Gov. Walker Calls Recent Allegations In DPI Race ‘Bizarre’

Gov. Scott Walker says job offer allegations between two primary election challengers for State Superintendent are “bizarre.” But the governor says he’s focused on school items in his proposed state budget and not on next Tuesday’s primary race.

The superintendent candidates with conservative support, John Humphries and Lowell Holtz, are disputing whether Holtz proposed they promise each other high-paying jobs at the state Department of Public Instruction in return for an endorsement in the April general election. Walker told reporters following remarks at New Berlin West High School that the allegations are unusual.

“It’s bizarre. Haven’t seen something like it before. But to me, as a conservative, I think the most important thing I can do is not be involved in a superintendent’s race,” Walker said. “It’s to put forth the kind of reforms we’re talking about (in the state budget). “That’s what would have the greatest impact not just on education, but the quality of education.”

Humphries said he has the support of some former Walker campaign staffers and fundraisers. Holtz released more endorsements this week from Republican state lawmakers and conservative groups. Incumbent Superintendent Tony Evers said voters deserve to know more about what he calls the Humphries-Holtz “plot,” that Evers says includes the ability for potential school district takeovers as part of the promised jobs at DPI.