Texas Governor 2010 - Kinky Friedman Planning To Run As A Democrat

[Sam Spade]

he could've won if he'd done that in '06!

lol

[Sam Spade]

Most of Friedman's support came from uber-GOP counties. He might've gotten MORE support from Republicans.

I'd bet more of his support was GOP than Dem, almost without a doubt.  I can verify that anecdotally, if nothing else.  Part of the reason why is because one of his main campaign themes was the "deport all illegals" schtick.

Of course, if he were to win the nomination as a Democrat, it would be highly unlikely he would run on that type of platform (especially as an Ann Richards/Molly Ivins Democrat).  And thus, his Republican support would go right back to the Republicans (they'd probably go back anyways, regardless of platform).

There was also a lot of Republican dissatisfaction with Rick Perry in Texas.  But the dissatisfied Republicans still preferred him in office than any Democrat.  However, since the race was not going to be close, they felt a certain amount of freedom to send a message. 

I also strongly doubt that Perry runs for re-election in 2010.

[Sam Spade]

Are there any high-profile Republicans in Texas who might be considering running to replace Rick Perry?

I would be very surprised if Carole Keeton Strayhorn doesn't run again, as a Republican this time.

That list would be very long.  Strayhorn stands around a 0% chance of getting the nomination.  I doubt she has many friends in the GOP after 2006 and I also doubt she would fair well in a Texas Republican party primary, which tends to be controlled by the right-wing elements in the party (as the only people who show up).

I should also add Kinky should stand around a 0% chance of winning the nomination, unless the 2010 candidates are the equivalent to Chris Bell in talent.

[Sam Spade]

Dewhurst is running for Governor and won't face a serious threat (as we know of right now)

The Lt. Gov spot may be much more competitive, with Jane Nelson as the frontrunner in many opinions.

I heard a lot of talk in 2006 that Hutchinson might run for Governor in 2010. Is that no longer possibly happening?

She may.  She may not.  Deciding about that is quite a ways away.