Here & Now

Scott Walker Gets Evolution Question In London

Frederica Freyberg: Governor Scott Walker wrapped up his trade trip to London, but the evolution question continued to dog the Governor, even as the scientific Theory was celebrated back at home. Earlier in the trap, a British moderator asked him whether he believed in evolution.

British Moderator: It’s sort of a tradition now to ask visiting senior republicans that come to London. And it’s not about cheese, adit’s not about foreign affairs. It’s actually about evolution. Are you comfortable with the idea of evolution? Do you believe in it? Do you accept it?

Scott Walker: For me, I’m going to punt on that one, as well.

British Moderator: No. Really?

Frederica Freyberg: The Governor didn’t answer, saying he was there on official state business pertaining to trade and investment.Following that, his campaign put out a statement from him saying, “Both science and my faith dictate my belief that we are created by God. I believe faith and science are compatible and go hand in hand.” Walker later held a conference call with Wisconsin reporters, who pressed the question, asking no less than four times whether he believes evolution is true.Still, no answer.

Scott Walker: I’m just pointing out in four years it wasn’t important enough for you or anybody else involved to ask. It obviously isn’t an important part of being Governor. My duties as Governor right now are on trade and investment and I’ll just leave the statement from the campaign speak for itself.

Frederica Freyberg: Meanwhile, even as the Governor dodged evolution questions and discussed UW-System budget cuts with reporters, UW-Madison was holding its annual Darwin Day celebration on campus, marking the birthday of British scientist Charles Darwin and his Theory of Evolution.

Nicole Perna: We think a better understanding of evolution translates to overall better scientific literacy and a better understanding of the world.