Former Trek Bicycle Exec. Mary Burke to run for governor

MADISON (WITI) -- Former Trek Bicycle Executive Mary Burke announced on Monday, October 7th that she will run for Governor of Wisconsin. Burke, a Democrat, announced her intention in a web video.



In a statement associated with the release, Burke said, "I know that Wisconsin workers can compete with anyone in the world.  That’s why when you look around at places like Minnesota, Indiana and Ohio, whose economies are creating more jobs than ours, you wonder what the heck’s going on?” said Burke. “Wisconsin ranks 45th out of 50 states in projected job growth. We’re fifth from the bottom.  I’m running for Governor because we can do better than that. A lot better.  But to do it, we've got to make some real changes in Madison."

Burke is 54 years old, from Madison and educated at Georgetown. She holds an MBA from Harvard and has worked as an executive at Trek Bicycles, her family's business. Burke was also the Commerce Secretary for Gov. Jim Doyle and currently serves on the Madison School Board. She also has a long history of philanthropy.

"Wisconsin's been really good to us and I want to make sure your family has the same opportunities we've had," said Burke.

Will Burke's candidacy clear the field -- or will there be a Democratic primary? State Senator Kathleen Vinehout is still contemplating a bid -- and says she'll make a decision at the beginning of 2014.

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