Barrett makes final stop in Rhinelander
Updated Mon., 6/4 – Gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett made a last-minute campaign stop in Rhinelander during a whirlwind tour of the state Monday. Barrett hit all four corners of the state in a last minute push for votes leading into Tuesday’s historic recall election.
More than 100 supporters turned out to cheer on Barrett, closing off a portion of West Frederick Street for a time beginning at about 2:30 p.m. During his address to the supporters, many of whom were sporting “Recall Walker” or “Barrett/Mitchell” signs and placards, Barrett once again stressed his reasons for running for the governor’s seat in this historic recall election–namely what he perceived as an assault on public employees.
“My wife teaches 2nd grade in Milwaukee,” Barrett told the crowd. “She feels like her chosen vocation has been demeaned by the current administration in this state. That’s why I’m asking for your help tomorrow.”
During his address, Barrett urged the supporters to hit the ground in the remaining hours before the polls open at 7 a.m. tomorrow, in search of additional support in what is predicted to be an extremely close race.
“I want each of you, if you can, to find someone who didn’t vote in the 2010 election,” said Barrett. “This election is about sharing the values this state is known for; value’s that we’ve lost lately. Find those people, and urge that to help bring those values back.”
Following his short address, Rhinelander Fire Chief Terry Williams gave Barrett a tour of the recently renovated fire station. During the tour, Barrett noted that his “good friend and colleague” Dave Obey helped secure much of the funding through federal loans and grants to help fund the renovation.
“Unfortunately that federal funding has dried up in a lot of this area,” said Barrett. “It’s a shame, because it was doing a lot of good in these smaller rural communities.”
Barrett said during the tour that he preferred last-minute campaigning to staying home in Milwaukee during the final hours of the campaign.
“It’s a lot of nervous energy, so I don’t think anyone in my family would want me around today,” said Barrett. “I’d probably just drive them nuts.”
Voting will take place tomorrow, June 5, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voting within the City of Rhinelander takes place at either the YMCA of the Northwoods or at the new Oneida Senior Center (formerly the Northern Advantage Job Center) at 100 W. Keenan St.
Too see more photos of Barrett’s visit, see our Photo Gallery. To find your polling location, visit Wisconsin Voter Public Access.
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