Republican U.S. Senate candidate David Westlake said he will soon propose a new “consumption tax” that would replace income and other federal taxes, be easier for taxpayers to understand, and all but abolish the Internal Revenue Service. In a Campaign 2010 interview in the WisconsinEye studio on September 1, Westlake said his new tax plan will provide one more reason for voters in the September 14 primary to back him instead of Oshkosh businessman Ron Johnson. Westlake predicted that he will beat the better-funded Johnson in the primary and said he looks forward to being the GOP nominee against Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold in the November 2 election.

In a Campaign 2010 interview on September 1, Democratic U.S. Senator Russ Feingold said he is an “underdog” in his campaign to win a fourth term on November 2. Feingold also said his expected Republican opponent in November, Ron Johnson, is part of a group of conservative Republicans nationally whose goal is to “destroy” President Obama. On another campaign issue, Feingold said Johnson’s credibility was badly damaged when he said businesses – and not governments – create jobs, since Johnson’s Oshkosh business got help from a local government in the 1980s. Johnson may not have personally lobbied for the government help, but signed the application for it, Feingold added.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Mike Kuglitsch, Republican candidate for the 84th State Assembly District on September 1, 2010 at the WisconsinEye Studios.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Tom Larson, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with James Lewis, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Don Moga, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Tamara Deutsch, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Marv Prestrud, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Dean Gullickson, Republican candidate for the 67th Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the GFW Bloomer Woman's Club Forum held at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Mike Conlin, Republican candidate for the 93rd Assembly District, on August 31, 2010 at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire campus.

The GFWC Bloomer Woman’s Club is hosted a “Meet your Candidate” Forum on August 30, 2010 at the Senior Civic Center in Bloomer, Wisconsin. The six Republican candidates running for the 67th Assembly District seat participated, including Tamara Marie Deutsch, Dean Gullickson, Tom Larson, James Lewis, Don Moga, and Marv Prestrud.

In a Campaign 2010 interview in the WisconsinEye studio on Aug. 30, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ron Johnson said Democrats are trying to “demonize” small businesses by repeatedly criticizing help his Oshkosh business got from local government in the 1980s. Johnson also again said he has never lobbied for any type of government aid for his medical plastics manufacturing company. Johnson also discussed immigration reform, the withdrawal of combat troops in Iraq, the war in Afghanistan, and his comment that “sunspots” may be to blame for severe weather that some blame on global warming.

WTAQ Green Bay hosted a debate for Republican candidates running for the 8th U.S. Congressional District on August 27, 2010 in Green Bay. Candidates included former State Representative Terri McCormick, businessman Reid Ribble, and State Representative Roger Roth.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Dan Kapanke, Republican candidate for the 3rd U.S. Congressional District on August 26, 2010 at the Wisconsin Economic Summit Series in La Crosse.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Bruce Evers, Republican candidate for the 3rd U.S. Congressional District on August 26, 2010 at the Wisconsin Economic Summit Series in La Crosse.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Nick Charles, Republican candidate for the 95th State Assembly District on August 26, 2010 at the Wisconsin Economic Summit Series in La Crosse.

For the first time since he ran for the state Assembly in 1998, Republican Representative Jeff Stone of the 82nd Assembly District has a Republican opponent in the September 14 primary election. In a Campaign 2010 interview, Stone talked about that challenge, what he sees as his accomplishments, and his goals for the 2011-12 session, if he is re-elected. The primary will decide who goes to the Assembly in January, since there is no Democrat or other candidate on the November 2 election ballot.

MAGNET hosted a forum for Democratic Lieutenant Governor candidates to speak about their campaigns and the issues facing the next Lieutenant Governor. The forum included the following candidates: Spencer Coggs, Tom Nelson, Henry Sanders, Terry Virgil, James Schneider, and Dave Ross.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed State Representative Pat Strachota, Republican incumbent for the 58th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Joe Deklotz, Republican candidate for the 33rd Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed JoCasta Zamarripa, Democratic candidate for the 8th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed State Representative Peggy Krusick, Democratic incumbent for the 7th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed State Representative Barbara Toles, Democratic incumbent for the 17th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Chris Larson, Democratic candidate for the 7th State Senate District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Paul Farrow, Republican candidate for the 98th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Michael Olen, Republican candidate for the 14th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Chris Maurer, Republican candidate for the 14th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Dale Kooyenga, Republican candidate for the 14th Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Larry Gamble, Republican candidate for the 82nd Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Dan Sebring, Republican candidate for the U.S. 4th Congressional District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Ken Lipinski, Republican candidate for the U.S. 4th Congressional District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Sherman Hill, Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 10th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Stephanie Findley, Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 10th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Ronald Rieboldt, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 15th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Dave Nickel, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 15th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed John Marek, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 84th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed Dave Swarthout, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 84th State Assembly District on August 23, 2010 at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

U.S. Senator Russ Feingold (D) was the featured speaker at the Milwaukee Press Club Luncheon, held August 23, 2010 at the Newsroom Pub in Milwaukee. Senator Feingold spoke about his campaign platform, his history in the United States Senate, as well as commented on other Democratic races around the State.

Wisconsin Citizen's Involvement sponsored a candidate forum on August 19, 2010 in Kiel, Wisconsin for those running for State Assembly District 27. Republican incumbent Steve Kestell, along with Independent candidate Jack Lechler and Republican candidate Randy Meyer took debated major issues and spoke about their campaign platforms.

Continued coverage.

Joe Knilans, of Janesville, is one of four Republicans running in the 44th Assembly District. In an August 16, 2010 interview with Senior Producer Steven Walters, Knilans said taxes must be cut to allow businesses to create new jobs, and school districts should merge to save money. If Knilans wins the September 14 primary, he will face Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan, a Janesville Democrat, in the November 2 general election.

The Democratic Party of Rock County held their annual picnic on August 15, 2010 at Riverside Park in Beloit. Speakers included Rep. Chuck Benedict of the 45th Assembly District; Senator Russ Feingold; Scott Hassett, candidate for Attorney General; Lieutenant Governor candidates Henry Sanders, Tom Nelson, and James Schneider; John Heckenlively, candidate for the 1st Congressional District; Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan of the 44th Assembly District; Tim Cullen, candidate for State Senate; Rick Valdez, candidate for the 45th Assembly District; Roger Anclam, candidate for the 45th Assembly District; Janis Ringhand, candidate for the 80th Assembly District; Rock County Sheriff Robert Spoden; Jenifer Keach, candidate for Rock County Coroner; Rock County Clerk of Courts Eldred Mielke; and Senator Judy Robson of the 15th Senate District.

Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 45th Assembly District Rick Valdez, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Assembly Speaker and Representative of Wisconsin's 44th Assembly District Mike Sheridan, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor James Schneider, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Henry Sanders, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Tom Nelson, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Wisconsin State Assembly District 80 Janice Ringhand, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed Janice Ringhand, Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 80th State Assembly District at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's First Congressional District John Heckenlively, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed Rick Valdez, Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 45th State Assembly District at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 15th Senate District Tim Cullen, spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 45th Assembly District Roger Anclam spoke at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed Roger Anclam, Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 45th State Assembly District at the Rock County Democratic Party's annual summer picnic on August 15, 2010 in Beloit.

Republican candidates for governor, Scott Walker and Mark Neumann spoke about their platforms and viewpoints on major issues during a candidate forum held August 14, 2010 at the Olympia Resort in Oconomowoc.

The Holler Park Neighborhood Association in partnership with the Garden District Neighborhood Association hosted a candidate forum for the 7th Senate District on August 11, 2010. Incumbent Senator Jeff Plale of South Milwaukee and Chris Larson, a Democratic challenger in the September 14th primary took part in the forum.

The Democratic Party of Dane County hosted a Lieutenant Governor's candidate forum on August 11, 2010 at the Concourse Hotel in Madison, WI. James Schneider, Henry Sanders, Rep. Tom Nelson, and Sen. Spencer Coggs took part in the forum.

Travis Tranel, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 49th State Assembly District, spoke at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic for area Republican candidates and party supporters on August 4, 2010 in Lancaster, WI.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed Travis Tranel, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 49th State Assembly District, at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic held August 4, 2010 in Lancaster.

David Kuhle, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 49th State Assembly District, spoke at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic for area Republican candidates and party supporters on August 4, 2010 in Lancaster, WI.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed David Kuhle, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 49th State Assembly District, at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic held August 4, 2010 in Lancaster.

Dan Kapanke, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District, spoke at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic for area Republican candidates and party supporters on August 4, 2010 in Lancaster, WI.

WisconsinEye videographer John Schroeder interviewed Dan Kapanke, Republican candidate for Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District, at the Republican Party of Grant County's summer picnic held August 4, 2010 in Lancaster.

The Republican Party of Grant County held a summer picnic for area Republican candidates and party supporters on August 4, 2010 in Lancaster, WI. Candidates present at the event included Dan Kapanke, running for the 3rd Congressional District, and David Kuhle and Travis Tranel, running for the 49th Assembly District in Wisconsin.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Peter Theron for a Campaign 2010 interview. Theron is running on the Republican ticket for the 2nd Congressional District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Tom Lamberson for a Campaign 2010 interview. Lamberson is running on the Republican ticket for the 27th Senate District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Amy Loudenbeck for a Campaign 2010 interview. Loudenbeck is running on the Republican ticket for the 45th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Jeff Klett for a Campaign 2010 interview. Klett is running on the Republican ticket for the 45th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Scott Frostman for a Campaign 2010 interview. Hesselbein is running on the Republican ticket for the 42nd Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Doug Zwank for a Campaign 2010 interview. Zwank is running on the Democratic ticket for the 77th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Brett Hulsey for a Campaign 2010 interview. Hulsey is running on the Democratic ticket for the 77th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with John Imes for a Campaign 2010 interview. Imes is running on the Democratic ticket for the 77th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Fred Wade for a Campaign 2010 interview. Wade is running on the Democratic ticket for the 77th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Dianne Hesselbein for a Campaign 2010 interview. Hesselbein is running on the Democratic ticket for the 77th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Carl Skalitzky for a Campaign 2010 interview. Skalitzky is running on the Republican ticket for the 79th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Tom Clauder for a Campaign 2010 interview. Clauder is running on the Republican ticket for the 79th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Kenneth Brotheridge for a Campaign 2010 interview. Brotheridge is running on the Republican ticket for the 44th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Nick Voegeli, one of five Republican candidates for lieutenant governor, is asking all the voters who voted for him for that office four years ago to do so again in the Sept. 14 primary election. Voegeli, a CPA who lives in Sun Prairie, says the big-spending practices of elected officials in Washington and Madison has left taxpayers “in chains” and, if elected, he would push to cut state taxes. In an Aug. 3 Campaign 2010 interview at the WisconsinEye studio, Voegeli said he won’t ask taxpayers or special-interest groups for donations, saying that would be another form of taxation. He said he will rely on personal campaigning and interviews to win his party’s nomination.

One of four Democratic candidates for lieutenant governor, James Schneider calls himself the only “economic development professional” running for statewide office in the Sept. 14 primary.  He has worked with company and government officials to save and attract jobs in several southwestern Wisconsin communities throughout his career. In an Aug. 2 Campaign 2010 interview, Schneider said, if elected, he would ask the next governor to make him secretary of the State Commerce Department.  Included in the “four aces” Wisconsin can play in   economic development are the environment and the technical college system, he added.

One of five Republican candidates for lieutenant governor, Robert Gerald Lorge said he wants to end the culture of wasting tax dollars that he sees in state government. A lawyer and honey farmer from Bear Creek in Outagamie County, Lorge said in a WisconsinEye Campaign 2010 interview on Aug. 2 that he wants to freeze the salaries of all public employees – including teachers – to help fix a potential budget deficit by mid-2013 that could total $5 billion. He also wants local governments – and not the state Department of Revenue – to collect and administer the 5% statewide sales tax. Lorge ran for U.S. Senate in 2006 and 2004 and for secretary of state in 2002.

There is plenty of wisdom and insight into Wisconsin politics outside of Madison. That’s why WisconsinEye is interviewing political observers in key regions of Wisconsin. In the first edition of Campaign 2010 Corner Table, two professional students of northeast Wisconsin politics – Green Bay Press Gazette Reporter Malavika Jagannathan and Michael Kraft, a UW-Green Bay political science professor – discussed local campaigns with WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters on July 30, 2010.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Jon Soyring for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Soyring is running on the Republican ticket for the 1st Senate District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with David Hutchison for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Hutchison is running on the Republican ticket for the 1st Senate District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Tom Barrett for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Barrett is running on the Democratic ticket for Governor in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Russ Feingold for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Feingold is an incumbent Democratic United States Senator.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Dave Westlake for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Westlake is running on the Republican ticket for the United States Senate in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Andre Jacquefor a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 30, 2010. Jacque is running on the Republican ticket for the 2nd Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters interviewed numerous candidates for political office on July 29 and July 30, 2010 at the Wisconsin Coalition for Aging Groups Convention held in Green Bay at the Radisson Hotel.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Roger Roth for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 29, 2010. Roth is running on the Republican ticket for the 8th Congressional District.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Frank Lasee for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 29, 2010. Lasee is running on the Republican ticket for the 1st Senate District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Terri McCormick for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 29, 2010. McCormick is running on the Republican ticket for the 8th Congressional District in the September 14th primary election.

Senior Producer Steve Walters sat down with Craig Fletcher for a Campaign 2010 interview at the Radisson Hotel in Green Bay on July 29, 2010. Fletcher is running on the Republican ticket for the 5th Assembly District in the September 14th primary election.

Although he may not be as well known, Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Paterick has until September 14 to convince voters in the primary that he’d be a better choice than Scott Walker and Mark Neumann. A Wisconsin Rapids financial consultant, Paterick said he alone would make the tough business decisions necessary to fix the state budget, which faces a $2.7-billion deficit by mid-2013. If elected governor, Paterick said he would recommend “ruthless” spending cuts in some state programs,  pay down the growing state debt, and set up a “rainy day” emergency fund.

Exactly seven weeks before the primary election for the Republican nomination for governor, Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker predicted in a WisconsinEye interview that he will win that nomination on September 14 and be elected governor on November 2. He said Republican voters know that his record of fixing Milwaukee County’s budget problems makes him more qualified than Republican challenger Mark Neumann to take on the $2.7-billion deficit that state government faces by mid-2013. In the Campaign 2010 interview, Walker also said his goal as governor would be allowing property taxes to grow by only the national inflation rate when December 2011 property tax bills are mailed.

Millions of ballots - at a cost of up to 50-cents each - will soon be printed for Wisconsin voters, as they go the polls in the September 14th primary and November 2nd general elections. But what is the process that led to the names of 368 candidates for federal and state office being on those ballots? Why do independent candidates, and not Republicans or Democrats, get to pick a five-word statement of their issues or goals? And, why do 90% of voters cast optical scan ballots? Kevin J. Kennedy, director of the Government Accountability Board, and Nat Robinson, administrator of the Board’s elections division, discussed Wisconsin’s elections process in an interview in the WisconsinEye studio on July 27, 2010.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Candidates present at the event included Joe Kallas, candidate for the 6th Congressional District; Rep. Tom Nelson for Lt. Governor; State Treasurer Dawn Sass; Monk Elmer, candidate for State Senate District 1; Jason Bordon, candidate for State Senate District 9; Ted Zigmunt, candidate for State Assembly District 2; and Kerry Trask, candidate for State Assembly District 25.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Joseph Kallas, a candidate for the 6th Congressional District gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed Joseph Kallas, a Democratic candidate for the 6th Congressional District at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. State Treasurer Dawn Marie Sass gave a campaign speech at the event.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Monk Elmer, a candidate for the 1st Senate District gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed Monk Elmer, a Democratic candidate for the 1st Senate District at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Ted Zigmunt, the incumbent in the 2nd Assembly District gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed Ted Zigmunt, a Democratic candidate for the 2nd Assembly District at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Kerry Trask, a Democratic candidate for the 25th Assembly District gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed Kerry Trask, a Democratic candidate for the 25th Assembly District at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. James Schneider, a Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed James Schneider, a Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Henry Sanders, a Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor gave a campaign speech at the event.

WisconsinEye videographer Paul Schmidt interviewed Henry Sanders, a Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor at the Democratic Party of Manitowoc County's summer picnic.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic for area Democratic candidates and party supporters on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Tom Nelson, a Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor gave a campaign speech at the event.

The Democratic Party of Manitowoc County held a summer picnic on July 26, 2010 in Manitowoc. Scott Hassett, a candidate for Attorney General gave a speech at the event.

The Democratic Party of Door County hosted a forum for democratic candidates for Lieutenant Governor on July 22, 2010 at the Sturgeon Bay Library in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The forum was moderated by Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton, and featured the following candidates: State Rep. Spencer Coggs, State Rep. Thomas Nelson, Henry Sanders, and James Schneider.

Scott Hassett, candidate for Wisconsin Attorney General, addressed the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers' (IBEW) State Conference on July 22, 2010 at the Monona Terrace in Madison.

Republican candidate for Governor, Mark Neumann, held a news conference on July 21, 2010 at the State Capitol, to announce his plan for the "largest one-year tax cut in Wisconsin history." According to Neumann, his plan would include Wisconsin homeowners voluntarily paying a portion of their property taxes every month directly to their taxing entity beginning in 2012. Neumann said this would result in these homeowners' property taxes being eliminated for one year in 2011.

Republican candidate for Governor Mark Neumann, held a town hall meeting in Germantown on July 20, 2010. During the town hall meeting, Neumann took questions from those in attendance and spoke about his campaign.

Republican candidate for Governor Mark Neumann, held a town hall meeting in Cedarburg on July 20, 2010. During the town hall meeting, Neumann took questions from those in attendance and spoke about his campaign.

The Milwaukee Rotary held a forum with Republican candidate for Governor, Mark Neumann, on July 20, 2010 in Milwaukee. Neumann spoke about his campaign and took questions from Rotary members.

The Republican Party of Waukesha hosted a forum for the Republican candidates for Lieutenant Governor on July 20, 2010 in Waukesha. The forum was moderated by WTMJ's Jeff Wagner and included the following candidates: Brett Davis, Rebecca Kleefisch, Robert Gerald Lorge, Dave Ross, and Nick Voegeli.

U.S. Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R) held a town hall meeting in Brookfield, Wisconsin on July 18, 2010, along with State Representatives Leah Vukmir and Rich Zipperer. During the town hall, Broodfield citizens were able to voice their concerns and ask questions of the three panelists.

Tim John, of Oconomowoc, is the second Democrat on the Sept. 14 statewide primary election for the party’s nomination for governor. In a July 16 interview at the WisconsinEye studio, John talked about his uphill struggle against national and state party leaders who are working for his rival for the nomination, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. John listed key issues in his low-key “friend to friend” campaign as giving unemployed African-American men help so they can set up small businesses, the legal sale of raw milk, and support for same-sex marriages. John is running for office for the first time.

In his first Campaign 2010 interview since filing nomination papers, Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann said he would be willing to consider freezing state government’s growing debt load and wants to negotiate a compromise plan under which state workers begin to contribute for their pensions. Neumann also said the UW System should reverse its decision to give a $245,000-a-year job to Michael Morgan,  the former top deputy to Gov. Jim Doyle, and instead post the job to make sure it goes to the most qualified applicant.  Because most voters aren’t yet closely following the race for governor, Neumann also said 75% of his campaign will unfold before the Sept. 14 Republican primary.

After filing nomination papers to run as a Democrat for governor on July 12, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett proposed changing how Congressional and legislative district boundary lines are drawn every 10 years. Barrett said the Government Accountability Board, made up of retired judges, should have the authority to submit to the governor and Legislature new boundaries balanced between Republican and Democratic voters and, if elected state officials cannot agree, the board should have power to enact a redistricting plan. He said the current system protects too many incumbent lawmakers in Washington and Madison.

Congressman James Sensenbrenner, Republican from Menomonee Falls, representing Wisconsin's 5th Congressional District, held a town hall meeting on July 11, 2010 in West Bend.

Republican Candidate for Governor, Mark Neumann, held a news conference in Madison on June 29, 2010, to announce his plan for economic development that would pair Wisconsin's colleges and universities and economic development advisors to attract businesses and generate jobs. Neumann said he would create three 'Research Triangles' that combine "intellectual knowledge found on the university campuses, with research needs of the business world."

There are six registered Republican candidates for governor in November, but two of them – Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker and ex-Congressman Mark Neumann – get most of the attention. In a Campaign 2010 interview in the WisconsinEye studio on June 24, Republican gubernatorial candidate John Schiess of Rice Lake discussed why he is running and his campaign goals.

Democratic candidate for governor, Tom Barrett, toured the Waisman Center on the University of Wisconsin - Madison campus on June 21, 2010. The mission of the Waisman Center is to the advancement of knowledge about human development, developmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative diseases, especially through their research of stem cells.

In their first joint appearance since the State Republican Party convention, the two candidates vying for the GOP’s Senate nomination met in a joint forum on June 21, 2010 in Brookfield. In the forum, sponsored by ten Chambers of Commerce in southeast Wisconsin, Ron Johnson of Oshkosh and Dave Westlake of Watertown discussed health care, ways to keep Social Security from bankruptcy, their lack of previous elective office experience, and President Obama’s concession from BP that it would set up a $20-billion trust fund to pay damages from the worst oil spill in the nation’s history. The winner of the Johnson-Westlake primary in September will face Democratic U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in November.

More than a year after Wisconsin’s Tea Party movement started, leaders of it say it’s growing. About 80 groups were at a recent statewide strategy session,  identifying common goals and ways to achieve them before the November elections for U.S. Senate and governor. In a Campaign 2010 interview, three Tea Party leaders said they don’t consider themselves a third political party and they don’t – for now – plan to endorse candidates in the U.S. Senate and governor elections. Panelists were Tim Dake, of Wisconsin GrandSons of Liberty; Kirsten Lombard, of the Wisconsin 9/12 Project, and Mark Block, Wisconsin director for Americans for Prosperity.

In a Campaign 2010 interview, UW-Madison Political Science Professor Charles Franklin said many things have surprised him in this election year. He said he was stunned by the retirement of 41-year Democratic U.S. Rep. Dave Obey in the 7th Congressional District, for example, and the sharp attacks by one Republican candidate for governor, Mark Neumann, on fellow GOP gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker, the Milwaukee County executive. Franklin also said President Obama’s approval ratings have been stuck at about 47%, despite his major victory in getting national healthcare reform signed into law.

On June 12, 2010, the second day of the Democratic Party's convention in Middleton, the party's candidate for governor, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, gave the keynote address. Delegates, alternates and guests also heard from U.S. Senator Herb Kohl, attorney general candidate Scott Hassett, candidates for the offices of secretary of state and treasurer, and the four candidates for lieutenant governor: State Sen. Spencer Coggs, Assembly Majority Leader Thomas Nelson, Henry Sanders and James Schneider.

The State Democratic Party Convention opened on June 11, 2010, at the Madison Marriott West Hotel in Middleton. On the first day of the convention, delegates heard from State Chairman Mike Tate; Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan; State Sen. Pat Kreitlow; Lt. Governor Barb Lawton, who is retiring; Democratic National Committee Political Director Clyde Williams; White House Deputy Chief of Staff Mona Sutphen, a Milwaukee native; U.S. Reps. Dave Obey, Tammy Baldwin, Ron Kind, Gwen Moore and Steve Kagen; 7th Congressional District candidate Julia Lassa; U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, who is up for re-election this year; and National Democratic  Chairman Tim Kaine, and Gov. Jim Doyle, who is not seeking a third term.

Union members in Wisconsin are important foot soldiers for Democratic Party candidates, so they played important roles at the party's June 11-12 annual state convention in Middleton. Four of those union leaders talked to WisconsinEye about how they make election-year endorsements, ask their members to donate to back candidates and causes, and follow-up to make sure members vote. The four union leaders were: Mike Thomas, president of Service Employees International Union Local 150 and SEIU's Wisconsin State Council; Sara Rogers, executive vice president of Wisconsin State AFL-CIO; Doug Burnett, Wisconsin political and legislative director for AFSCME International, and Bryan Kennedy, president of American Federation of Teachers-Wisconsin.

Senior Producer Steve Walters previewed the State Democratic Party Convention with Chairperson Mike Tate on June 11, 2010, at the Madison Marriott West Hotel, Middleton.

U.S. Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin held a listening session on June 7, 2010, at the Waunakee Village Center in Waunakee.

U.S. Congressman Ron Kind held a listening session on June 4, 2010, at the Dodgeville City Hall in Dodgeville.

Congressman Paul Ryan held a listening session at Greendale High School, Greendale on June 1, 2010.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ron Johnson announced his campaign on a Monday and was endorsed at the state Republican Party convention six days later.  In his first Campaign 2010 profile interview with WisconsinEye, Johnson said the need to repeal federal health-care reform passed with the vote of Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold was a driving force in his decision to run against Feingold. Johnson also talked about how he started his Oshkosh business in 1979, his plan to spend millions of dollars of his own money to underwrite his campaign, and how he met with Milwaukee talk-show radio host Charles Sykes before announcing his campaign. To face Feingold in November, Johnson must defeat Madison-area real estate executive Terrence Wall and Watertown small business owner David Westlake in the September primary.

Mark Neumann held a news conference to announce his delivery of his petition with 25,000 signatures in opposition to the national Health Care Act. Neumann introduced his alternative to the national plan, “Wisconsin Prescription for Healthcare Reform.”

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention from May 23, 2010.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention from May 23, 2010.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including an interview by Senior Producer Steve Walters with U.S. Representative Jim Sensenbrenner.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including an interview by Senior Producer Steve Walters with State Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including an interview by Senior Producer Steve Walters with Rep. Jeff Fitzgerald and Sen. Scott Fitzgerald.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including an interview by Senior Producer Steve Walters with Sean Duffy, candidate for 7th Congressional District.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including an interview by Senior Producer Steve Walters with gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann out side the convention center.

At the annual Republican Party state convention in Milwaukee on May 21-23, party activists endorsed Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker for governor and Oshkosh business executive Ron Johnson for the U.S. Senate. Walker and Johnson face opponents in the September primary election for the party’s official nomination, however. After three ballots, the delegates could not agree on which of four candidates for lieutenant governor to endorse. This coverage is from May 22, 2010.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, during which Scott Walker was named the Wisconsin Republican's nominee for the state gubernatorial race.

Continued coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention held at the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on May 22, including speaker Karl Rove, former advisor to President George W. Bush.

Coverage of the 2010 State Republican Convention Opening Day from the Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. Speakers included Republican Chairman Reince Priebus, State Representative and Senatorial candidate Leah Vukmir, U.S. Congressman Paul Ryan, and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.

In his first Campaign 2010 interview with WisconsinEye, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said he would not recommend any increase in vehicle registration fees or the state gas tax next year, if he is elected governor on Nov. 2. The Democrat also there should be some path for citizenship for the 11 or 12 million undocumented residents of the U.S. He also said he supports repeal of the law that now prohibits construction of new nuclear power plants. If elected governor and forced to close a $2.3-billion budget deficit, Barrett said his top four priorities in doing so would be education, health care, Wisconsin’s prison system, and aid to local governments.

Gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett presented his plan for creating jobs at a news conference May 20, 2010 at Full Compass Audio and Video in Madison. Barrett said his plan puts more responsibility for economic growth on the governor’s office.

Mayor Tom Barrett spoke at the Milwaukee Press Club Newsmakers Luncheon at the Newsroom Pub in Milwaukee. The event took place on May 19, 2010.

Ron Johnson held a press conference on May 17, 2010 in Milwaukee to announce his bid for U.S. Senate. He is running against incumbent Russ Feingold.

Previewing the May 21-23 state Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, GOP Chairman Reince Priebus predicted that voters’ anger at federal and state spending and budget deficits means Republicans will win many November elections. In a Campaign 2010 interview, Priebus also said he assumes that Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker will be endorsed as the party’s nominee for governor at the convention, since Mark Neumann announced that he will not push for that backing. Neumann’s name may remain on the endorsement ballot, however, Priebus said. He also said Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan should consider running for president in 2012.  

Scott Walker spoke to the Waunakee Rotary Club at Rex’s Innkeeper Restaurant in Waunakee on May 13, 2010.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann announced May 13, 2010 that he will not seek the endorcement of the Republican party at their state convention later this month. The announcement was made at the Inn on the Park in Madison.

Former Wisconsin Assembly Speaker John Gard and former state Representative and Wisconsin Revenue Secretary Cate Zeuske joined candidate for Governor Mark Neumann at a news conference on May 12, 2010 in Madison. Neumann made an announcement naming Gard and Zeuske as co-chairs of his campaign.

Dave Westlake, a Watertown small businessman, is one of three announced Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate. In his first Campaign 2010 interview with WisconsinEye, Westlake said he is “proud” of Arizona for adopting its own immigration law to try and force Congress to pass a new national  immigration law, would vote to keep the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, and would support changing the Social Security system so benefits are not paid to the richest citizens. Westlake hopes to win the September primary election and then challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in November.

In his first WisconsinEye interview as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, Dick Leinenkugel said the idea of privatizing Social Security, which will begin paying out more in benefits than it collects in taxes, must be reconsidered as one long-term reform. A former Marine, Leinenkugel also said he would not vote to repeal the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military, saying that policy has worked. Leinenkugel is one of three announced candidates for the Republican nomination to run against Democratic U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in the November election.

Republican candidates seeking their party’s nomination in races for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, and Lieutenant Governor debated the issues and discussed their political philosophies on May 8, 2010 at the St. Germain Community Center in St. Germain, Wisconsin. The debates were attended by community members and was open to the public.

Continued Coverage.

The Outagamie Co. Republican Women, under the leadership of Barb Bieber, hosted a Lieutenant Governor candidates forum on May 3rd, 2010 at the Appleton Public Library. Four Republican candidates for Lieutenant Governor participated; business owner Ben Collins, State Rep. Brett Davis, former news anchor Rebecca Kleefisch, and Superior Mayor Dave Ross. The event was moderated by Chris Hanson, Hanson Benefits, Inc.

Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced his candidacy for re-election as part of a series of events around the state. The news conference was held on April 27, 2010 at the Madison Concourse Hotel in Madison, Wisconsin.

Dick Leinenkugel became the third Republican candidate to challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Feingold in an April 26, 2010, news conference in Janesville. A member of a legendary beer-brewing Wisconsin family, Leinenkugel resigned as secretary of the state Department of Commerce to run for the Senate. His work as a cabinet secretary to Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle will be debated as he campaigns before the September primary against fellow Republican candidates Terrence Wall and David Westlake.

Waukesha Mayor Larry Nelson was one of four mayors who lost re-election bids in the April 6 election. In a Campaign 2010 interview in his Waukesha City Hall office, Nelson talked about his achievements, issues that played a role in his loss, the emerging Tea Party movement, and running as a high-profile Democrat for a non-partisan office. A middle school teacher for 30 years, and a WEAC activist, Nelson lost his bid for a second four-year term.

Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mark Neumann held a news conference on Thursday April 15, 2010 at the Inn on the Park in Madison. He outlined his plan to cut taxes, reduce spending and balance the state budget.

Democratic Party members gathered on April 12, 2010 at their annual Founders Day gala at the Italian Community Center, Milwaukee. Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar were keynote speakers for the event. The event featured speeches by Governor Jim Doyle, Senators Kohl and Feingold, members of the Democratic Congressional delegation, and candidate for Governor Tom Barrett.

Democrat Henry Sanders decided to run for lieutenant governor to emphasize the need to create jobs of the future – jobs that offer careers that will keep the state’s new college graduates in Wisconsin. Sanders, who lives in Waunakee in Dane County, is one of four registered Democrats running for lieutenant governor. In a Campaign 2010 interview, Sanders said he started a non-profit organization and a small business to work on economic development. He previously worked for the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority and for U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann was interviewed on Mike Gousha’s "On the Issues" at Marquette Law School on April 1, 2010.

The Republican Party of Ozaukee County hosted a Lieutenant Governor candidate forum and debate on Monday, March 29th debate at the Cedarburg Performing Arts Center in Cedarburg. 620WTMJ Radio Host Jeff Wagner moderated the debate that included candidates Ben Collins, Brett Davis, Rebecca Kleefisch, and Dave Ross.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett toured Exact Sciences in Madison on April 28, 2010.

Dane County District Attorney Brian Blanchard said his nine years as the chief prosecutor in Wisconsin’s second largest county is one reason why he should be elected to the District 4 Court of Appeals on April 6. District 4 judges decide appeals from lower-court rulings in a 24-county region of southern and western Wisconsin.

Richland County Circuit Court Judge Ed Leineweber said his 13 years as a judge, six years as district attorney and experience as a private lawyer and small-business executive qualifies him to be elected to the District Court of Appeals on April 6. District 4 judges decide appeals from lower-court rulings in a 24-county region of southern and western Wisconsin.

Republican candidates spoke at the Waukesha Co. 60th Annual Lincoln/Reagan dinner held at the Country Springs Hotel in Pewaukee. Gubernatorial candidates Mark Neumann and Scott Walker spoke, along with Reince Priebus, Chair, Republican Party of Wisconsin; Don Taylor, Chair, Waukesha County Republican Party; and Rep. Rich Zipperer. Vicki McKenna, WISN Radio Talk Show Host emceed the event.

In a rare joint interview, former Republican Gov. Tommy G. Thompson and his brother, Ed Thompson, talked about their political choices. Tommy Thompson said he won’t decide whether to run against Democratic U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold until after an April vacation with his family, but predicted that would beat Feingold if he decides to run. Ed Thompson, the mayor of Tomah and the 2002 Libertarian candidate for governor, is running as a Republican against Democratic State Sen. Kathleen Vinehout, of Alma. The Thompson brothers also discussed their childhoods and lessons learned from their father, who operated a grocery store and head of the Roads and Bridges Committee of the local county board.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker was interviewed on Mike Gousha’s "On the Issues" at Marquette Law School on March 11, 2010.

Dane County District Attorney and Court of Appeals Candidate Brian Blanchard and his opponent, Judge Edward Leineweber, debated on March 10, 2010 at the Hilton Hotel in Madison. District Attorney Blanchard is seeking the open seat on Wisconsin’s Appeals Court in District 4, created by the retirement of Judge Charles Dykman.

Gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett and Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz toured small businesses on Monroe Street in Madison- Orange Tree Imports, J Kinney Florist and Trader Joes.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett was interviewed on Mike Gousha’s "On the Issues" at Marquette Law School on March 4, 2010. Barrett reacted to the U.S. decision that Wisconsin will not receive first round funding for "Race to the Top."

Ben Collins, one of four Republican candidates for lieutenant governor, explained why he entered politics after nine years in the military, which included tours of duty in Afghanistan as a Green Beret, in his first Campaign 2010 interview with WisconsinEye. Collins, 32, a Lake Geneva small businessman, is making his first bid for elective office.

The Wisconsin Realtors Association held its annual Realtor and Government Day on February 24, 2010 at the Monona Terrace Convention Center in Madison. Republican gubernatorial candidates Scott Walker and Mark Newmann spoke.

Gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett spoke at the Business Day in Madison legislative conference was held on February 23, 2010 at the Monona Terrace Convention Center in Madison.

Gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker spoke at the Business Day in Madison legislative conference was held on February 23, 2010 at the Monona Terrace Convention Center in Madison.

State Representative Brett Davis announced at the State Capitol on February 22, 2010 that he is entering the race for Lieutenant Governor. His two-day, six-city swing across Wisconsin began Monday in Madison. Davis has represented Green County and portions of Dane, Rock and Lafayette Counties in the State Assembly since his election in 2004.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett toured Lucigen Corporation in Middleton, WI as part of his Wisconsin Jobs Tour. David Mead, CEO of Lucigen, lead the tour. Lucigen is a biological products manufacturer. During his public comments, Mayor Barrett said that Governor Doyle’s climate change legislation will not pass in its current form and will need to be significantly changed in order to be passed.

Scott Walker, 2010 gubernatorial candidate, spoke at the Wisconsin Economic Development Association Legislative Committee Meeting on February 10 at the Madison Club, Madison. The theme of the event was “Getting Wisconsin Back in the Race.”

Three gubernatorial candidates spoke at restaurant lobby day on Wednesday, February 10 at Monona Terrace. Three leading candidates for Wisconsin’s open governor’s seat spoke to an audience of restaurateurs; Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, Former Congressman Mark Neumann and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

The Republican Parties of Rock County and Walworth County held a Lincoln Day Dinner on January 31, 2010, at the Eclipse Center in Beloit, Wisconsin. Speakers included U.S. Congressman Paul Ryan and candidate for governor, Scott Walker. Candidates for state and local office were also in attendance. The Master of Ceremonies for the event is radio talk show personality and political strategist, Brian Schimming.

On January 21, 2010 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that corporations and unions have a constitutional right to expenditures – including running ads – to influence partisan and nonpartisan elections.  President Obama said it opened the “flood gates” for special-interest money in those contests. But campaign-finance experts say that’s an overstatement, because corporate money has found its way into elections and the decision simply gives those organizations the same rights as individuals. What the ruling may mean for Wisconsin was debated in a Campaign 2010 panel that featured attorney Mike Wittenwyler, Jay Heck of Common Cause of Wisconsin, UW-Madison Associate Professor Howard Schweber, and Jonathan Becker, a division administrator for Wisconsin’s Government Accountability Board, which enforces campaign finance laws.   

Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker’s (R) State of the Economy Address from the State Capitol on January 26, 2010.

In a campaign 2010 interview, Republican lieutenant governor candidate Rebecca Kleefisch said her experence as a mother, former anchorwoman at a Milwaukee TV station and marketing consultant gives her a background to be an effective partner for the next GOP governor. Kleefisch, of Oconomowoc, is one of four announced GOP candidates for lieutenant governor and is married to Republican Rep. Joel Kleefisch. Democratic Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton is not seeking re-election.  

Gubernatorial candidate, Scott Walker (R) appeared at the Wisconsin Association of School Boards forum held January 20, 2010 at the Midwest Airlines Center in Milwaukee.

Note: Gubernatorial Candidate Forum Announcement On Wednesday, Jan. 20, the Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) held a gubernatorial candidate forum in conjunction with the 89th State Education Convention in Milwaukee. Due to a scheduling error, Mark Neumann, candidate for governor, was not present at the forum. The WASB takes full responsibility for the error and regrets any inconvenience this may have caused.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett visited the Wausau Business Development Center, an entrepreneurial incubator in north central Wisconsin. Mayor Barrett toured several companies, and discussed his plan for job and economic growth.

The friends of Representative Kim Hixson, Senator Judy Robson, Speaker Mike Sheridan and Representative Chuck Benedict gathered at the Speakeasy in Janesville for a fundraising event on Saturday, January 9, 2010.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Terrence Wall, who started his successful career as a Madison-area commercial developer when he was a college student, said in his first Campaign 2010 interview with WisconsinEye on Friday that he is running to head off the economic and budget “train wreck” facing the nation. Wall, 45, said he plans to spend between $7.5 million and $10 million on his bid to defeat Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold, who he said supports a universal health care plan that would destroy what Wall said is the best health-care system in the world. Feingold is running for his fourth six-year term.

Because the Republican primary for governor is still nine months away, gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann said he isn't impressed by analysts and commentators who say he's lagging Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker. Walker has been running for five years, Neumann said in a Campaign 2010 interview. Neumann, the home builder and former 1st District congressman, said he is in the governor's race "to stay."

Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, a Republican candidate for governor, said in a Campaign 2010 interview that as governor he would recommend repeal of more than $700 million in 2011-13 tax increases on highest-earning residents and businesses enacted by Democratic legislators and signed into law by Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle. Walker also said he would like for state government finances to improve so dramatically the $629-million corporate income tax could be abolished. And, he said he would welcome former Republican Gov. Tommy G. Thompson running against Democratic U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold next year.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced his Democratic candidacy for governor on November 15, 2009 outside of his home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After the formal announcement, Barrett also answered reporters' questions.

Scott Walker, Milwaukee County Executive and Republican candidate for governor hosted a "Rally to Victory" to mark exactly one year until Election Day on November 2, 2010. The rally was held November 2, 2009 at the Country Springs Hotel in Pewaukee.

Milwaukee Alderman Anthony (Tony) Zielinski joined WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters for a discussion about his intention to run as a candidate for the office of Lt. Governor. The interview took place on October 9, 2009 at Marshall Montessori IB School in Milwaukee.

State Senator Spencer Coggs (D-Milwaukee) joined WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters for a discussion about his intention to run as a candidate for the office of Lt. Governor. The interview took place on September 21, 2009 at WisconsinEye's Madison studio.

State Representative Brett Davis (R-Oregon) joined WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters for a discussion about his intention to run as a candidate for the office of Lt. Governor. The interview took place on September 18, 2009 at WisconsinEye's Madison studio.

Dave Ross, Mayor of Superior and Republican Candidate for Lt. Governor joined WisconsinEye host Steve Walters for a discussion about his 2010 run for the office of Lt. Governor. The interview took place at WisconsinEye's Madison studio on September 2, 2009.

Mark O'Connell, Executive Director for the Wisconsin Counties Association and potential candidate for governor, joined WisconsinEye host Steve Walters for a discussion about the 2010 gubernatorial race. The interview took place at WisconsinEye's Madison studio on August 27, 2009.

The Winnebago County Republican Party Annual Corn Roast took place at Town of Clayton Park in Larsen, Wisconsin on August 24, 2009. Local elected officials in attendance included State Legislators: Rep. Dean Kaufert, Sen. Mike Ellis, Sen. Randy Hopper, Rep. Roger Roth, Rep. Richard Spanbauer; U.S. Congressman Tom Petri; Dave Westlake, candidate for U.S. Senate; and 2010 gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker.

Mark Neumann, former U.S. Congressman (WI-District 1, 1994-1998) and current candidate for governor, joined WisconsinEye host Steve Walters for a discussion about the 2010 gubernatorial race. The interview took place at Neumann's Waukesha campaign office on August 21, 2009.

Scott Walker, Milwaukee County Executive and candidate for governor, joined WisconsinEye host Steve Walters for a discussion about the 2010 gubernatorial race. The interview took place at WisconsinEye's Madison studio on August 21, 2009.

Reince Priebus, Chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin and General Counsel for the Republican National Committee, joined WisconsinEye host Steve Walters for a discussion about the 2010 election cycle. The interview took place at WisconsinEye's Madison studio on August 21, 2009.

Charles H. Franklin is a co-developer and contributor to Pollster.com, and a professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin where he teaches statistical analysis of polls, public opinion and election results. Steve Walters, WisconsinEye host and former Madison Bureau Chief for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, interviewed Franklin about the upcoming gubernatorial race now that Governor Doyle announced he will not seek a third term. The interview took place at the WisconsinEye studio in Madison, on August 19, 2009.

The CFA Society of Madison invited Mark Neumann, candidate for Governor, and Jason Punzel, candidate for State Treasurer to speak at the Madison Club on August 13, 2009.  

Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, held a fundraiser at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center in Milwaukee on June 29, 2009. The featured speaker was former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gengrich.

Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker announced his bid for the Republican gubernatorial nomination on Wednesday, April 28, 2009. The event took place in Dane County at Henry Farms. Walker has served as county executive since he won a special election in 2002. He was re-elected in 2004 and 2008. He also served as a Republican member of the state Assembly for about nine years.