I was hoping for a night off from all of this.
This will be short...A judge has ordered all protesters out of the State Capitol.
Police are donning riot gear as 100 or more protesters have rushed the doors and have gotten into the Capitol.
http://www.channel3000.com/...
I will update as I get more info
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 07:35:04 PM
My understanding is that the Judge ordered the protesters occupying the Capitol to leave. After they left the Capitol would be open during normal business hours. No overnight stays. (This seems fair and reasonable to me).
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 07:37:57 PM
Ok...Judge John Albert states "the state has closed the Capitol impermissibly."
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 07:40:26 PM
From the Wisconsin State Journal
"Scores of protesters managed to push past police and storm the Capitol shortly before 6 p.m. "
http://host.madison.com/...
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 07:54:09 PM
From Ben Masel in Comments
SOME cops opened their doors a few minutes before 6;00, when the building was to be officially closed. Other cops panicked. All's calm now.
Most of those inside marched out, Cheif Tubbs is trying to persuade the remainder to leave voluntarily.
By leaving overnight, we can define the daytime opening as a win. Walk out proud now, walk in proud at 8:AM.
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 08:05:33 PM
From the Madison.com article...
With many protesters in tears, one urged the group to leave and end the occupation - which has captured national headlines since mid-February - on a high note.
"We've all made our point; the world is watching," the man said.
Capitol Police Chief Charles Tubbs also urged the group to leave, saying "I am asking you as a person to leave. I don't want to arrest anyone."
But many seemed intent to stay, at least until they've had a chance to see Albert's ruling.
The situation appears to be defusing.
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 08:18:49 PM
As things now appear to be defusing I am going to now try to finish writing a paper I have due for school tonight. If anything breaking happens I will hop back on.
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 08:27:51 PM
A copy of the judges ruling
http://yfrog.com/...
Updated by Kodiak54 at Thu Mar 3, 2011, 09:57:48 PM
Tweet from the ACLU
ACLUMadison:
Chief Tubbs goes out first. Protesters lead with drums, long line coming out to huge cheers.