Payback: GOP Banned From Labor Day Parade in Wisconsin

This is a constantly evolving story. It was originally reported as follows:

Organizers of Wausau's Labor Day parade say Republican lawmakers aren't welcome in this year's event.

The Marathon County Central Labor Council sponsors the September 5th parade. The council includes about 30 local unions from the Marathon County area.

Then, the Mayor claims the event must be non-partisan because the city pays part of the costs.(emphasis is mine)

August 29, 2011- The City is a co-sponsor of the Labor Day parade event, because we provided the payment for the insurance premium for the event, and we agreed to erect a stage and provide city services at no cost to the Marathon County Central Labor Council.

The banning of a political party from participation at any event co-sponsored by the City is against public policy and not in the best interest of all the citizens of the City of Wausau. And therefore, we encourage the event organizer to invite all interested parties, or reimburse the city for other costs.