Unions get behind Barrett

Associated Press

Updated: May 8, 2012 9:48 PM

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Major Wisconsin unions that had endorsed Kathleen Falk in the Democratic primary for governor are now backing the winner Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

Barrett defeated Falk and two other Democrats in Tuesday's primary. He will face Republican Gov. Scott Walker on June 5.

Unions have had a rocky relationship with Barrett during his eight years as Milwaukee mayor, and some leaders urged him not to get into the race.

But following his win, praise came from the statewide teachers union, the largest union representing state workers and the AFL-CIO.

Leaders of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees says they will do everything they can to defeat Walker.

The recall was spurred by Walker's proposal effectively ending collective bargaining rights for most public workers.

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