Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett Announces Candidacy for Wisconsin Governor

Strategic Insights -

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