Conservative Group Files Federal Lawsuit To End New John Doe Probe

Conservatives filed a federal lawsuit in Milwaukee on Monday aimed at stopping the investigation nicknamed “John Doe 2.”

Several Wisconsin district attorneys and a special prosecutor have been looking into possible illegal campaign coordination between interest groups and Republican candidates that faced recall attempts, including Gov. Scott Walker.

A plaintiff in the new lawsuit, Wisconsin Club for Growth, said the John Doe probe violates members’ rights to equal protection under the law, as well as their rights to free speech and free assembly.

Two weeks ago, a state appeals court blocked another attempt to halt the investigation, but a lawyer for the plaintiffs, David Rivkin of Washington D.C., argued the case calls for extraordinary action from the federal judiciary.

Democratic candidate for Governor, Mary Burke commented on the new lawsuit at a campaign appearance in Milwaukee.

“I favor transparency, and I favor a swift and judicious process making sure we get to the truth,” said Burke.

Burke says voters should be concerned about the allegations against Walker and his supporters: “I think voters have a right to know who they are voting for, and whether there are any legal issues surrounding candidates.”

Defendants in the new lawsuit include a reserve judge and special prosecutor Francis Schmitz. Also named are several Milwaukee County prosecutors, including some who led a previous probe that led to convictions against several Walker aides and associates.

Editor’s Note: David Rivkin did not reply to requests for an interview.