Capitol Chaos: Demonstrators in Capitol Closely Regulated

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MADISON - Officials at the Capitol building are changing the rules regarding demonstrators inside the building for reasons that include safety and cleaning.

Police closed the Capitol to additional protestors Monday morning after a demonstrator climbed the building and had to be dragged away. 

Currently, Capitol officials are engaged in ongoing talks with union representatives about a potential designated area in which protestors can rally.

In addition, authorities will continue to regulate crowd size to accomodate the clearning crews.

A statement from the Capitol reads, "Individuals who wish to see their legislators but do not have an appointment can request law enforcement officers at the King Street entrance to call the legislative office." 

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The Capitol was set to close on Sunday for cleaning, but hundreds remained in the building, and many of them woke up Monday inside the building's rotunda.

Capitol Police originally planned to close the building Sunday afternoon, then keep the doors closed after business hours.

But when it came time to go, protesters refused.

They broke into song, singing the national anthem and the union anthem "Solidarity Forever."

The Capitol Police Chief decided they could stay because amidst the political chaos, they have been peaceful.

He asked the cleaning crew to work around the protesters.

"There will be no use of force," said Chief Charles Tubbs. 

"We want the people to continue to cooperate."

After the decision, a woman with a bullhorn said "We're going to be able to stay the night here tonight!" and cheers followed.

Demonstrators began camping out inside the normally immaculate Capitol two weeks ago in an effort to fight legislation proposed by Walker that would strip most of the state's public employees of the right to collectively bargain.

Associated Press writer Patrick Condon contributed to this report.