Signs of worry in Wisconsin with sequester looming



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The deadline to stop massive federal spending cuts is Friday, March 1st. With no signs of a deal to avoid sequester in Washington, there are signs of worry in Wisconsin.

"This is what leaders live for, this is what moments like this are for with leaders. You step up and find alternatives to the arbitrary cuts that are out there," said Gov. Scott Walker.

Gov. Walker says President Barack Obama should take it upon himself to change the cuts so they do the least amount of damage to the economy.

"My hope is the president and his administration, who the president has raised many times the concern that these are arbitrary cuts those are his words can find a better or a more feasible alternative," said Gov. Walker.

But the state Democratic Party is blaming Republicans.

One study shows sequestration would have a deep impact on the state -- the loss of $1.8 billion from the state's economy, 36,000 jobs, and health and education cuts.

On Sunday, the White House released its estimates of how the cuts would hit home in Wisconsin. Teachers and schools would see an $8.5 million cut, including 120 jobs. Head State would cut services for 900 Wisconsin children and the military stationed here would see 3,000 furloughs.

"It will have immediate effects on the economy of Wisconsin," said Graeme Zielinski, from the Democratic Party of Wisconsin.

Gov. Walker says Congress should take its cue from the Wisconsin budget battle -- making tough cuts without raising taxes.

"We found more viable alternatives to the deficits we are dealing with," said Gov. Walker.

"He wants to have cuts to entitlement programs like medicare and medicaid and social security, so every kind of right wrong fantasy, they're using the sequester to advance," said Zielinski.