If you buy into Gardner Selby's article in this past Thursday's Austin American-Statesman then perhaps Texas Monthly's Freshman of the Year might be an interesting addition to an already packed field of Democratic candidates for governor:
This scenario might seem wacky.
But it's arguably worth mulling precisely because Democrats lack top-of-the-ballot heft. That is, few credible aspirants for statewide nonjudicial posts, outside of governor, have emerged.
So I'd start by penciling in Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa of McAllen for state agriculture commissioner, Sen. Eddie Lucio of Brownsville for land commissioner, Sen. Royce West of Dallas for attorney general, Sen. Leticia Van de Putte of San Antonio for state comptroller and Sen. Judith Zaffirini of Laredo for lieutenant governor.
And to spice up the governor's race, I'd coax in youthful first-term Sen. Wendy Davis of Fort Worth or nudge in Sen. Mario Gallegos of Houston to age the field.
In fairness to Selby he did admit this scenario "might be wacky." I agree, it is, but kudos for thinking outside the box; although we all have heard at least some of these senators listed as possible candidates for statewide office before. But I would cross Davis, who just added an award from the Texas Municipal League to her 81st legislative trophy cabinet this week, off any list for statewide office.
By no means do I say that because Senator Davis is incapable of being a fine candidate for statewide office---quite the opposite in fact. Wendy Davis is an outstanding person and a well credentialed politician that would make a formidable candidate statewide; however, it is way too soon for her to show aspirations beyond seeking another full-term to represent Senate District 10 in 2012. I do believe that female candidates, whether Democrat or Republican, do quite well in Texas. Davis has a great resume to boot and many 81st legislative accomplishments to tout on the campaign trail. But if she were to run statewide, and lose, her constituents in Tarrant County are very likely to strike her with the hex of, "ambitious beyond taking care of the needs of her constituents in senate district 10." That would be an ugly campaign mailer by her opponent.
Thanks for the idea, Gardner, but Tarrant County will keep Senator Davis all to ourselves---for now. |
