Wisconsin's newest democratic decision

One can recall the daring efforts of the governor of Wisconsin last year to try to get control of his state's terrible debts, by attempting to curtail certain aspects of the state employee's union's bargaining rights. A traditional bastion of socialism, the unions there had considerable might. The legislature was flooded by opponents; a significant portion of representatives actually left the state for awhile  to reduce the chances of a proper vote from happening. Well, the governor ultimately managed to get his way. But, his opponents were not finished. They decided to utilize a   state law permitting them to try to "recall" their governor. They needed a petition signed by 300,000 citizens. They got 600,000. And the referendum upon that issue was held. But, lo and behold, the majority of the citizens actually agreed to the governor's efforts to obtain control. They opposed the recall effort. What an example of Direct Democracy!  Why are not more such processes used in this modern age? Clearly in Quebec where many students seem to think their opinions are in the majority, such process is not available. Nor is it anywhere else, except in an awkward way in B.C. But, shouldn't it be? Students, -  start thinking out of the box - and towards Direct Democracy and its processes of petitions and referendums. You might actually improve the world, instead of making a nuisance of yourselves.