Congressional Democrats send Gov. Walker letter regarding health care

MADISON (AP) -- Democrats in Wisconsin's congressional delegation are calling on Gov. Scott Walker to implement a state-run health care exchange under the federal law championed by President Barack Obama.

Walker faces a Friday deadline to notify the Obama administration as to whether Wisconsin will run its own exchange, have the federal government do it, or create a hybrid.

The letter released Tuesday was signed by U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl and U.S. Reps. Tammy Baldwin, Ron Kind and Gwen Moore. Mark Pocan, who was elected to Congress in November, also signed.

The lawmakers urge Walker to create a state exchange that builds off the unique strengths of Wisconsin's health care system.

Walker spokesman Cullen Werwie had no comment. He says Walker would announce his decision Thursday or Friday.