It’s hard to remember in the post-Scott Walker era, but Wisconsin was once known as a laboratory for progressive pro-worker policy.  On June 17, 1905, Wisconsin became one of the first states in the nation to implement a Civil Service system at the state level. Instead of political appointees, hiring and promotion in state agencies was to be done by merit. Instead of a “who you know” system of patronage, it was a “what you know” system.  On Saturday, June 17, the Wisconsin Coalition to Save Civil Service will hold a 118-year birthday party for Wisconsin’s civil service system.  Activists Barbara Smith from the Wisconsin Coalition to Save Civil Service joins us now by phone. Welcome, Barbara.  Also joining us Sally Drew from the Association of Career Employees join us now by phone.

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