LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Walker told supporters that his survival was an affirmation of political "courage.

"Tonight, we tell Wisconsin, we tell our country and we tell people all across the globe that voters really do want leaders who stand up and make the tough decisions," he said.

Many saw the victory symbolic as representing a generation of reform-minded conservatives. The outcome in Wisconsin proved to be an egregious setback to Democrats and labor groups that had sought the Republican governor's ouster over the collective bargaining law.

Millions in funds had flowed into Wisconsin -- both in favor and in opposition of Walker, reflecting the high stakes in the race.

In his concession to Walker, Barrett pleaded for unity from his supporters. "We are a state that has been deeply divided and it is up to all of us, our side and their side, to listen. To listen to each other and to try to do what is right for everyone in this state," Barrett told his supporters.

"The state remains divided and it is my hope that while we have lively debates, a lively discourse which is healthy in any democracy, that those who are victorious tonight, as well as those of us who are not victorious tonight, can at the end of the day do what is right for Wisconsin families."

While Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney didn't involve himself in the campaign, he did welcome Walker's victory.

"Governor Walker has demonstrated over the past year what sound fiscal policies can do to turn an economy around, and I believe that in November voters across the country will demonstrate that they want the same in Washington, D.C.," Romney said in a statement. "Tonight's results will echo beyond the borders of Wisconsin."

The statewide fervor, either for or against Walker ran high in Tuesday's vote. Most voters had made up their minds before May, and few voters who identified either as a Democrat or Republican crossed party lines to support a different candidate.

Walker's clout within the GOP hit an apex with his relatively commanding victory this week.

Walker closed his campaign by touching little on the initial battle over collective bargaining. Instead, he turned his attention towards positive job reports since he took office, and the improved state budget situation. He argued that voters had tired of the recall efforts, which resulted in the ouster of several state senators last summer.

© 2012, Catholic Online. Distributed by NEWS CONSORTIUM.