Wisconsin governor survives recall vote

Wisconsin Republican Governor Scott Walker survived a hotly contested recall challenge late Tuesday, despite strong opposition by Democratic opponent, Tom Barrett and union leaders who rallied for months against him. Walker is the first governor in US history to survive a recall attempt with his defeat of Barrett, currently Mayor of Milwaukee. Walker led Barrett 54 percent to 45, winning both the right to finish his term in office and a voter endorsement of his strategy to curb state spending, which includes the controversial measures that limit collective bargaining power for public employees. Barrett conceded the race, saying that while "the state remains divided," he hopes all sides will remain engaged to serve the interests of Wisconsin families. Walker said that while "bringing our state together will take some time, no doubt about it," he believes "there is more that unites us than divides us." The Wisconsin governor said he planned to hold a meeting with the entire state legislature next week. Walker's recall victory is an important touchstone for the Republican party's bid to win the White House. "Governor Walker has demonstrated over the past year what sound fiscal policies can do to turn an economy around, and I believe that in November voters across the country will demonstrate that they want the same in Washington, D.C.,"Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney said. "Tonight's results will echo beyond the borders of Wisconsin." Romney called Walker to congratulate him Tuesday evening.