Leaders from the state’s 72 counties are meeting in Milwaukee. Wisconsin Counties Association Executive Director Mark O’Connell says members heard Monday from the candidates for governor, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker.
“Mr. Walker and Mr. Barrett were both received very well,” said O’Connell. “Our membership respects the office of governor no matter who is in it. There may be items on which we disagree on with whoever wins this office. The members of the counties association believe it’s our obligation, our duty to work with state government.”
O’Connell says no matter which candidate wins in November, county governments understand the importance of working with Madison. And he says they understand the tough times facing the state. “We’re in a difficult time as a nation, we’re in a difficult time as a state. The citizens are wanting change, they’re wanting it quickly. Government doesn’t move at the speed of light, in fact government doesn’t move at the speed of the private sector. We move at a much slower pace, a methodical pace.”
Today the Association hears from the candidates for U.S. Senate, incumbent Democrat Russ Feingold and Republican challenger Ron Johnson.