http://budget.wispolitics.com/2011/03/dems-set-up-office-outside-capitol-in.htmlAssembly Democrats have moved desks onto the lawn of the Capitol to meet with constituents, something they say can't be done under current restrictions to building access.
"Obviously there was a court order to open this building and anybody with a brain would tell you they're defying the court order," said Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca, D-Kenosha.
Following two days of restricted access, Dane County judge yesterday issued a temporary restraining order to open up the Capitol to the public. The Department of Administration filed a challenge, and the case is currently being heard in Judge John Albert's court.
Hundreds have been lined up at the King Street entrance of the building, the only one open for public entrance, for the last two days.
Reps. Cory Mason, Josh Zepnick, Nick Milroy, Fred Clark joined Barca in meeting with constituents outdoors. Temperatures in Madison this afternoon were in the low 20s."It's clear the governor and his administration is making a mockery of the justice system. He is not above the law," Barca said.
Former U.S. Rep. Dave Obey, who is also a former member of the state Assembly, was forced to stand outside for more than a half hour because law enforcement wouldn't let him in the Capitol, according to Barca.
-- By Greg Bump