MADISON – Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton today became the first candidate in Wisconsin history to use a taxpayer-paid staffer to kick off a campaign for Governor.  The unusual move, which created significant buzz around the capitol, indicated poor judgment on Lawton's part and may well have been illegal.

"Whether it's been owning a business that refused to comply with environmental regulations or now using her taxpayer paid staff for campaign purposes, Barbara Lawton seems to think laws others must abide by do not apply to her," said Mark Jefferson, Executive Director of the Republican Party of Wisconsin.  "Since she’s using her Chief of Staff as campaign staff, no wonder she tried to get an additional position paid for by the taxpayers during the budget process.”

Jefferson said voters will be looking for a break from the current leadership in the governor's office, rather than elect someone who appears to offer little more than a third Doyle term.

"The Lt. Governor should not be using her taxpayer-financed office as her campaign headquarters.  She's off to a terrible start," Jefferson said.  "Her first act as a candidate for the state's highest office is only the latest example of her clear disregard for Wisconsin taxpayers."

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