| High-tech executive Jack McDonald of Austin has formed an exploratory for the congressional seat currently head by Michael McCaul, the Austin American-Statesman reports. From the Statesman: ... an Austin high-tech executive, John T. “Jack” McDonald, confirmed today that he’s started a federal exploratory committee in advance of likely running for McCaul’s seat as a Democrat next year—regardless of whether McCaul, R-Austin, hunts a fourth two-year term.
But the 45-year-old lawyer-business, who’s ceo of Austin-based Perficient, said he and his wife, Carla, have been encouraged by Democrats, independents and Republicans who’d like to see someone with business experience in Congress at a time the national and international economy need attention.
McDonald, who’s been involved in luring companies to Central Texas in roles with the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and other civic ventures, said: “I’m in this race because I think we can do better than what we’ve got today. We need people in Washington that understand the way the real world works—-people who have created jobs, who have run a business… I don’t think we have that kind of leadership in Congress today.”
While he wasn’t laying out an entire platform in our conversation, McDonald said he’d focus on setting politicies out of Washington promoting job creation by small businesses. He mentioned Small Business Administration loans, reduced capital gains taxes and steps that would promote capital and venture capital formation.
I had the chance to sit down with Mr. McDonald a few weeks ago and I was very, very impressed. He is a rare candidate: one who has impressive progressive credentials but can also appeal to the Independents and moderate Republicans he will need to win in this district. McDonald will be able to raise serious money (perhaps even as much as $3 million) and could make this one of the top national pick up opportunities for Democrats. All Texas Democrats should be excited about this race. We have a candidate who will not only make a great congressman but has the talent and resources needed to actually win the race. Mike McCaul has said he will seek re-election but do not be surprised if he reconsiders and jumps into the race for Attorney General once McDonald's fundraising ability becomes apparent. Take a moment and visit www.jackforcongress.com. Update: Mean Rachel and Rob Ryland bring up several good points in the comments. Though he has contributed a substantial amount of money to Democrats in recent years, McDonald contributed to both of George W. Bush's presidential campaigns. While the amount of money he has contributed to Democrats greatly outweighs the money he gave to Republicans, it is still an issue his campaign will need to address in the coming months before the Democratic primary. |
