State Representative Leah Vukmir - Sullivan Comes Out as Early Backer of Lawton

Sullivan Comes Out as Early Backer of Lawton

September 16, 2009
By Patrick Marley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

State Sen. Jim Sullivan (D-Wauwatosa) has come out in support of Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton for governor at a time when most Democrats are staying on the sidelines.

"Barbara Lawton has my full support for governor," Sullivan said in a statement released by the campaign. "Lt. Gov. Lawton worked hard to create jobs in the state by bringing in a new industry and helping small businesses get access to the capital they need."

Most Democratic legislators haven't said who they are endorsing because the full field of candidates isn't known.

Lawton launched her campaign after Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle announced he wouldn't seek a third term. Other Democrats haven't said yet what they'll do. U.S. Rep. Ron Kind of La Crosse is considering a run, while some Democrats are encouraging Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett to get in the race.

Sullivan is facing what is expected to be a tough re-election campaign next year because of a challenge by state Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa).