Hotline On Call

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett will run for governor of Wisconsin in this summer's recall election against Gov. Scott Walker, the Democrat announced on Friday. His decision will trigger a competitive Democratic primary.

"This was not a decision I made lightly," Barrett said in a statement. "I love this state and I care deeply about our future. That's why I ran for governor in 2010 -- even though I knew it was an uphill battle. We ran a strong and energetic campaign fueled by your support and the support of thousands across Wisconsin."

Before facing Walker, Barrett will first have to get by former Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk, a favorite of organized labor. Barrett is disliked by much of the labor community, which means a nasty primary could be in the offing.

"I welcome Tom to this important race. I have been working side by side with citizens around our state for over a year fighting hard against Gov. Walker's extreme agenda," Falk said. "I have a plan to reverse the damage that Gov. Walker has done - by bringing back openness, transparency, and accountability to government. It's a battle to invest in education, repeal billions in tax giveaways to corporations, protect women's health care and restore integrity to state government. Wisconsin needs to come together and we need jobs, and I am eager to heal our state and move us forward."

The primary will take place on May 8, with a general election to follow on June. 5.