Tuesday, June 5, 2012
3:24 PM
Barrett encourages volunteers on their final push
As the end of Wisconsin's historic recall election draws closer, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett told volunteers they needed to "just keep going."
"This thing isn't over until 8:01," Barrett said.
The mayor said he was encouraged by "heavy" turnout, but emphasized the need to find people that had not voted, saying that, while it may be hard to believe, some may not realize the election is today.
The mayor called the race a "classic battle" and referred to it as a boxing match. He also told supporters he thinks democracy is the "the ultimate participatory sport" and encouraged all eligible voters to make their voices heard.
The mayor continued to downplay the national significance of the race, saying the recall started and should end as a grassroots movement. He added that he has been happy with the level of support from the White House.
"Of course if anybody wants to come here and help me campaign, I'd love to have them, but I never felt for one second that's what I wanted to do," Barrett said.
The mayor said it is hard to believe all of the work has come down to one single focal point.
"I think its good for the state that we move beyond this quite honestly," Barrett said.
He added: "We as a state cannot continuously be at each other's throats, we have to find a way to deal with the serious challenges and issues we have, and I really believe that I'm the one who can bring this state together."
Labels: 2012_recall_elections
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