"We are one step closer to the new direction our state needs:" Mary Burke easily defeats Brett Hulsey in primary for governor



MADISON (WITI/AP) -- Former Trek Bicycle executive Mary Burke has easily defeated state Rep. Brett Hulsey in the Democratic primary for governor.

With Tuesday's win, Burke advances to face Republican Gov. Scott Walker in the Nov. 4th General Election.

Hulsey was never a serious threat to Burke, raising next-to-no money for the race, hiring no staff and largely being shunned by Democratic Party leaders.

Democrats had hoped that Burke's entry into the race in October would clear the field, but Hulsey surprised them by announcing his candidacy in April instead of seeking a third term in the Assembly.

Burke had all but ignored Hulsey throughout the campaign, including refusing to debate.

Hulsey had been traveling the state in a hand-painted car, with only one campaign staff member: his dog Penny.

Hulsey says just getting on the primary ballot was a campaign goal. Hulsey, who is single, says one of his campaign goals was to get a date. He says in that regard, he has been successful.

He said earlier Tuesday he would be happier if he didn't win.

Hulsey planned to be with supporters in Madison on election night.

The state's Democratic Party isn't happy their supported candidate, Mary Burke faced a challenger in the primary.

That might be why Burke didn't host any public primary election night parties. Instead, she met with supporters in a private home in the far northwest part of the state.

Burke is on a three-day swing of the northern part of the state -- giving Governor Scott Walker and the November General Election her undivided attention.

Burke's campaign said her supporters would be at Congresswoman Gwen Moore's gathering in Milwaukee.

Burke was expected to make a television appearance in Rhinelander when the primary race is called.

Burke's campaign issued the following statement following her primary election victory:

"Tonight we are one step closer to the new direction our state needs.  Under Governor Walker we rank dead last, tenth out of ten states in the Midwest, in private sector job growth.  Wisconsin must do better than that, and with my jobs plan, Invest for Success, which is based on my experience in the private sector, we will.  My commitment to the people of our great state is simple - I will be a Governor who works for you and puts common sense problem solving ahead of the politics that have divided our state.  I am truly honored by the trust placed in me by Wisconsin voters and look forward to continuing to earn the support of Republicans, Independents and Democrats alike over the next 84 days."

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