Barrett energizes party

MIDDLETON - After wrapping up the party's state convention Saturday, democrats say they're energized heading into the fall elections. One big goal is keeping control of the state's top job.

"Jobs, or as I like to put it: jobs jobs jobs jobs jobs," Milwaukee Mayor and gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett said in his comments during the convention.

Barrett rallied Wisconsin democrats and emphasized the importance of the economy in this fall's election.

"The biggest challenge I think is the challenge for the state and it's getting this economy moving again and so what I'm going to do is talk about our plan to move the economy forward," Barrett told FOX 11.

Barrett says he has specific plans for cutting spending and bringing jobs to Wisconsin.

"My plan is to use a much more targeted approach and those companies that actually create jobs would get tax cuts," said Barrett. "So I'm tying the job creation and tax cuts together so that we deal with the issue of fiscal responsibility in the state and at the same time move the economy forward."

While supporters cheered Barrett throughout his convention speech, they also cheered him when opponent Republican Mark Neumann stopped by convention grounds to offer his perspective.

We asked Neumann about the difference between his plan and Barrett's plan for job growth.

"My plan includes lower taxes and less government spending, letting people keep more of their own money," said Neumann.

Republican candidate Scott Walker has been endorsed by his party. He was not at the convention.

However, with incumbent Governor Jim Doyle not running, republicans are hoping an open race will work to their advantage.

"The voters are going to have a very clear distinction between common sense conservatives or Tom Barrett, who really just promises more of the same," said Mark Jefferson, executive director, Republican Party of Wisconsin. "So I think republicans are very well positioned in the governor's race. And I predict we'll win in November."

Wisconsin democrats, of course, are also hoping for a win for their party in Madison.

"I think he's a very viable candidate for the democratic party. He's got background, experience. I think he will appeal to voters all over Wisconsin," said Cindy Fallona, a delegate from Kaukauna.

Unlike state republicans, democrats don't endorse candidates, and Barrett has no serious opposition.

Party leaders say that's an advantage allowing Barrett to save money and focus on his message not the September primary.