The Reluctant Wisconsinite

I vowed in 2004 that I would never live in a Red State. I can handle a purple state. I could maybe even handle a blue enclave (Austin) in an always red state, but when a state has changed from the one I once knew, well it's time to leave.

Wisconsin, I will bid you adieu in 2011.

It's not just because of the elections. Wisconsin and I have been hanging in there together for a while here, for what seems like "for the kids." The relationship has been suffering. Wisconsin doesn't make me feel the way it used to. I don't think it appreciates me. And now it's gone and cheated on me. Our values have completely shifted. Why stay in a failing partnership? It's time to move out.

One of my motivations for staying in Wisconsin was the possibility of going to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Elated, was I, when plans for high speed rail began formulating and I envisioned staying car-free, commuting as necessary to classes in my mid-30s and receiving top-quality higher education.

Unfortunately, my fellow Wisconsinites don't only not share this vision, but are vehemently against making this lifestyle choice. Why then would they elect a college-drop out to run the higher education system? A man who declared his transit policy to have everyone afford to buy a car, and a stepford wife who wants all moms to drive minivans. Oh, and I will be a mom or abstinent, because these folks are so conservative, they don't even support birth control.

I've had SEVERAL friends challenge me tonight, calling me over dramatic, encouraging me to "sleep on it," even threatening to "defriend" me if I don't stop complaining. Luckily my best friend, the wonderful Kat, called me and cheerlead me through it. Once she got me to stop crying and throwing things, she and I had a practically rational conversation about leaving.

• Why should I stay and contribute to the economy of a state that is against most everything I believe in?
• What may be worse than my severe disagreement of the people elected tonight, is that I have to go to work, go to bars, go to the supermarket, with people who share those values.
• I'm not from here. I am painfully single. I'm not 100% satisfied with life. Why should I stay in this situation? Why should I not venture out and seek to mix up my life? Why should I be content with discontent?

Why have I not spoken up before? Why I haven't used this blog or my twitter for political posturing this election season? Unfortunately, in the Midwest strong opinions are best kept to oneself...unless you're talking about God-fearin' or train-hatin'. Yeah, not for me anymore. I will continue to do the best that I can while I brave out one more winter in this no man's land -- but come spring, I'm looking coastward.