"His first reaction is, 'How could these people be so stupid?'" This insight is courtesy of 10th District Alderman Ken Golden describing how Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz reacts to opposition. This is no real surprise because Mayor Dave is an idealist, convinced he knows what is best for the rest of us. Madison is home to a collection of individuals who have excelled at learning aspects of the entirety of knowledge, and therefore, believe they are smarter than common people.
Since his election, Cieslewicz has aggressively pursued his New Urbanism fantasy and has ruffled some feathers in the process. The Wisconsin State Journal is now asking Has Mayor Dave Lost His Magic?
Still, in recent months, strains have arisen with the city's political left and arts community, leaving some wondering how he handles losing. And, he is now dealing with a bolder council. Although no one gives it much of a chance, a group is even trying to launch a recall election.The Dump Mayor Dave grassroots movement is on the attack even as Post-Socialist Joel Rogers is still calling the plays from the UW Madison Sociology Department.
"You are seeing style, personality, politics and individual agendas all eroding his political capital," said Ald. Tim Bruer of the South Side's 14th District, the council's senior member. "What was unimaginable a year ago is starting to take place now. An unusual coalition of liberals, conservatives, business and trade labor are actively seeking candidates to oppose him."
