Democratic leader blasts Walker over budget

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The Democratic leader of the Wisconsin state Assembly says a new projection showing Wisconsin faces a $143 million budget shortfall illustrates irresponsible action by Gov. Scot Walker.

Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca issued the statement Thursday in reaction to the new estimates from the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

Barca says Walker's policies have left Wisconsin fiscally unsound and caused the state to fall behind on the road to economic recovery.

Barca says Walker's economic plan isn't working.

Walker views the new figures differently, saying he believes the state is headed in the right direction after Republicans made tough budget choices last year to balance a $3.6 billion shortfall.

Barca is considering running against Walker in a recall election.