I mean, it makes sense for the Democrats to run someone at least semi-credible just in case Perry wins a very blood primary
http://www.star-telegram.com/news/story/1194077.htmlHaving wrapped up his career as an ambassador under President Bush, Fort Worth’s Tom Schieffer is back home and pondering a run for governor – as a Democrat.
"I’ve thought about it for a while," Schieffer told the Star-Telegram. "I have not made a decision."
Although Schieffer served in a Republican administration under Bush – with whom he worked as general manager of the Texas Rangers – he says there should be no confusion about his political affiliation. "I am a Democrat," said Schieffer, who voted for Barack Obama in the primary and general elections.
Schieffer, 61, who was ambassador to Japan for four years, until Jan. 20, and before that, ambassador to Australia for four years, says he is thinking that he has something to offer in the seemingly already crowded gubernatorial race.
"I’m not sure the level of debate in the state is where it ought to be," he said.
As for the sniping in the GOP nomination race between Gov. Rick Perry and Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, Schieffer said, "I think it’s about to go down a petty, mean and nasty road."
Democratic activist Matt Angle, director of the Lone Star Project, said, "I think it’s very interesting that Tom Schieffer comes back after eight years abroad and immediately recognizes what a mess the Republicans have made of Texas."
The last time Schieffer – brother of CBS newsman Bob Schieffer – ran for elective office was in 1978, when the three-term Texas House member lost re-election in a redrawn district.
Update:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/APStories/stories/D96908E80.html
