Wisconsin Republicans Authorize Purchase of Social Media Site Quora

Republican Senators in Wisconsin have authorized the purchase of Quora, a popular social media site, in an effort to find a quorum and end the political stalemate over collective bargaining rights for state public employees.

Senate File 190 would authorize up to $5,000 toward purchase of the site, which experts say has a market value approaching $1 billion. It is not clear how Republicans will make up the difference, though officials involved in the decision say they believe they can raise “significant” revenue from fines levied against Democratic Senators who have left the state. Republicans say they are also considering assessing a “free speech tax” on publications and parade permits, beginning in 2012.

“With this action, we send a strong and powerful message that we will not be deterred in our efforts to find a quorum,” said Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald. “Not only will the purchase of Quora assure that we can continue unfinished business today, but it will provide additional quora in the future if this happens again.”