Citizens have stormed the capital! Public services have shut down! Members of the government have fled the area!

We’re not talking about the continuing protests in the Middle East…we’re talking about Wisconsin!

For almost a week, Wisconsinites have been expressing their outrage. Why?

Governor Scott Walker has proposed a controversial state budget. The most contentious item on his agenda is the termination of collective bargaining rights for state employees.

Worried about their jobs, tens of thousands of people have made their way to the capitol, some camping out, in protests which have caught the eye of onlookers all over the United States (even President Obama).

Included in the protests have been many Wisconsin teachers whose unions are at risk, forcing some public schools to shut down.

To prevent the bill from passing in the state’s Senate, Democratic lawmakers have fled the state. State law requires at least one of them be present in order for the Republican majority to hold a vote.

The events unfolding in Madison have raised questions on the matter of workers’ rights and the issue is expected to spread throughout the country.  In the meantime, some are still hoping for compromise in Wisconsin.

BONUS: At least one Egyptian feels the pain of Wisconsin workers.