Laurel Patrick, a spokeswoman for Walker, said in an email: “Political contributions are in no way tied to tax incentives provided by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Decisions related to investments or awards are contractually required to meet certain objectives.”

The Waneks previously gave $10,500 to Walker’s campaign going back to 2010, according to the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.

Donations to others

They also gave $18,500 to Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat, from 2002 to 2006; $8,000 to Republican Gov. Scott McCallum in 2000 and 2001; and $20,500 to Republican Gov. Tommy Thompson between 1993 and 1998.

The company and city of Arcadia have received 10 awards from WEDC and the Department of Commerce since 1988, but the $6 million tax credit approved in January would total more than all the others combined.

In a statement Sunday, liberal advocacy group One Wisconsin Now said the timing “should raise serious questions.” The group’s executive director Scot Ross said in an interview that he’s not claiming anything illegal took place.

“They just got a $6 million tax break that allows them to cut half their jobs and two weeks later they give Walker $20,000,” Ross said. “I think it speaks for itself.”