University of Wisconsin System presidential hopeful Robert King is no longer in the running for the position, leaving only Ray Cross and Peter Garland as finalists.
According to an article published in the Wisconsin State Journal Wednesday, concern about King's conservative background "raised questions" for those on Wisconsin campuses and in Madison, in particular. The article cited Kings participation in the American Legislative Exchange Council, which is a promoter of "free-market legislation."
The article said it was unclear whether the withdrawal of King came before or after the campus-wide video conferences held by the finalists Monday.
A spokesperson for King told the State Journal that he was "honored to have been considered" for the position.
King will return to his position as president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, which he has held since 2009.
The decision as to who will be the next UW System President will likely be made after a full Board of Regents meeting Thursday.
