Walker’s future

What’s next for Gov. Scott Walker?

The governor recently dropped out of the race for the Republican nomination for president after poll numbers plunged and fundraising appeared a problem. Walker painted the decision as one of leadership and suggested other candidates do the same.

Walker’s term as governor extends until early 2019, but he’ll have career decisions before the 2018 election. There is the very, very long shot to be the Republican vice presidential candidate. His performance in the debates seems to have reduced that chance to near zero. But in the past, there have been surprising choices for the second spot in national elections.

Would he accept a federal appointment in a new Republican administration? It probably would have to be at the cabinet level to satisfy him. Walker recently said he has no interest in a cabinet position. But it’s difficult for any politician to say “no” to a newly elected president.

Walker’s career choices might come down to the 2018 general election. Should he seek re-election or seek to get elected to the U.S. Senate? Republicans will be looking for a candidate to oppose Democrat U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin.

The presidential dream doesn’t die easily among politicians. Would Walker’s hopes of living in the White House be better if he were in the Senate? The national Republican Party will be more concerned about controlling the U.S. Senate than with who is governor in Wisconsin.