| Marc Katz, the Katz's Deli owner who lost a 2003 bid to be Austin's mayor, announced yesterday he would run for the Democratic nomination for Lt. Governor. Katz, a New York City native who has lived in Texas since the mid-1970s, becomes the first Democrat to enter the race. The Republican field is not entirely set either, as incumbent David Dewhurst continues to weigh a Senate bid (or await an appointment). If Dewhurst does not run for reelection, Attorney General Greg Abbott is widely expected to run for Lt. Gov. From the Austin American-Statesman: “I know that I can make a huge difference for Texas,” Katz said. “Being the Pastrami King and lieutenant governor is similar. Decisions should be made on the basis of what’s best for this state. As a small business owner I understand that. “There’s been enough decisions, and that’s all there’s been. There’s been no action.” In his campaign, Katz said he intends to stress health care reform, increased teacher pay and lower taxes for smaller businesses. “This state needs to run like a business” Katz said. “Teachers should be the most elite profession, but they’re not. There are counties in this state without a doctor. Let’s show a bottom line. If you could show me where you’re making the state better, we could afford you. Otherwise, we can’t.”
Katz also told the Statesman he expected to raise as much as $10 million for the race and would focus primarily on "$50 and $100 donations." Democrats finally have a candidate for Lt. Governor. Whether it is the one the party will ultimately nominate, however, remains to be seen. |
