Editor’s note: The following letter was sent to U.S. Rep. F. James Sensenbrenner (R-Menomonee Falls) by Milwaukee business executive Craig Peterson, who shared the letter with BizTimes Milwaukee. The letter came in response to a story in the Milwaukee Jourrnal Sentinel about Sensenbrenner departing on lavish trips to Liechtenstein in recent years.
Dear Congressman Sensenbrenner:
I believe it may be time for you to move on.
To say I was flabbergasted by what I read this morning about your trip to Liechtenstein would be an understatement.
What color is the sun on your planet?
Your constituents are fighting for their economic survival. They are struggling to keep their homes. Some of them have been laid-off or experienced foreclosure. Your actions are a slap in the face to each of us trying to work harder, create and save jobs, and set an example for our employees, neighbors and children.
This economy is clearly a teaching moment for all of us. We cannot continue to do what may have been acceptable in the past.
As a former lobbyist, I admit that I have personally, professionally and financially benefited from nonprofit junkets sponsored by corporations through nonprofits. It is on these trips our clients receive incredible access to legislators and the ability to create friendships and relationships that go beyond the capitol dome. Relationships that average constituents do not have the opportunity to enjoy. And while I believe unnecessary government funded trips, in this economic environment should be halted, at least they are vetted before congressional leaders.
Mr. Congressman, as the owner of three businesses, I see every day the anxiety in my clients’ and customers’ eyes. They struggle to keep their doors open. Worry about getting credit from the bank to make payroll. Or question if they even have enough money in their grocery budget to buy a six-pack of beer.
Junkets and freebies are no longer acceptable.
Hard work, the ability to empathize with your constituents and being here, is acceptable.
You have had a long and impressive career. I have admired your conservative voice in the crowd of moderates. But perhaps there are other conservatives standing in the wings who know what it is like to sign the front of a paycheck, not only the back.
Earlier this week, several of your colleagues honored the 3,300 heroes headed off to Iraq. Your absence was an insult to their selflessness.
You no longer have my support or my vote.
Sincerely,
Craig J. Peterson
Chairman and CEO
Zigman Joseph Stephenson
Buffalo Water Beer Company
Hunter Industries
