Democratic field gets crowded in governor race [Texas]

Houston Chronicle | Sept. 5, 2009 | R.G. RATCLIFFE

[deport]

Democratic field gets crowded in governor race
Meanwhile, a lack of enthusiam for down-ballot races causes concern

AUSTIN — The field of Democratic candidates for governor continues to grow, but the question remains whether there is an elephant slayer in the bunch.

And below the governor's race, there has been no groundswell of candidates working to build a ticket for down-ballot offices that could have a major impact on redistricting in 2011, when Texas is expected to gain four seats in Congress.

This lack of a prairie fire for Texas Democrats is smoldering as the Democratic National Committee is coming to Austin for three days, beginning Sept. 10, to demonstrate that the Lone Star State is emerging Democratic territory.
..........

That hasn't stopped the growing field of Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls. They included Ambassador Tom Schieffer, Tyler rancher Hank Gilbert, ex- Railroad Commission nominee Mark Thompson, teacher Felix Alvarado and satirist Kinky Friedman.

Now, Houston hair-care millionaire businessman Farouk Shami is considering entering the race, optimistic that Democrats can win. Montgomery County records show Shami did not vote in 2008, and the only primary he has voted in was the 2000 Republican primary.

“I looked at both parties, and I chose the Democrats,” Shami said. “I believe in what they believe, and I believe they need leadership, and I think I'm capable of doing that.”
.......

Winning down-ballot races could be important for Democrats because if redistricting fails in the Legislature, legislative districts will be drawn by the Legislative Redistricting Board, which consists of the lieutenant governor, the House speaker, the attorney general, the land commissioner and the comptroller.

Republicans showed in 2003 that the LRB could be used to create a partisan advantage in the House that could then be used in the following Legislature to create highly partisan congressional districts.

end snips

[deport]

Redistricting is an important part of the upcoming Mar. 2, 2010 primary. That election will help determine Texas' future as to state and congressional districts. In the State House the GOP holds a 76-74 advantage but the State Senate appears safe at 19-12 GOP.

[BuckeyeTexan]

Ping

Freepmail me or ping me from the original thread to get on/off the 2010 Texas Governor's Race ping list.

[BuckeyeTexan]

Where was KBH when down-ticket Republicans needed her to campaign in 2008?

[deport]

Where was KBH when down-ticket Republicans needed her to campaign in 2008?

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Probably like Perry..... No one wanted them around their campaigns.

[A.A. Cunningham]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/hotstories/6603657.html

[deport]

Thanks... I left that out.

[Proud_texan]

"....and satirist Kinky Friedman"

Whoops, guess we won't get the usual cadre of "I sure wish Kinky would have won last election."

If God made a bigger rat than Friedman I've never met him.

[dusttoyou]

LOL....
Another Yeller Dog circus. A raghead throws in then here comes ol Kinky again!! Man, this beats Comedy Central.
Maybe sweet little KBH can jump in with her “moderate-ness”.