Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett Announces Candidacy for Wisconsin Governor
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett has decided to run for Wisconsin governor, providing the Democratic Party with a credible candidate. Barrett, who has a sizable campaign account with over $800,000, had been under pressure to run after Democratic Governor Jim Doyle decided not to seek a third term. Barrett's candidacy sets up a possible Milwaukee-centric contest in the November 2010 general election.
Key Takeaways:
- Barrett cited his recovery from a violent attack in August as a reason for delaying his decision to run, saying he was not thinking about the governor's race and had to heal and get his strength back.
- Barrett has a strong campaign account with over $800,000, while the Republicans still need to raise money to fight each other in the primary.
- Polls showed Barrett running neck and neck with his leading Republican opponent, Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, before Barrett announced his candidacy.
- Barrett's rivals, Walker and former U.S. Representative Mark Neumann, plan to run against him as anti-tax crusaders.
- Barrett will likely focus on jobs and economic recovery as part of his platform, similar to the Republican candidates.
Statistics:
- Over $800,000 in Barrett's campaign account for the general election
- 6 years of Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker running for governor
- 20 years of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett's experience in government
- 10 pins that held Barrett's hand together after he intervened in a domestic dispute
- August 15: Date of Barrett's violent attack
- November 2010: General election date for Wisconsin governor
Sources:
- Wisconsin State Journal
- ABC News
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- Democratic Party Chairman Mike Tate
- State Republican Party Executive Director Mark Jefferson
- Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker