WAUKESHA, WI (AP)-- Scott Walker is vowing to fight for America's interests abroad and for his conservative policies in Washington.
The Wisconsin governor has launched his 2016 Republican presidential bid by highlighting his clashes with labor unions as his campaign taunted his Democratic critics.
The 47-year-old Walker embraced his "fighter" reputation as he formally declared his candidacy in Waukesha with his family at his side.
He becomes the 15th high-profile Republican to enter the GOP presidential contest, but claims to occupy a unique space in the congested field. Walker says he not only fights for conservative principles, but also wins elections and policy debates in a state that typically supports Democrats.
Through five years in office, Walker has enacted policies weakening organized labor's political power and became the first governor in U.S. history to defeat a recall election.
Protesters were gathered outside the convention hall as Walker made his announcement.