The state Democratic Party is again raising questions about a legal defense fund established by Governor Walker as part of an ongoing John Doe investigation in Milwaukee County.
Walker’s campaign recently transferred $60,000 to the fund to pay lawyers the governor has retained. The governor has not yet disclosed what part he is playing in the ongoing probe, which has so far resulted in multiple charges against former members of Walker’s staff when he served as Milwaukee County executive. Charges range from staff doing campaign work on county time to embezzling money from a charity for veterans. Walker insists he is not the target of the probe and no charges have been filed against him.
However, state Democratic Party chairman Mike Tate says such funds can only be set up if an officeholder has been charged with election violations or is under investigation. DPW has filed a complaint with the state Government Accountability Board that asks the agency to explain the reasons why the fund is legal.
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, one of the candidates hoping to face Walker in a recall election next month, also called for the governor to disclose why the fund has been set up.
Walker’s campaign says the fund was set up under the guidance of the GAB.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (1:06)