MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin’s largest public employees union
says it used poor judgment when it directed members to an Internet
video attacking Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett.
     In a statement on its website, the Wisconsin chapter of the
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
acknowledges the video was “over the top.”
     The video released last week incorrectly implies that Barrett
supported Republican Governor Scott Walker’s changes to collective
bargaining.
     In Saturday’s Internet posting, AFSCME thanks members for
sharing concern about the union’s decision to publicly air its
“disappointment” in Barrett. Yet the statement still criticizes
Barrett’s record.
     Barrett spokesman Phil Walzak says Barrett has made it clear he
supports full restoration of collective bargaining rights in
Wisconsin.
     Barrett is among four Democrats seeking to unseat Walker in a
recall election.