Mary Burke is an American businesswoman and politician who served as the Secretary of Commerce for the state of Wisconsin from 2005 to 2007. Born on April 30, 1959, in Madison, Wisconsin, Burke graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in finance and later earned her MBA from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Early Life and Career
Burke began her career in the private sector, working for several companies including the Madison-based brokerage firm, Blunt Ellis & Loewi. She later became the director of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce’s International Trade Division, where she worked to promote Wisconsin businesses abroad. In 2005, Burke was appointed by Governor Jim Doyle as the Secretary of Commerce, a position she held until 2007.
Education and Business Experience
Burke’s educational background and business experience have been instrumental in shaping her career. She has a strong foundation in finance, which she applied during her time at the Department of Commerce. Her experience in the private sector also gave her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by businesses in Wisconsin. Burke has been a strong advocate for promoting Wisconsin businesses and creating jobs in the state.
| Position | Years |
|---|---|
| Secretary of Commerce | 2005-2007 |
| Director, International Trade Division | 2003-2005 |
| Director, Blunt Ellis & Loewi | 1990-2003 |
2014 Gubernatorial Campaign
In 2014, Burke ran for Governor of Wisconsin, challenging incumbent Governor Scott Walker. Her campaign focused on issues such as job creation, education, and healthcare. Although she lost the election, Burke’s campaign brought attention to several important issues facing the state and highlighted the need for bipartisan cooperation in addressing these challenges.
Key Issues and Positions
Burke’s campaign emphasized the importance of investing in education and workforce development to create jobs and promote economic growth. She also supported increasing access to healthcare and addressing issues related to income inequality. Burke’s positions on these issues were shaped by her experience in the private sector and her time as Secretary of Commerce.
Burke has continued to be involved in Wisconsin politics and has remained a prominent figure in the state's Democratic Party. Her experience and expertise have made her a sought-after commentator on issues related to economic development and job creation.
What was Mary Burke’s role in the Wisconsin Department of Commerce?
+Mary Burke served as the Secretary of Commerce for the state of Wisconsin from 2005 to 2007.
What were the main issues emphasized during Mary Burke’s 2014 gubernatorial campaign?
+Mary Burke’s campaign focused on issues such as job creation, education, and healthcare.
What is Mary Burke’s educational background?
+Mary Burke graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in finance and later earned her MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.
