When pressed about earlier accusations of copying parts of her jobs plan, first reported by BuzzFeed, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mary Burke said criticisms are just a matter of ‘politics as usual.’
During a meeting with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel editorial board Wednesday, Burke said she took the claims seriously and responded immediately. “I was on it from day one. I remember because I was on the phone and doing interviews the first day that it came out.” She says, “That’s politics. This was no doubt politically motivated to take the attention off some really bad job numbers that were released at the exact same time.”
A consultant, who worked for several Democratic candidates, was blamed for using his own words in multiple campaigns. Though, Burke said, “It’s definitely my plan.”
In her defense, Burke had said she wants to bring the best ideas to Wisconsin and “I don’t care where they’re coming from.” She also said last month, “As governor, I am going to welcome ideas from other places — the best ideas, the best practices.”
Burke said at today’s meeting the snafu probably slowed the momentum of her campaign as she strives to replace first term Governor Scott Walker on November 4th. “Yeah, sure. It had an impact, but there are three weeks to go on this. This is how politics go. This is how campaigns go.”
Turnout will be the key to winning the election. Just minutes after Burke made her comments, the Marquette University Law School poll released its latest findings, showing Burke and Walker tied.
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