government in Wisconsin.
Walker got advice from Indiana’s Governor Mitch Daniels, who had eliminated collective bargaining, saving “…buckets of money” but with the primary benefit of “flexibility to make state government run better.” Daniels advised Walker to go big, go bold; go fast; invest political capital; and never stop reforming. Indeed, Walker took Daniels’ advice. In Walker’s inaugural address, he quoted the Frugality Clause of Wisconsin’s constitution, approved in 1848, which states, “It is through frugality and moderation in government that we will see freedom and prosperity for our people.”
With the $3.6 billion budget deficit which he inherited, Walker faced grim prospects. States such as New York, California, and Connecticut were announcing layoffs to balance their budgets. Wisconsin could do the same, raise taxes and lay off teacher and workers. But Walker realized that this would take money from the poor, middle class workers, undermine education, and decimate government services. The unions would do this just to keep “…the automatic spigot of cash that was filling their union coffers.” Regarding his reforms, Walker explained, “We were not doing this to go after the unions…We were doing it to protect the schools.”
When Walker became governor he instituted the policy of meeting with Democratic leaders once a week, a practice he still continues, his office being open to individual members of either party. This reminds me of President Reagan and his open-door and across the political aisle policies, which are quite pointedly just the opposite of President Obama.
Walker presents some interesting facts. Most of the federal workers do not have collective bargaining and yet “…the average federal worker received total compensation 16 percent higher than the equivalent private sector worker.” I believe this disparity and our bloated federal government should be addressed—in a kind way that allows any displaced workers to receive outplacement services comparable to good citizen corporations.
When Walker assumed office he assessed his alternatives, and, fully aware of his inflexibility at the local level and Governor Daniels advice, he knew that with a Republican majority in both houses of the Wisconsin legislature, he could “…fix the whole system.” This was courageous, innovative, and the mark of a genuine leader. He faced a $3.6 billion budget deficit, property taxes that had gone up twenty-seven percent over the past ten years and were increasing every year, and the unemployment rate was 7.8 percent. In two years, he produced a $342 million surplus, lowered property taxes, and the unemployment rate was brought down to 6.7 percent. He also backed reforms that would allow schools throughout the state to be run like charter schools.
I won’t dwell on the protests that eventually led to a recall campaign. At one point the capitol building “…was packed wall-to-wall with protesters. They banged drums and blasted horns day and night, harassed and spat on lawmakers as they made their way through the capitol, and turned our historic rotunda into a theater of the absurd….Protestors carried signs comparing [Walker] to Hosni Mubarak…and Obama bin Laden. Others read ‘Death to tyrants,’ ‘Don’t retreat, reload,’ and ‘The only good Republican is a dead Republican.’” There were death threats and harassment directed toward Walker and his family, as well as to other Republican leaders and their families. The unions’ goal was clear: to intimidate the senators and strike fear into them. But their smash-mouth tactics had the opposite effect. The more the senators were heckled, harassed, cussed at, and spat upon, the more their resolve deepened. Those who might have been wavering became increasingly determined not to give in.
Act 10, which banned collective bargaining—except for wages for police and firefighters—passed and was signed into law by Walker. It opened the doors for Walker and the Republicans to enact extensive and positive reforms in state government and the schools. Additionally, Walker won his recall by a larger margin than his original election, due primarily because his reforms were working, and Wisconsin voters were disenchanted with both the rowdy protestors and the teachers who interrupted schools all over the state to congregate in the capitol.
He explained some of his education reforms, “We gave every public school administrator in Wisconsin the same freedom and flexibility that charter schools enjoy. They can now change the curriculum, expand the school day, reward good teachers, and get rid of failing ones—all without getting permission from (or dealing with grievances from) the teachers unions.”
Walker wrote, “The message of Wisconsin was not that the American people want fewer teachers, or police, or firefighters. The message of Wisconsin was that Americans want leadership. And in times of crisis, they don’t care if it is Democratic leadership or Republican leadership—they will stand with those who offer bold ideas and have the courage to take on the tough issues.” Walker demonstrated the type of courage, leadership, and boldly innovative ideas we desperately need on a national basis. This is why I fully support Walker in the 2016 presidential election—and why I encourage everyone else to do so as well.
As mentioned earlier, Walker took to heart the advice that he got from Indiana’s Governor Mitch Daniels, “Never stop reforming—always have the next big idea ready.” This is just the right approach needed by our national leaders—most especially our president—during this Innovation Age. Walker stated, “We plan to cut taxes over and over and over again until Wisconsin is leading the country in economic recovery.”
Walker explains, “Republicans need to reclaim their position as the party of upward mobility and opportunity for all. We need to lay out a positive vision for an America where every one of our citizens—no matter what their race, creed, origin, political party, or station in life—has a chance for a better future. We need to offer innovative, free market alternatives to the permanent welfare state.”
Walker describes overcoming obstacles as “fun…I enjoy finding creative solutions to difficult challenges.” We need this public servant in Washington, as our president. He goes on the say, “Republican governors are succeeding because they are focused on…” relevant challenges to our people. Walker makes a very good point; Republicans often offer logical and empirical data to try to win voters whereas Democrats tell heartbreaking stories to appeal to the emotions. He states Republicans must always win the fairness fight.
In describing the current political trends, Walker states, “Across America, citizens are casting their ballots for fiscal responsibility. Courageous political leaders are taking on the entrenched interests, delivering reforms relevant to the lives of their citizens, and showing that they will not be intimidated by threats and scare tactics.” Governor Scott Walker has proven that he is this type of leader, one who will attract the votes and approval of citizens all across the nation. Why? He’s a genuine, innovative, courageous, capable, and honest leader.
Unintimidated is an extremely well-written and exciting book because it demonstrates to me that help is on the way, hopefully and prayerfully in 2014, through Governor Walker’s reelection, and in the 2016 presidential election. Of course, this must include Republican leadership at all levels throughout the nation. We don’t want our federal, state, and local governments to go the way of long-time Democratically controlled Detroit and other cities, states and our federal government, where challenges are avoided and “kicked down the road” to be addressed during the next election. We need Scott Walker’s strength of leadership—now and tomorrow!
But beyond the Washington beltway, with many states—including Wisconsin and other states with Republican leadership—“…conservative reformers are winning elections and policy battles in state houses all over the country.” Only one incumbent GOP governor has lost a general election since 2007; the number of GOP governors has risen from twenty-one to thirty, just four short of a record; Republicans have gained 606 legislative seats—from 3,220 in 2008 to 3,826 in 2013; gains have brought control in twenty-eight state houses of representatives and twenty-nine state senates; four years ago Republicans controlled both the legislature and governorship in just eight states and now that number is twenty-three, including sixteen states that are veto-proof.
Thus, at the state level, the GOP appears to be thriving. Why? Governor Walker states, “In the states, we are focused on improving education, caring for the poor, reforming government, lowering taxes, fixing entitlements, reducing dependency, and creating jobs and opportunity for the unemployed.” Indiana, Louisiana, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Wisconsin are making the Reaganesque-type reforms which echo through Republican-led states, and there are countless other examples of reform.
Thanks to Walker’s leadership in Wisconsin, a $3.6 billion inherited deficit was turned into a $500 million surplus. Many teacher jobs were saved and education is improving through flexibility in administration. Property taxes decreased for the first time in over a decade. Unemployment has gone down and “…Wisconsin’s pension system is the only one in the country that is fully funded.” Clearly, Walker’s strong push for reform is working.
Governor Walker stated, “I firmly believe that the lessons we learned in Wisconsin can help conservatives win the fight for fiscal reform in Washington, D.C. and lead the way for greater prosperity for people all across America.” I fully agree, and I hope and pray that in 2016 Governor Walker will realize the presidency in order to lead the charge from pessimism to sustainable, sound optimism throughout America.
In 2002, Scott Walker was elected Milwaukee County Executive, the most Democratic-leaning county in the state. He was reelected three times, with bigger margins of victory each time. It was there that he learned of the perils of public unions. He stated, “I will never forget sitting at the conference table in my office across from…the head of ”…a union and “…explaining to him that without some of these modest changes we would have to lay off hundreds of workers…He looked me in the eye and said: ‘Go ahead and do it!’…I was stunned.” He stated that he didn’t care how many workers were laid off, he had no intention of giving up any benefits.
When the layoff notices went out, Walker was overcome with “…people streaming into his office, usually young workers in tears, pleading for their own job or that of a coworker.” The inflexibility of the union limited Walker’s ability to manage Milwaukee County and save the jobs of productive employees.
Walker makes a good point, “As conservatives, we believe that as many decisions as possible should be pushed down to the local level. This is not only a matter of efficiency, it is fundamental to our freedoms…For years, Americans have been presented with a false choice between raising taxes and cutting government services.” In a business, “…you don’t double the price of your product or cut its quality in half—at least not if you want to stay in business. You find ways to run your business more efficiently, and deliver a better product than your competitor at a lower cost.” Walker tried to do that as a county executive, but it was next to impossible with the obstructions of collective bargaining.
Collective bargaining “…denies hardworking taxpayers their ‘right’ to the efficient delivery of public services. It denies children their ‘right’ to a decent education. And it denies citizens their ‘right’ to a government that lives within its means…Rather than a right, collective bargaining has turned out to be an expensive entitlement.” These lessons at the local level were what taught Walker that a near-total statewide ban on collective bargaining could—and would—be the key to success in local and state government in Wisconsin.
Walker got advice from Indiana’s Governor Mitch Daniels, who had eliminated collective bargaining, saving “…buckets of money” but with the primary benefit of “flexibility to make state government run better.” Daniels advised Walker to go big, go bold; go fast; invest political capital; and never stop reforming. Indeed, Walker took Daniels’ advice. In Walker’s inaugural address, he quoted the Frugality Clause of Wisconsin’s constitution, approved in 1848, which states, “It is through frugality and moderation in government that we will see freedom and prosperity for our people.”
With the $3.6 billion budget deficit which he inherited, Walker faced grim prospects. States such as New York, California, and Connecticut were announcing layoffs to balance their budgets. Wisconsin could do the same, raise taxes and lay off teacher and workers. But Walker realized that this would take money from the poor, middle class workers, undermine education, and decimate government services. The unions would do this just to keep “…the automatic spigot of cash that was filling their union coffers.” Regarding his reforms, Walker explained, “We were not doing this to go after the unions…We were doing it to protect the schools.”
When Walker became governor he instituted the policy of meeting with Democratic leaders once a week, a practice he still continues, his office being open to individual members of either party. This reminds me of President Reagan and his open-door and across the political aisle policies, which are quite pointedly just the opposite of President Obama.
Walker presents some interesting facts. Most of the federal workers do not have collective bargaining and yet “…the average federal worker received total compensation 16 percent higher than the equivalent private sector worker.” I believe this disparity and our bloated federal government should be addressed—in a kind way that allows any displaced workers to receive outplacement services comparable to good citizen corporations.
When Walker assumed office he assessed his alternatives, and, fully aware of his inflexibility at the local level and Governor Daniels advice, he knew that with a Republican majority in both houses of the Wisconsin legislature, he could “…fix the whole system.” This was courageous, innovative, and the mark of a genuine leader. He faced a $3.6 billion budget deficit, property taxes that had gone up twenty-seven percent over the past ten years and were increasing every year, and the unemployment rate was 7.8 percent. In two years, he produced a $342 million surplus, lowered property taxes, and the unemployment rate was brought down to 6.7 percent. He also backed reforms that would allow schools throughout the state to be run like charter schools.
I won’t dwell on the protests that eventually led to a recall campaign. At one point the capitol building “…was packed wall-to-wall with protesters. They banged drums and blasted horns day and night, harassed and spat on lawmakers as they made their way through the capitol, and turned our historic rotunda into a theater of the absurd….Protestors carried signs comparing [Walker] to Hosni Mubarak…and Obama bin Laden. Others read ‘Death to tyrants,’ ‘Don’t retreat, reload,’ and ‘The only good Republican is a dead Republican.’” There were death threats and harassment directed toward Walker and his family, as well as to other Republican leaders and their families. The unions’ goal was clear: to intimidate the senators and strike fear into them. But their smash-mouth tactics had the opposite effect. The more the senators were heckled, harassed, cussed at, and spat upon, the more their resolve deepened. Those who might have been wavering became increasingly determined not to give in.
Act 10, which banned collective bargaining—except for wages for police and firefighters—passed and was signed into law by Walker. It opened the doors for Walker and the Republicans to enact extensive and positive reforms in state government and the schools. Additionally, Walker won his recall by a larger margin than his original election, due primarily because his reforms were working, and Wisconsin voters were disenchanted with both the rowdy protestors and the teachers who interrupted schools all over the state to congregate in the capitol.
He explained some of his education reforms, “We gave every public school administrator in Wisconsin the same freedom and flexibility that charter schools enjoy. They can now change the curriculum, expand the school day, reward good teachers, and get rid of failing ones—all without getting permission from (or dealing with grievances from) the teachers unions.”
Walker wrote, “The message of Wisconsin was not that the American people want fewer teachers, or police, or firefighters. The message of Wisconsin was that Americans want leadership. And in times of crisis, they don’t care if it is Democratic leadership or Republican leadership—they will stand with those who offer bold ideas and have the courage to take on the tough issues.” Walker demonstrated the type of courage, leadership, and boldly innovative ideas we desperately need on a national basis. This is why I fully support Walker in the 2016 presidential election—and why I encourage everyone else to do so as well.
As mentioned earlier, Walker took to heart the advice that he got from Indiana’s Governor Mitch Daniels, “Never stop reforming—always have the next big idea ready.” This is just the right approach needed by our national leaders—most especially our president—during this Innovation Age. Walker stated, “We plan to cut taxes over and over and over again until Wisconsin is leading the country in economic recovery.”
Walker explains, “Republicans need to reclaim their position as the party of upward mobility and opportunity for all. We need to lay out a positive vision for an America where every one of our citizens—no matter what their race, creed, origin, political party, or station in life—has a chance for a better future. We need to offer innovative, free market alternatives to the permanent welfare state.”
Walker describes overcoming obstacles as “fun…I enjoy finding creative solutions to difficult challenges.” We need this public servant in Washington, as our president. He goes on the say, “Republican governors are succeeding because they are focused on…” relevant challenges to our people. Walker makes a very good point; Republicans often offer logical and empirical data to try to win voters whereas Democrats tell heartbreaking stories to appeal to the emotions. He states Republicans must always win the fairness fight.
In describing the current political trends, Walker states, “Across America, citizens are casting their ballots for fiscal responsibility. Courageous political leaders are taking on the entrenched interests, delivering reforms relevant to the lives of their citizens, and showing that they will not be intimidated by threats and scare tactics.” Governor Scott Walker has proven that he is this type of leader, one who will attract the votes and approval of citizens all across the nation. Why? He’s a genuine, innovative, courageous, capable, and honest leader.
Unintimidated is an extremely well-written and exciting book because it demonstrates to me that help is on the way, hopefully and prayerfully in 2014, through Governor Walker’s reelection, and in the 2016 presidential election. Of course, this must include Republican leadership at all levels throughout the nation. We don’t want our federal, state, and local governments to go the way of long-time Democratically controlled Detroit and other cities, states and our federal government, where challenges are avoided and “kicked down the road” to be addressed during the next election. We need Scott Walker’s strength of leadership—now and tomorrow!
September 3, 2015
Unintimidated: A Governor’s Story and a Nation’s Challenge by Scott Walker
“Unintimidated" recounts how Governor Walker won the battle for control over Wisconsin, the reforms he put in place, the mistakes made, and the lessons learned. Governor Walker espouses bold conservative reforms that require courage to carry them through. This progressive-minded reviewer will illustrate as fairly as possible why this book is average to good. This forthright 289-page book includes twenty-six chapters, a conclusion, postscript, and an epilogue.
Positives:
1. A well-written, accessible book.
2. Insightful, candid look at how Governor Walker regained control of Wisconsin. Like him or not, it took courage and determination to implement his reforms.
3. Readers will gain an inside look from a governor’s perspective on how reforms take place. Whether you are a conservative or a progressive like me there is a lot to like and learn from this book.
4. The evolution of Scott Walker as a person and politician.
5. One of the best things about this book is the illustration of tackling difficult societal problems. “Laying off good workers was an agonizing experience, and it taught me an important lesson: Reforming collective bargaining was not just about saving money. It was not just about saving jobs. It was about making government work better for the people.”
6. Conservative philosophy in practice. Many examples shown. “As conservatives, we believe that as many decisions as possible should be pushed down to the local level.”
7. Makes perfectly clear the problems he had with collective bargaining. “Collective bargaining gives the union bosses the keys to the statehouse, city hall, and school. It allows them to effectively sit on both sides of the bargaining table when contracts are negotiated, while no one represents the interests of the taxpayers (whose money is at stake) or the children (whose education hangs in the balance). It is cronyism, plain and simple.”
8. Ironic and interesting history. “For most of American history, collective bargaining did not exist for government employees. Until 1959, when Wisconsin became the first state to allow collective bargaining for government workers, the pay, benefits, and working conditions of public employees were determined by the legislatures overseeing them as part of the regular budget process.”
9. Government by the numbers. “We were faced with two impending budget crises: In the short term, we had to close an immediate budget deficit of $137 million before the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2011. That meant we had to start cutting spending right away. And that was the easy part. The deficit for the biennial budget that started on July 1, 2011, was a whopping $3.6 billion—one of the largest per capita deficits in the country.”
10. The inspiration behind Governor Walker’s approach. The three keys. “Mitch gave me some advice: First, he said, whatever you decide to do, go big, go bold, and strike fast. Second, he told me to remember that political capital is not something you spend, it’s something you invest—and properly invested, it brings a return. Third, he said; always have that next big idea ready. Never stop reforming.”
11. The key elements of Act 10, the proposal that would give Governor Walker the power to run Wisconsin. Find out the five key elements.
12. A fascinating look at the Occupy movement. The mistakes made and the lessons learned.
13. The fairness issue that compelled Wisconsinites to shift toward Governor Walker. “Our argument, by contrast, was simple and compelling: It was not fair that public workers enjoyed better benefits and better job security than their employers (the people of Wisconsin), who were losing their jobs and benefits in the worst economy in modern times.”
14. The value of competition illustrated. “In Wisconsin, many local school districts are required to buy their health insurance through the WEA Trust (which is the state teachers union’s company). When our bill passes, these school districts can opt to switch into the state plan and save $68 million per year. Those savings could be used to pay for more teachers and put more money into the classroom to help our kids.”
15. Find out the biggest mistake Governor Walker committed. The ebb and flow of politics.
16. Some of the collective bargaining abuses exposed. Like it or not, abuses from the left or right are wrong and hurt us all. “It was not fair that corrections officers used collective bargaining agreements to more than double their pay by gaming sick leave rules.”
17. One of the most important and compelling lessons learned. “The experience taught me an important lesson: Fairness is one of the strongest arguments we have in politics. Never, ever, cede it to the other side.”
18. Political tactics used. Art of negotiation.
19. The impact of Act 10. “In all, according to the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance, the overall cost of employee health insurance for K–12 schools decreased by about $91 million, or 24 percent, in the 2011–2012 school year, the first school year under Act 10.7 That figure is the result of insurance changes alone.” “The first day of school, and now the arrival of property tax bills, had changed the political dynamic in Wisconsin.”
20. A list of lessons learned that can be used for America.
Negatives:
1. Most of the book is about the governor battling collective bargaining. The topic of battling collective bargaining is not as interesting as other political topics.
2. Lack of visual supplements to complement narrative. Charts, diagrams can do more to make a point than just repetitive dialogue.
3. Some missed opportunities for clarity or enhance points. Though he makes his case in writing some points would be much better illustrated via charts. As an example, when making the claim that his philosophy of government is combat layoffs show it in a chart. Show the opposition’s approach and your approach via a table and the before and after. I find that approach to be much more compelling.
4. Misses the point on stimulus spending on infrastructure, sure the construction jobs would be short-term but the much needed failing infrastructure would improve to the benefit of all its citizens. I agree somewhat regarding the high-speed trail shortfalls falling on the state but existing infrastructure needs to be addressed.
5. “Only later did I realize that God had a plan for me with that episode.” Really? Does “His” plan include you as a president?
6. “Then, the longest serving Republican in the assembly, Representative Al Ott, asked everyone to pray. For about fifteen minutes, everyone held hands and asked God to give them guidance and to protect their families.” I would have walked out.
7. “We passed legislation to prevent voter fraud by requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls—a bill Republicans had worked to pass since 2003.” Is voter fraud really that big of a problem, or is this yet another attempt to make voting more difficult for impoverished citizens?
8. “In our 2011 budget, we stopped funding for Planned Parenthood.” Shame on you. Respect women’s reproductive rights.
9. “I signed it into law, transforming Wisconsin from one of the more restrictive to one of the freest states in the union when it comes to the right to bear arms.” Just what we need, more guns.
In summary, as right-wing books go this is average to slightly above average. The book focuses mainly on Governor Walker’s long and embattled quest to gain control for Wisconsin. I don’t know enough of what happened in Wisconsin from the union’s point of view to effectively present a balanced picture but the governor presented compelling points to justify his actions and was candid enough to share mistakes and lessons learned. The book is good on staying on point but it does so to a fault and may wear down the reader. Also, by focusing mainly on the main topic the reader is barely exposed to other hot-button issues. Average to good book, this progressive found some merits in this book.
Further right-wing suggestions that will help you get acquainted with their views: “A Time for Truth” by Ted Cruz, “American Dreams” by Marco Rubio, “Time to get Tough” by Donald J. Trump, “Rising to the Challenge” by Carly Fiorina, “Taking a Stand” by Rand Paul, “What I Believe” and “One Nation” by Ben Carson, “Immigration Wars” by Jeb Bush, “God, Guns, Grits, and Gravy” by Mike Huckabee, “Fed Up!” by Rick Perry, “Blue Collar Conservatives” by Rick Santorum, and “Our Lost Constitution” by Mike Lee.
“Unintimidated" recounts how Governor Walker won the battle for control over Wisconsin, the reforms he put in place, the mistakes made, and the lessons learned. Governor Walker espouses bold conservative reforms that require courage to carry them through. This progressive-minded reviewer will illustrate as fairly as possible why this book is average to good. This forthright 289-page book includes twenty-six chapters, a conclusion, postscript, and an epilogue.
Positives:
1. A well-written, accessible book.
2. Insightful, candid look at how Governor Walker regained control of Wisconsin. Like him or not, it took courage and determination to implement his reforms.
3. Readers will gain an inside look from a governor’s perspective on how reforms take place. Whether you are a conservative or a progressive like me there is a lot to like and learn from this book.
4. The evolution of Scott Walker as a person and politician.
5. One of the best things about this book is the illustration of tackling difficult societal problems. “Laying off good workers was an agonizing experience, and it taught me an important lesson: Reforming collective bargaining was not just about saving money. It was not just about saving jobs. It was about making government work better for the people.”
6. Conservative philosophy in practice. Many examples shown. “As conservatives, we believe that as many decisions as possible should be pushed down to the local level.”
7. Makes perfectly clear the problems he had with collective bargaining. “Collective bargaining gives the union bosses the keys to the statehouse, city hall, and school. It allows them to effectively sit on both sides of the bargaining table when contracts are negotiated, while no one represents the interests of the taxpayers (whose money is at stake) or the children (whose education hangs in the balance). It is cronyism, plain and simple.”
8. Ironic and interesting history. “For most of American history, collective bargaining did not exist for government employees. Until 1959, when Wisconsin became the first state to allow collective bargaining for government workers, the pay, benefits, and working conditions of public employees were determined by the legislatures overseeing them as part of the regular budget process.”
9. Government by the numbers. “We were faced with two impending budget crises: In the short term, we had to close an immediate budget deficit of $137 million before the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2011. That meant we had to start cutting spending right away. And that was the easy part. The deficit for the biennial budget that started on July 1, 2011, was a whopping $3.6 billion—one of the largest per capita deficits in the country.”
10. The inspiration behind Governor Walker’s approach. The three keys. “Mitch gave me some advice: First, he said, whatever you decide to do, go big, go bold, and strike fast. Second, he told me to remember that political capital is not something you spend, it’s something you invest—and properly invested, it brings a return. Third, he said; always have that next big idea ready. Never stop reforming.”
11. The key elements of Act 10, the proposal that would give Governor Walker the power to run Wisconsin. Find out the five key elements.
12. A fascinating look at the Occupy movement. The mistakes made and the lessons learned.
13. The fairness issue that compelled Wisconsinites to shift toward Governor Walker. “Our argument, by contrast, was simple and compelling: It was not fair that public workers enjoyed better benefits and better job security than their employers (the people of Wisconsin), who were losing their jobs and benefits in the worst economy in modern times.”
14. The value of competition illustrated. “In Wisconsin, many local school districts are required to buy their health insurance through the WEA Trust (which is the state teachers union’s company). When our bill passes, these school districts can opt to switch into the state plan and save $68 million per year. Those savings could be used to pay for more teachers and put more money into the classroom to help our kids.”
15. Find out the biggest mistake Governor Walker committed. The ebb and flow of politics.
16. Some of the collective bargaining abuses exposed. Like it or not, abuses from the left or right are wrong and hurt us all. “It was not fair that corrections officers used collective bargaining agreements to more than double their pay by gaming sick leave rules.”
17. One of the most important and compelling lessons learned. “The experience taught me an important lesson: Fairness is one of the strongest arguments we have in politics. Never, ever, cede it to the other side.”
18. Political tactics used. Art of negotiation.
19. The impact of Act 10. “In all, according to the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance, the overall cost of employee health insurance for K–12 schools decreased by about $91 million, or 24 percent, in the 2011–2012 school year, the first school year under Act 10.7 That figure is the result of insurance changes alone.” “The first day of school, and now the arrival of property tax bills, had changed the political dynamic in Wisconsin.”
20. A list of lessons learned that can be used for America.
Negatives:
1. Most of the book is about the governor battling collective bargaining. The topic of battling collective bargaining is not as interesting as other political topics.
2. Lack of visual supplements to complement narrative. Charts, diagrams can do more to make a point than just repetitive dialogue.
3. Some missed opportunities for clarity or enhance points. Though he makes his case in writing some points would be much better illustrated via charts. As an example, when making the claim that his philosophy of government is combat layoffs show it in a chart. Show the opposition’s approach and your approach via a table and the before and after. I find that approach to be much more compelling.
4. Misses the point on stimulus spending on infrastructure, sure the construction jobs would be short-term but the much needed failing infrastructure would improve to the benefit of all its citizens. I agree somewhat regarding the high-speed trail shortfalls falling on the state but existing infrastructure needs to be addressed.
5. “Only later did I realize that God had a plan for me with that episode.” Really? Does “His” plan include you as a president?
6. “Then, the longest serving Republican in the assembly, Representative Al Ott, asked everyone to pray. For about fifteen minutes, everyone held hands and asked God to give them guidance and to protect their families.” I would have walked out.
7. “We passed legislation to prevent voter fraud by requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls—a bill Republicans had worked to pass since 2003.” Is voter fraud really that big of a problem, or is this yet another attempt to make voting more difficult for impoverished citizens?
8. “In our 2011 budget, we stopped funding for Planned Parenthood.” Shame on you. Respect women’s reproductive rights.
9. “I signed it into law, transforming Wisconsin from one of the more restrictive to one of the freest states in the union when it comes to the right to bear arms.” Just what we need, more guns.
In summary, as right-wing books go this is average to slightly above average. The book focuses mainly on Governor Walker’s long and embattled quest to gain control for Wisconsin. I don’t know enough of what happened in Wisconsin from the union’s point of view to effectively present a balanced picture but the governor presented compelling points to justify his actions and was candid enough to share mistakes and lessons learned. The book is good on staying on point but it does so to a fault and may wear down the reader. Also, by focusing mainly on the main topic the reader is barely exposed to other hot-button issues. Average to good book, this progressive found some merits in this book.
Further right-wing suggestions that will help you get acquainted with their views: “A Time for Truth” by Ted Cruz, “American Dreams” by Marco Rubio, “Time to get Tough” by Donald J. Trump, “Rising to the Challenge” by Carly Fiorina, “Taking a Stand” by Rand Paul, “What I Believe” and “One Nation” by Ben Carson, “Immigration Wars” by Jeb Bush, “God, Guns, Grits, and Gravy” by Mike Huckabee, “Fed Up!” by Rick Perry, “Blue Collar Conservatives” by Rick Santorum, and “Our Lost Constitution” by Mike Lee.
August 15, 2018
I listened to this book on Audible, where it was read by Scott Walker himself. As a resident of the great state of Wisconsin, I appreciated Walker's detailed account of his early years as governor. From the controversial teacher's union policy he promoted to the occupation of the capital, he carefully recounts the challenges his administration faced and the results of his courageous policymaking. The book becomes somewhat repetitive towards the end, but I enjoyed listening to the first two-thirds. Walker is an honest, humble, and hardworking man who I am proud to call my governor. I felt like I got to know him both as a politician and a person through listening to him read his own book.
November 11, 2023
"THE" insider's view of Governor Walker's first year in office as Wisconsin's governor. Written with humility, I appreciate that he paints small pictures of several people who were instrumental in restructuring how Wisconsin was governed. There are some people who put it on the line in the face of constant threats and others who were real crumbs.
It gives one hope that Walker will again be called into public service. He should be running a cabinet department. He understands it's the citizens and taxpayers who are the clients.
Walker is a good narrator.
It gives one hope that Walker will again be called into public service. He should be running a cabinet department. He understands it's the citizens and taxpayers who are the clients.
Walker is a good narrator.
July 22, 2019
If you’re into the inside baseball of the legislative process I guess it’s ok. I got bored. And the end when he’s dissecting the Romney campaign of 2012 got a little tedious too in that it was obviously setting up for the 2016 primary run... all the mistakes he wouldn’t make. Felt both unnecessary and out of place in this particular book.
December 11, 2013
Please note that I borrowed this book from my local library.
Unintimidated by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker is more about Madison’s sweeping battle over government unions’ collective bargaining privileges than it is about Governor Walker himself, although as any good writer shows us, we see the characters’ positive and negative traits through their actions. Despite the worst the unions threw at him — and nobody could forget the coverage of protestors living in the capitol building — the repeal of collective bargaining gave municipal and county governments the tools to balance their budgets when Wisconsin’s fiscal reforms led to the widespread cutting of trickle-down funds from the state.
However, it’s unclear how the Madison battle would translate directly to the national level, as federal employees don’t have the privilege of collective bargaining. (And nobody believes this book is anything except Governor Walker’s 2016 résumé to U.S. voters, right?) To put it bluntly, should he run for president and be elected, what precisely would he reform to close the federal budget deficit and balance the budget without laying off federal employees or reducing services? The book doesn’t say and the only hint I found was the discussion of reforming welfare so recipients took part in skills training and extended their job hunting to continue receiving benefits. Any reforms further are left open. I don’t doubt he has ideas; it’s just that he hasn’t yet spelled out what those are.
That said, I was a fan of Governor Walker’s before reading his book and I remain a fan upon conclusion, although with some of my notions tempered. His handling of health care (actually health insurance) for Wisconsinites smacks a bit of self-congratulation. Yes, all Wisconsin residents below the poverty line are eligible for Medicaid, but everyone above that level without insurance is pushed onto the Healthcare.gov exchange for federal subsidies. Considering the way the exchange is working out, or not working out, I’m wondering if he’d like to rewrite that particular section of the book. Also note that letting a higher government subsidize those he cannot help directly would not be a winning strategy for a U.S. president.
A relevant point can be found in approval ratings. Governor Walker’s fell to 37%, roughly the same level as the current president’s after the last two months (since the October 1 rollout of Healthcare.gov). Governor Walker’s approval ratings recovered and he won the recall election; however, it remains to be seen how the White House will handle the challenges weighing it down. Of course the president is now term-limited; it’s also true that Governor Walker hasn’t been caught in flaming lies.
Finally, Unintimidated is not a long book; I finished it in two days. It’s written in a clear, simple style with lots of repetition of major points and phrases (so readers won’t forget them). Told thematically rather than strictly chronologically, it opens with the protestors overrunning the Madison capital building on March 9, 2011, then bounces back to Governor Walker’s time as a county executive from 2002 to 2010, showing his earlier unhappy interactions with unions before proceeding with the collective bargaining battle. It’s a good choice; read the opening chapter on Amazon. It’s much more effective than books that start, “I was born…”
Five strong stars.
Unintimidated by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker is more about Madison’s sweeping battle over government unions’ collective bargaining privileges than it is about Governor Walker himself, although as any good writer shows us, we see the characters’ positive and negative traits through their actions. Despite the worst the unions threw at him — and nobody could forget the coverage of protestors living in the capitol building — the repeal of collective bargaining gave municipal and county governments the tools to balance their budgets when Wisconsin’s fiscal reforms led to the widespread cutting of trickle-down funds from the state.
However, it’s unclear how the Madison battle would translate directly to the national level, as federal employees don’t have the privilege of collective bargaining. (And nobody believes this book is anything except Governor Walker’s 2016 résumé to U.S. voters, right?) To put it bluntly, should he run for president and be elected, what precisely would he reform to close the federal budget deficit and balance the budget without laying off federal employees or reducing services? The book doesn’t say and the only hint I found was the discussion of reforming welfare so recipients took part in skills training and extended their job hunting to continue receiving benefits. Any reforms further are left open. I don’t doubt he has ideas; it’s just that he hasn’t yet spelled out what those are.
That said, I was a fan of Governor Walker’s before reading his book and I remain a fan upon conclusion, although with some of my notions tempered. His handling of health care (actually health insurance) for Wisconsinites smacks a bit of self-congratulation. Yes, all Wisconsin residents below the poverty line are eligible for Medicaid, but everyone above that level without insurance is pushed onto the Healthcare.gov exchange for federal subsidies. Considering the way the exchange is working out, or not working out, I’m wondering if he’d like to rewrite that particular section of the book. Also note that letting a higher government subsidize those he cannot help directly would not be a winning strategy for a U.S. president.
A relevant point can be found in approval ratings. Governor Walker’s fell to 37%, roughly the same level as the current president’s after the last two months (since the October 1 rollout of Healthcare.gov). Governor Walker’s approval ratings recovered and he won the recall election; however, it remains to be seen how the White House will handle the challenges weighing it down. Of course the president is now term-limited; it’s also true that Governor Walker hasn’t been caught in flaming lies.
Finally, Unintimidated is not a long book; I finished it in two days. It’s written in a clear, simple style with lots of repetition of major points and phrases (so readers won’t forget them). Told thematically rather than strictly chronologically, it opens with the protestors overrunning the Madison capital building on March 9, 2011, then bounces back to Governor Walker’s time as a county executive from 2002 to 2010, showing his earlier unhappy interactions with unions before proceeding with the collective bargaining battle. It’s a good choice; read the opening chapter on Amazon. It’s much more effective than books that start, “I was born…”
Five strong stars.
March 2, 2017
Im a political junkie who happens to be conservative. So I really did enjoy this book. To remember the stupid things that the unions did, the downright violence and despicable acts that too many liberals did over this act. I never realized how corrupt the unions are. I come from a family that does like the unions and will have to look into more books over the politics of unions.
I enjoyed his more personal side of this book. Though I am not one of his voters and have not had to opportunity of know him like someone in his home state I would totally vote for him if he ran for office in my state.
Short read and I say go for it.
I enjoyed his more personal side of this book. Though I am not one of his voters and have not had to opportunity of know him like someone in his home state I would totally vote for him if he ran for office in my state.
Short read and I say go for it.
December 15, 2014
At the current time Wisconsin has a couple of dynamic young and thoughtful political figures including Paul Ryan and Scott Walker. This is Walker's story -mostly of his attempt to reform the role of public employee unions and the efforts to try to recall him (the only governor in US history to successfully resist a recall).
The book explains Walker's thinking about how to proceed from the $3,6 billion deficit left by his predecessor and how with all the reforms he achieved that the state ended up with a surplus. He also goes into great detail about the tactics of his opponents. (Which contributed to his victory.) Those details - both his effort and those of his opponents would be a compelling story by themselves but the book is more than that. He was able to recast the discussion of his proposals from one which took away the rights of collective bargaining to one of fairness. Wisconsin public employees still have the ability to collectively negotiate on salary but they have lost the ability to bargain on things like pension and health plan contributions. While the final agreement was no where close to what employees in the private sector bear, they are more realistic. At the same time he was able to enact "paycheck protection" which prevents the unions from taking involuntary contributions from employees.
Walker lays claim to being one of Reagan's successors. He lays out some very good ideas about how to advance conservative principles. He points out the errors in Romney's campaign but he also lays out some principles (including putting fairness and optimism into the mix) which every conservative should consider. Part of his message is what George Lakoff has tried to do on the left, a reframing of language for candidates.
One of the things I liked best about his book was his discussion of two principles that I have used in a talk I give about legislative process. The first is remember that you may need a current opponent tomorrow (as Jess Unruh once said "If I had killed all my enemies yesterday, i'd have no friends today." Walker points out that smash mouth politics are short-sighted. He also shows that by sticking to principles not personalities that you can achieve success.
He does not spend much time on the nonsense "John Doe" investigations that a partisan public prosecutor has tried to foist on the people - that is probably good - each time this yahoo has tried to mount an effort he has been slapped down by the courts (the prosecutor's attempts have been rebuffed at least once "with prejudice" giving you an idea of what the courts think of his efforts).
Based on this book alone, I think Walker will become a credible Presidential candidate, should he decide to run in 2016.
The book explains Walker's thinking about how to proceed from the $3,6 billion deficit left by his predecessor and how with all the reforms he achieved that the state ended up with a surplus. He also goes into great detail about the tactics of his opponents. (Which contributed to his victory.) Those details - both his effort and those of his opponents would be a compelling story by themselves but the book is more than that. He was able to recast the discussion of his proposals from one which took away the rights of collective bargaining to one of fairness. Wisconsin public employees still have the ability to collectively negotiate on salary but they have lost the ability to bargain on things like pension and health plan contributions. While the final agreement was no where close to what employees in the private sector bear, they are more realistic. At the same time he was able to enact "paycheck protection" which prevents the unions from taking involuntary contributions from employees.
Walker lays claim to being one of Reagan's successors. He lays out some very good ideas about how to advance conservative principles. He points out the errors in Romney's campaign but he also lays out some principles (including putting fairness and optimism into the mix) which every conservative should consider. Part of his message is what George Lakoff has tried to do on the left, a reframing of language for candidates.
One of the things I liked best about his book was his discussion of two principles that I have used in a talk I give about legislative process. The first is remember that you may need a current opponent tomorrow (as Jess Unruh once said "If I had killed all my enemies yesterday, i'd have no friends today." Walker points out that smash mouth politics are short-sighted. He also shows that by sticking to principles not personalities that you can achieve success.
He does not spend much time on the nonsense "John Doe" investigations that a partisan public prosecutor has tried to foist on the people - that is probably good - each time this yahoo has tried to mount an effort he has been slapped down by the courts (the prosecutor's attempts have been rebuffed at least once "with prejudice" giving you an idea of what the courts think of his efforts).
Based on this book alone, I think Walker will become a credible Presidential candidate, should he decide to run in 2016.
May 5, 2015
now 30 Gov +600 pay for pension 5.8% pay for healthcare 12.6%, not a move to center, 3 weeks 500-700 Jackson and race business cited in 1911, over the top union benefits union said to go ahead and lay off keeping benefits and rules, keep promises get results, Walker rise after spendy dem, eliminate collective bargaining via exec order by some, quick fast- invest in political capital-next idea, don’t accept stimulus with no annual operating funds, lame duck session took votes against people for union, thru frugality per WI constitution, tort reform, state aid equaled union dues and ins bonus, govt 16% higher than private, anniv and Reagan BD, threats to family life, capitol wear 3-5 years, 1Walker beats 14 runners, 3 weeks, teachers fake sick leave 13-20 doctors repercussion, unions rush to counter eliminating any real change thus had to include coll bargaining right, cronyism nego with union to perpetuate union, bus driver OT and prison more than mayor, power of humility burden of pride, why reform coll bargaining system broken, prank call Koch, John Maxwell, eliminate seniority 48M bonus on healthcare, never cede fairness debate, recess to gain public support, 61 hours public debate, union over reach, IN changed as well only 5% continued to pay dues, WI 2/3 drop, collec bargaining not a constitutional right, schools balanced budget first year, save on insurance and pension fully funded more programs no reductions raises, public given same flexibility as charters, lemon transfers in public, act10 improved education, results worked in first year then recall, OH reforms blocked not implemented, union bullying, must see reforms working, IL backwards Chicago closes black schools soft reforms drops 40 places while WI increases 24, message about future not past, reforms want leader, bold for jobs plan message, 24.8M cost to fight act10 incl 7Mpolice capitol, expand choice, entitlement reforms, focus on next generation, willing to nego/compromise but not on principles, reject false choices, reform not tweaks, center wants leadership immigrants want opportunity, eliminate corruption, what is fair or not fair, courage faith as Thatcher.
February 11, 2015
Scott Walker took over as Governor of the State of Wisconsin with 3.6 billion dollar budget deficit. He was told by his democratic State Senators and the Unions he had 2 choices to balance the budget. 1) raise taxes or 2) fire State employees. Walker recognized the false choices, and rather choose to reform the pension plans and benefits of State Employees. His solution was rational and simple (just asking State employees to pay 7.5% of their own pension and Health Insurance)--typical private employees pay 12-15%.
In 2011 Protestors filled the State Capitol. They urinated on the steps of the Govenors office. They threatened his family. The democratic state Senators fled the State to avoid voting and became heroes on the Left. The Governor was declared a "dead man Walker."
But the Governor began to make his case. He noted bus drivers that were making 125 k and other fraudulent government systems. He showed schools could improve if principals could fire poor teachers. He explained to the public how without collective bargaining the schools could negotiate for cheaper better health insurance and save millions--and pour it back into the schools. And slowly but surely his policies began to work. Unemployment decreased. The budget was balanced.
4 Stars. Watch out for Scott Walker in 2016. Big Bold Solutions.
In 2011 Protestors filled the State Capitol. They urinated on the steps of the Govenors office. They threatened his family. The democratic state Senators fled the State to avoid voting and became heroes on the Left. The Governor was declared a "dead man Walker."
But the Governor began to make his case. He noted bus drivers that were making 125 k and other fraudulent government systems. He showed schools could improve if principals could fire poor teachers. He explained to the public how without collective bargaining the schools could negotiate for cheaper better health insurance and save millions--and pour it back into the schools. And slowly but surely his policies began to work. Unemployment decreased. The budget was balanced.
4 Stars. Watch out for Scott Walker in 2016. Big Bold Solutions.
April 17, 2014
Scott Walker's story of reining in wasteful spending and union cronyism during his 2010 election and 2012 recall election was a pretty quick read. He goes into great and disgusting detail of how the tolerant left berated him, his wife, his children, and any Republican state politician. Dumping beer on someone's head, interrupting a celebration of Special Olympic athletes, and supergluing shut the doors of a Catholic school is just the beginning. Walker shares in detail the ideas behind his reforms, what he endured to get them passed, the backlash, the success of the reforms, and the huge recall victory (by a wider margin than the 2010 election). In addition, he points out the differences between his method of reform and Mitt Romney's attempt at wooing Wisconsinites during the 2012 presidential election. Walker wraps up the book outlining lesson's he's learned through the whole process and recommending these lessons to other reformers in the nation.
I couldn't give the book five stars because at times it seemed repetitive and there were several typos (something that drives me nuts). But still, I highly recommend it for anyone interested in politics and anyone who is looking for a great leaders to elect to the presidency in 2016.
I couldn't give the book five stars because at times it seemed repetitive and there were several typos (something that drives me nuts). But still, I highly recommend it for anyone interested in politics and anyone who is looking for a great leaders to elect to the presidency in 2016.
September 19, 2015
It has to be a really special book for me to call it an amazing read, 5 stars by this rating system, but I really believe this book is somewhere in between.
Well put together. Gave me some insight on who Mr. Walker is, where he comes from and what he has been influenced by. Fun, and a bit disturbing in places, to get the inside scoop on the politics and events that Wisconsin went through in those early years of his governorship and the upheaval of 2011-2012.
A brave man, solid in his beliefs who sees himself as a reformer of government, Scott Walker gives you an eye into his thinking and planning when doing what so few republicans have the guts to do, take on corrupt government unions. For me, it was eye opening to read about what it took from those who supported him and to find out how many were brave enough to take the steps that they did in Wisconsin to do the right thing.
We see so little of it today in our politicians.
If you don't have your union blinders on and want to get some really good insight on what state government can possibly do to repair our country and lead it into fiscal sanity once again from someone who has done it, This is your book.
The bullying union thug types will strongly disagree, but it happened and they lost. Big time.
Well put together. Gave me some insight on who Mr. Walker is, where he comes from and what he has been influenced by. Fun, and a bit disturbing in places, to get the inside scoop on the politics and events that Wisconsin went through in those early years of his governorship and the upheaval of 2011-2012.
A brave man, solid in his beliefs who sees himself as a reformer of government, Scott Walker gives you an eye into his thinking and planning when doing what so few republicans have the guts to do, take on corrupt government unions. For me, it was eye opening to read about what it took from those who supported him and to find out how many were brave enough to take the steps that they did in Wisconsin to do the right thing.
We see so little of it today in our politicians.
If you don't have your union blinders on and want to get some really good insight on what state government can possibly do to repair our country and lead it into fiscal sanity once again from someone who has done it, This is your book.
The bullying union thug types will strongly disagree, but it happened and they lost. Big time.
July 30, 2015
I think my overall rating is closer to about three and a half stars. I've admired Walker's achievements and general gutsiness for years, watching across the border from Illinois during his showdown in Wisconsin over collective bargaining. His book is a good inside look at how he approached the fight for passage of the bill and later to avoid a recall. The last couple chapters where he details lessons learned from governing Wisconsin and compares his campaigns with Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential bid are probably the best in the book. What brings the rating down is that the book simply goes in circles repeating the same stats and facts to back up Walker's policies. If you can get past hearing the same thing half a dozen times or more in support of something that you may have already agreed was correct, Unintimidated is an interesting read. I'm glad I decided to venture into reading a politician's book.
March 23, 2014
This book could have used better editing by the ghost writer, er, I mean, author. It is very difficult to follow a book when the chapters are short, and the content repetitive.
This could have been compiled better as a textbook, starting with the premise, than the history of the issue, followed by the events, and finally an informative conclusion. Instead the book had no clear timeline, meandered over facts, glossed over stats, and lacked any details. I've read pamphlets with more information.
The book is fine if you take into account, this is merely a manifesto of a potential future presidential candidate. Better lock up your closet governor! ;)
Spoiler: No, I do not believe what can be done in Wisconsin, can work in Washington.
This could have been compiled better as a textbook, starting with the premise, than the history of the issue, followed by the events, and finally an informative conclusion. Instead the book had no clear timeline, meandered over facts, glossed over stats, and lacked any details. I've read pamphlets with more information.
The book is fine if you take into account, this is merely a manifesto of a potential future presidential candidate. Better lock up your closet governor! ;)
Spoiler: No, I do not believe what can be done in Wisconsin, can work in Washington.
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