DANE—Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker announced his candidacy for governor at an event Tuesday at Henry Farms in Dane, Wis.
Running under the slogan ""Believe in Wisconsin Again,"" Walker, a Republican, said he would lead the state in rebuilding the economy.
""For years, too many of the politicians in Madison ignored the looming crisis so they could continue to spend more and more taxpayer dollars,"" Walker said in his speech.
Criticizing Gov. Jim Doyle's budget as costly and contributing to big government, Walker promised to return the state to principles of limited government, economic growth and personal freedom.
Walker is not new to Wisconsin politics, having served four terms in the state Assembly starting in 1993 and becoming Milwaukee's county executive in 2002.
Although it remains uncertain whether Doyle will run for a third term, the Democratic Party criticized Walker for his campaigning style.
""Scott Walker is poised to start one of the most negative campaigns in the history of Wisconsin,"" Alec Loftus, spokesperson for Wisconsin's Democratic Party, said. ""Scott Walker is not offering any new ideas, … any new solutions. He's just offering new attacks on Doyle.""
According to Loftus, Doyle remains focused on creating jobs, fixing the economy and maintaining education as the state's priorities.
""Doyle is working with President Obama to train workers and stimulate the economy,"" Loftus said. ""He is not focusing on the campaign at this point.""
Portraying the Doyle administration as disconnected and failing to maintain the interests of Wisconsin workers, Walker said his administration would work closely with state residents.
Walker pledged to travel throughout the state until the November 2010 election, sharing his ideas and listening to voters' visions for the future.
""This campaign isn't about me,"" Walker said. ""It's about all of us. And it's about the conversation that we should be able to have with our elected officials. I want to hear your stories … I want you to share with me what you expect from your government.""
Walker said if elected he would remain true to his conservative values and lead the state in a new direction.
""With the right leadership, we can build a better and brighter future for Wisconsin,"" he said. ""I am running for governor because I believe in a better Wisconsin and I know that you do, too.""
