I have been consulting and working in Asia since 2000 and have been amazed at how the international plutocrats via ALEC have been able to dismantle the middle class in Wisconsin under Scott Walker and create a low wage extraction state where a vibrant socially responsible state once stood. Walker, clearly has no clue as the plutocrats fund his campaign and ALEC ghost writes his legislation and others ghost write his biography. The emerging Asian nations I have been working with are intent on increasing their middle class as a way to become a modern society. They are investing in schools and public transportation (high speed rail). Walker's policies are going in the opposite direction. But, that doesn't make any difference to Walker's handlers because they can sell things to the emerging middle class in Asia. Hence, The upcoming trade mission to China.
An interesting article appeared in the Chinese News magazine “Oriental Outlook” on January 29, 2013. It is important enough that it was translated into English and published in the April English edition of “News China”.
“Unnerved by rocketing house prices at home, a growing number of Chinese real estate investors are shifting to the over-seas market. Despite warnings from experts that taxes, fees and higher loan rates for overseas buyers could result in diminished returns for Chinese buyers, the trend shows no sign of slowing. Media have revealed that non-naturalized Chinese people accounted for over 40% of total house sales in Vancouver last year, and that one third of new apartments in London's ritzy Canary Warf were sold to Chinese buyers, pushing up housing prices in the area by 5 to 10 percent. Many governments in Western Countries have issued policies to curb price hikes which experts believe ”will further increase investment risks for Chinese investors.”
These new Chinese Plutocrats are eager to buy real estate anywhere and as a result “many governments have issued policies to curb price hikes” But these Chinese Real Estate investors have patience and will invest in spite of restrictions.
Imagine how a state like Wisconsin must look to these Chinese investors. Pristine lakes, a tradition of taking care of the environment, (up until now), clean water, lax mining laws and new legislation enabling foreign real estate investment (not restricting it, enabling it!). State Senator Vienhout's concern about the Wisconsin farm is right on target. One of the biggest shortages in China today is infant formula, a dairy product.
Rural Wisconsin will continue to suffer under Walker but rural voters have been taught by plutocrats that urban welfare is the enemy and they will continue to vote against their own best interests. Divide & Conquer!