Wisconsin Governor Has Issued No Pardons

His predecessor got in hot water for pardoning nearly 300 people

Republican Gov. Scott Walker hasn't issued a pardon or set up the next version of the state's Pardon Advisory Board, refusing to exercise one of his office's most expansive powers to restore felons' former rights.

Walker spokesman Cullen Werwie said the governor has suspended the pardon program but offered no explanation beyond "because he has made the decision not to grant any pardons at this time." Werwie didn't have any numbers on how many people have requested a pardon, saying only that the office has received "a bunch."

Walker's lack of action stands in stark contrast to his predecessor. Democrat Jim Doyle pardoned nearly 300 people during his eight years in office, with roughly a third coming during the last 3 1/2 months of his tenure. Tough-on-crime Republicans ripped Doyle then, saying he abused his pardon powers.