Despite campaigning to be Wisconsin’s chief executive, gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett won’t be shaking too many hands in the coming days. He’s having surgery today on the very body part that comes in handy for meeting and greeting new people.

“They’re going to re-break one of the fingers and set it again.”

Barrett’s right hand was crushed last August by an attacker as the Milwaukee Mayor went to assist a damsel in distress just outside State Fair Park.

He says it is a challenge trying to do what politicians do best.

“When I was a kid my father always said to give people a firm handshake and look them in the eye. It’s a little tough right now to give people a firm handshake but I still try to look them in the eye.”

Barrett didn’t seem to be in too much pain while addressing members of Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. He frequently waved his hands and gestured while talking at the group’s Business Day in Madison.

NOTE: Barrett spoke to reporters after his speech to Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. GOP candidate for governor, Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, also spoke, and former Congressman Mark Neumann was invited but unable to make it.

Jackie Johnson report 1:16

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