Trek executive wins Wisconsin governor nomination

Mary Burke
Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mary Burke attends the Rock County 4-H Fair, Thursday, July 24, 2014, in Janesville, Wis.
Andy Manis/AP

Former Trek Bicycles executive Mary Burke has easily defeated state Rep. Brett Hulsey in the Democratic primary for governor.

With Tuesday's win, Burke advances to face Republican Gov. Scott Walker in the Nov. 4 general election.

Hulsey was never a serious threat to Burke, raising next-to-no money for the race, hiring no staff and largely being shunned by Democratic Party leaders.

Democrats had hoped that Burke's entry into the race in October would clear the field, but Hulsey surprised them by announcing his candidacy in April instead of seeking a third term in the Assembly.

Burke had all but ignored Hulsey throughout the campaign, including refusing to debate.

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