Walker says focus on Doyle

Milwaukee County Exec Scott Walker isn't worried about Mark Neumann or Tommy Thompson.

The only person on his mind is Jim Doyle.

Walker, who formally announced his campaign last week, said he plans to use the state convention as a launching pad for his bid, pointing out the 2010 election is now just 18 months away.

"Our message is 100 percent focused on Jim Doyle," Walker said.

Walker said he held a rally with campaign workers this afternoon in a packed ballroom to rally the troops as they head toward the campaign. His popularity with delegates was evident in the plethora of Walker stickers delegates sported, and he got a warm reception when RNC Chair Michael Steele introduced him to the crowd during his speech Friday night.

Walker said the campaign has locked down the overwhelming majority of the grassroots through his various visits around the state. He also said Thompson's recent flirtation with another gubernatorial bid would have no impact on his campaign.

Thompson told a Milwaukee TV station this week that he was waiting to see what Republicans got into the race before deciding if he wanted to make a run. He also considered a bid in 2006, but ultimately decided against running for the office he held from 1987 until his resignation in 2001 to join President Bush's cabinet.

Walker said many of Thompson's old backers are already in his camp and said he doesn't take the former governor's comments seriously.

"I think it's as simple as some reporter asking that question," Walker said.

Listen to the interview.

-- By JR Ross