Walker says he'll stay; hints at re-election bid

Sept. 27, 2006 -- County Executive Scott Walker vowed in a letter to stay in his job until his term ends in 2008 and hinted at a re-election bid.

"Let me make clear that I will be the Milwaukee County Executive through the remainder of my term," he said. "As of anything after April of 2008, I have to defer to the voters of this great county."

Walker's letter to Supervisor James "Luigi" Schmitt likely will quell -- for now -- speculation and rumors that Walker will pack his bags and leave the county's fiscal woes behind.

Walker said he wrote the letter after hearing Schmitt wonder aloud during a Personnel Committee meeting whether Walker would serve out his term.

Although the possibility of Walker's departure has been widely discussed among both his allies and his adversaries, he took Schmitt's question personally.

"I might have expected such a statement from someone who constantly attacks me, but not from you," Walker wrote. "I certainly hope this was just a momentary lapse of judgment on your part and not a that sign you have changed your willingness to work with us."

To read the entire letter, click here.