Politics & Government

Updated: Larson Not Attending 'Brat Summit'

Oak Creek's state senator called on Gov. Walker to bridge the divide in a "real way that actually means something."

One legislator who did not attend Tuesday's much-hyped "brat summit" at the governor's mansion: Chris Larson.

Larson, who represents Oak Creek in the state Senate, said on his Facebook page he has to take care of his new baby while his wife is at work.

But he also called on Gov. Walker to bridge the divide in a "real way that actually means something." Namely, a special legislative session.

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"If Walker truly wants to find compromise and work together on jobs, education, and health care, he will convene a special legislative session now that there is actually a check on his power in the state senate. Let's have a real conversation about where Wisconsin is headed," Larson said.

Walker scheduled the cookout for Tuesday afternoon in an attempt to mend fences following the June 5 recall election.

Find out what's happening in Oak Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I am hopeful this get-together will forge relationships that will make it easier to work together to help create jobs," Walker said in a statement.

Update 11:45 a.m. Leaders of two conservative groups, Citizens for Responsible Government and Grandsons of Liberty, released a statement criticizing Larson's absence, calling his comments "the words of an arrogant, egotistical person who demands the other party yield to his ideology."

"As grassroots movement leaders, we agree that Governor's 'Brat Summit' can help move Wisconsin 'Forward' by bringing legislators together where they can set aside differences for a while and focusing their attention on improving our economy which will bring jobs," according to a news release. "If Senator Chris Larson cannot accept the will of 53% of the people of Wisconsin and shift his focus to growing the economy for all Wisconsinites and if he cannot step 'Forward' by attending this 'Brat Summit,' then perhaps it is time for him to step 'Aside.'"


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