Tom Schieffer on Watson Running for Re-Election

by: Matt Glazer

Fri Aug 14, 2009 at 01:39 PM CDT

The Schieffer campaign released the following statement on Watson's decision.

I welcome Senator Watson's statement today. He would have been a formidable opponent in the Democratic primary. I'm glad he has decided to run for reelection because we need men and  women of his character and capability in the Texas Senate. Senator Watson has much to contribute to the future of Texas, and I look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead.

Kirk Watson's Statement on Running for Re-Election

by: Matt Glazer

Fri Aug 14, 2009 at 01:02 PM CDT

There's been a lot of speculation about my plans for the next election.  Well, I've decided what I'm going to do, and I want to announce it to you all first.

I will run for re-election to the Texas Senate in 2010.

Countless conversations and a ton of consideration went into this decision.  It comes down to two primary reasons.

First of all, I really like serving in the Senate and representing the citizens of Travis County.  I've found a lot of success in the legislature, and I believe my service there is tangibly helping Texas and its people.  I have a strong role to play in building a legislative agenda that benefits everyday Texans, and in solving the difficult budget and redistricting issues that promise to make the next session a painful and politicized one. 
 
But more than that, I sincerely enjoyed my oldest son's high school years because I was able to be active and present in his life.  Our younger son begins high school this month.  I want the two of us to share the same experience his older brother and I did, and that simply wouldn't be as likely with me campaigning for and serving as Governor.

Despite those reasons, this has been a very tough decision.  It's hard, in part, because I believe I would win the race for Governor.  I'm excited and honored by the significant encouragement I've received to run.  Having seriously evaluated and analyzed such a race, I'm more convinced than ever that Texans want a change in the way our state government is working - and not just in the Governor's office, but in other statewide offices and the legislature in general.
 
Texans are looking for balanced leadership that puts people ahead of the big insurance, utility and private toll road corporations.  They want true public servants who don't just play politics, but instead lead by responsibly investing in the state's future.

Make no mistake: I intend to campaign aggressively for re-election and help bring new, badly needed statewide leadership into office.  I'm very proud that my party is working hard to win the trust of Texas voters and is ready to replace divisive partisanship with mainstream leadership.

I look forward to continuing my service in the Texas Senate.  Thank you all for your support and encouragement as we work to embrace and prepare for Texas' future.

Senator Watson has pledged to aggressively campaign for any Statewide nominee and help Turn Texas Blue. Watson had a tough decision to make.  He has been an impressive champion in the Texas Senate and his voice would have been missed.  His continued work and service for both statewide Democrats candidates and the people of Texas is surely a good thing.

As we continue to move closer and closer to Labor Day, we expect to hear more announcements on both sides of the aisle.  

BREAKING: Kirk Watson Running for Re-Election

by: Matt Glazer

Fri Aug 14, 2009 at 00:25 PM CDT

A statement appears to be coming imminently, but sources indicate the Senator has work he would like to continue in the Senate.  Watson was a vocal leader on issues ranging from voter suppression legislation to clean energy and environmental bills during the 81st legislative session.

Watson's name was initially floated as a possible candidate for Governor when fellow Senator Leticia Van De Putte discussed Watson's qualifications.  Not soon after, a few of us started Draft Watson to urge Watson to run.  The campaign was independent of any group, person, and the Senator himself.

We will have more details as the story develops.

This Saturday: Health Care Rally with Rep. Doggett & Sen. Watson

by: Ian

Thu Jul 23, 2009 at 05:19 PM CDT

This Saturday afternoon, you're invited to a local health care rally featuring: Congressman Lloyd Doggett, Senator Kirk Watson, Mayor Lee Leffingwell, Council Member Sheryl Cole, Former State Rep. Ann Kitchen, TCDP Chair Andy Brown and others.

Our goal is to make Saturday's rally one of the biggest in the country. Spread the word!

WHEN:
* Saturday, July 25
* 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.  
* Click here to RSVP

WHERE:
* AFL-CIO Hall (new location)
* 1106 Lavaca Street
* Austin, TX 78701  

Health care reform. Yes we can!

Possible Shake Up in Democratic Statewide Candidates Unlikely

by: Matt Glazer

Tue Jul 21, 2009 at 03:43 PM CDT

First, Bill White is dropping out of the race for U.S. Senate to run for Texas Governor.

Second, Kirk Watson is no longer even considering a bid for Governor.

The entire article can be summed up by this paragraph from the article:

The story line about White changing course in midstream is predicated on several theories including a growing school of thought that State Senator Kirk Watson of Austin isn't going to enter the field of contenders in the governor's race as some Democrats have been hoping he would to do in the near future. There's even been speculation in the past few days that Watson won't even run for lieutenant governor - an office he's had his eye on for months if not longer - and will simply seek re-election to the Legislature's upper chamber instead. Watson, a former Austin mayor who'd be the prohibitive favorite in a re-election bid if he had any opposition at all, could expect be an underdog in a race for some high statewide office in a state where Republicans will still appear to have the advantage at that level despite steady gains by Democrats on the legislative battlefield and in battles for top county jobs in major urban areas.

This is an interesting article to read at this point in the cycle.  Locally, Senator Kirk Watson has made it fairly public he won't decide one way or the other until the end of summer or labor day.  It is also a well known fact Watson is actively looking into the breadth and range of support he may have in a statewide bid.

In fact, his first statement after Leticia Van de Putte's endorsement highlights the timeline.

I am very flattered by Senator Van de Putte's confidence in me, and I strongly agree with her about the need for improved leadership in Texas.

I have a job I enjoy greatly, which is representing the citizens of Senate District 14.  Over the next several weeks, I will evaluate the role I intend to play in serving Texas after 2010.  That service may include running for and serving in another office or running for reelection.  I intend to give this issue serious consideration, and I do not anticipate making any decisions in this regard until at least sometime after the end of the anticipated special session of the legislature, and probably not until the end of the summer.

Watson doesn't need to be on a quick timeline to decide. Watson currently has $1.4 million on hand in his Senate account. On the other hand, Tom Schieffer announced nearly $800,000 raised and $200,000 were loans.

The fact that Watson has a fundraising advantage doesn't accelerate the time line for decision.

Also interesting is the fact White would be the one dropping down for Governor.  White has raised approximately $4.4 million total and John Sharp is under a million when you exclude the loans.

In addition, a White spokesperson says the Mayor isn't looking at the Governor's race.

Katy Bacon said:

Don't listen to the rumors. Listen to the more than 3000 people who've given financially, and the many, many more who have volunteered to help get Bill to Washington. He's not running for Governor. Bill White's running for U.S. Senate because Texans need a strong voice in Washington, someone who will put Texas first and who knows how to bring people together to get things done. With past experience in both business and federal government, Bill's the man for the job.

In addition, White wrote on his facebook page notes indicating he is still committed to the U.S. Senate race.

I respect Paul B, but my decision-making wasn't based on politics. Texas would best be served by a new Senator with the strength to what is right for Texas, the federal experience to hit the ground running, the business skills to help balance the budget, and the broad support to have real influence with the new leadership in DC.

Watson may or may not run.  However his timeline has been static and a decision isn't likely until September.  

White is a candidate for U.S. Senate, and there is no indication from the campaign or the rumor mill either Sharp or White will move to a different race.

The current reality is, Watson is exploring his options and White is running for U.S. Senate.  

Hutchison Has the Whole Wide World in Her Hands

by: Todd Hill

Mon Jul 20, 2009 at 00:25 PM CDT

Upon her resignation from the United States Senate, Hutchison will trigger a special election that already has two Democrats and a number of Republicans vying to fill a vacancy that doesn't exist.  If she resigns---and that is a really big if---you're likely to see a few more Republicans with larger financial war chests enter the race.  But I'm beginning to think that Kay Bailey won't resign from the United States senate, which would foil a lot of plans and political futures of several Texas politicos.  It must be so cool to be Kay Bailey Hutchison right now, holding the whole wide world in your hands.  But maybe that much power and attention is pissing off a lot of people too, particularly within your own Party.

I mean think about it.  David Dewhurst is eagerly waiting for Hutchison to resign so he can begin to run for her seat, if not fill it by means of a gubernatorial appointment by Perry.  He has already corrected his rather suspect financial statements and disclosed his investment funds.  Much like an individual or politician suddenly losing weight, correcting ones' statements and disclosing your riches is a sign of someone itching for a position higher than the one they currently retain.  Dewhurst runs, then someone wants to run for his spot, maybe Attorney General Abbott, and then someone wants to run for his spot, and so on and so forth.  Democrats are just as eager to play this game too.  We've heard Senator Royce West for Attorney General, maybe Kirk Watson for Lt. Governor, or even governor.  It's a snowball down hill effect.  That process hasn't been triggered yet though and I'm not confident it will, thus foiling the political futures of a lot of folks.

Read more below the fold
 

Kirk Watson Reports Over $1.4 Million on Hand

by: Matt Glazer

Tue Jul 14, 2009 at 11:07 AM CDT

According to some, Senator Watson is reporting an impressive cash on hand number, "$1,436,000, mas o menos."

Watson has said he will not announce his intent on whether to run for higher office or return to the Texas Senate until much later in the summer, but the money he has currently raised for his Texas Senate account can be used for a run for any other Texas statewide office.

This cash on hand number indicates Watson could be a formidable statewide candidate if he chooses to run.

For disclosure, I am supportive of the Draft Watson movement on facebook and any other format.

Senator Kirk Watson Remains Uncommitted for Statewide Run

by: Matt Glazer

Wed Jun 24, 2009 at 10:39 AM CDT

David Mauro speculated on the Travis County shake up and a couple of us even started a draft Watson facebook page.

While all this was going on, one thing still remained unclear.  Will Watson even run.

The inside Austin speculation has always been Watson would be a strong and formidable candidate and was seriously looking on when and if he should run for statewide office again.

Peggy Fikac caught up with Senator Watson and put the Senator on the clock. Watson has stated he won't make a decision until the end of the summer which should be around the time a special session concludes.

He went on to tell Peggy...

I am very flattered by Senator Van de Putte's confidence in me, and I strongly agree with her about the need for improved leadership in Texas.

I have a job I enjoy greatly, which is representing the citizens of Senate District 14. Over the next several weeks, I will evaluate the role I intend to play in serving Texas after 2010. That service may include running for and serving in another office or running for reelection. I intend to give this issue serious consideration, and I do not anticipate making any decisions in this regard until at least sometime after the end of the anticipated special session of the legislature, and probably not until the end of the summer.

With Senator Van De Putte's announcement yesterday, even though it was a decision not to run, expect the statewide roster to begin solidifying over the next 60 to 90 days.

Travis County Prepares for Domino Effect if Watson Runs for Governor

by: David Mauro

Tue Jun 23, 2009 at 07:11 PM CDT

When Leticia Van de Putte declined to run for Governor earlier today and instead threw her support behind the potential candidacy of Texas Sen. Kirk Watson (D-Austin), political observers in Travis County paid special attention.

Sen. Watson was already known to be considering running statewide, but the apparently orchestrated plug by Van de Putte makes his entry seem much more likely today than it did yesterday.

If Watson does decide to run, the Travis County Democratic primary will immediately become very, very busy.

Three local state representatives -- Elliott Naishtat, Eddie Rodriguez and Mark Strama -- are thought to be considering running for Watson's seat if he decides to run for Governor.

Naishtat would start off with a significant cash on hand advantage over any opponent and represents a vote-rich district. The Dean of the Travis County Delegation is the go to guy in the House on human services issues.

Rodriguez could mobilize small donors and has ties to activists countywide dating back to his days as Executive Director of the Travis County Democratic Party. Rodriguez is one of only two representatives who never voted for Tom Craddick for speaker and won a tough primary in 2002 in which he was heavily outspent.

Strama is a proven fundraiser and was Chairman of  Technology, Workforce and Economic Development this past session. Though his voting record is more moderate than the other two, he has turned what was once a swing district into a Democratic stronghold.

All three are well respected by local party activists and have distinct bases of voters that make all three of them capable of winning the seat.

Assuming two of them do decide to run, that leaves two open House seats that are likely to be hotly contested as well. All of a sudden, what recently appeared to be shaping up to be a rather calm local Democratic Primary with a few contested judicial races, could be on the verge of dramatically changing.

Of course, as Watson has said he won't make a decision until later this summer, we will have to wait to see whether any of this speculation actually comes true.

Leticia Van De Putte Opts Out of Statewide Run, Urges Kirk Watson to Enter Race

by: Matt Glazer

Tue Jun 23, 2009 at 11:55 AM CDT

Texas Senator Leticia Van De Putte has released a statement regarding the rumors about a possible run for Governor any other statewide office.

A few weeks ago, Senator Van De Putte sat down with Phil Martin and discussed the race and her thoughts on the 81st session.

Today, Van De Putte has announced she has opted out of running for any statewide office and further announces her support for Texas Senator Kirk Watson.  Watson is not a candidate for Governor or any statewide office at this time, but with this release and strong statement of support, Watson will be someone to watch in the upcoming special session.

Here is the complete release:

"Five months of speculation  regarding the possibility of me running for Governor has, quite frankly, been surprising. It started with nothing more than me not immediately saying 'no,' unlike in past election cycles, when asked if I would consider such a run. The reactions of thousands of Texans who encouraged me to give it serious consideration has been flattering.

"I have, indeed, given it very serious thought, and while I would love to believe, tongue firmly planted in cheek, that this pent-up desire on the part of so many Texans for me to run for governor is solely because of some perceived superior leadership ability and vast intellect of mine, I have to reluctantly admit that it's not as much about me as it is about Republican failures.

"This is about Texas' stunning lack of current leadership. Large and growing numbers feel betrayed by the Republicans they voted into statewide office, and who can blame them?  While Texas families remain concerned about genuine priority issues, Republicans led by Rick Perry continue to instead obsess about hyper-partisan issues, in order to grab more power for themselves.

"Texans still pay the highest homeowners insurance premiums in the country. Texas still has the highest percentage in the country of those without access to health care. Texas still has the second highest rate of teen pregnancy in the nation, and the highest rate of teens with a second pregnancy. And after years of Republican 'leadership,' not only has Rick Perry failed to address these challenges, but he and his minions have done everything they can to avoid addressing them in any meaningful way. Rick Perry, Kay Bailey Hutchison, and others in the Republican leadership have turned their backs on 25 million Texans, instead opting to curry favor with a handful of fringe Republican primary voters.

"If I believed for a second that it would result in a healthy debate of the issues of most importance to Texas families, I would today be announcing my candidacy for Governor of Texas. But we have all watched over the years as Perry, Hutchison, and other Republican politicians have launched their scorched earth 'say anything to win' vicious attacks against political opponents. To mask their utter lack of leadership, they'll do so again, and I decline to put my family through it. That I am a Latina would only serve to amplify their attacks.

"I will gladly work hard to ensure that a Democrat prevails in the election for Governor, so that Texas families can have a better shot at having a state government focused on the needs of Texans, instead of state Republican leadership obsessed with their own political futures, at Texans' expense.

"Prominent Democrats must put personal ambitions aside and very pragmatically nominate the person best equipped to win in November. Just because one can win the Democratic nomination for Governor doesn't mean one should, unless he or she is best positioned to defeat the Republican nominee in the fall.

"That's why I think Senator Kirk Watson should raise his sights and run for Governor. I've watched as Senator Watson has emerged as a leader in the state Senate on the issues of most importance to Texans. While staying true to Democratic values, he is a bipartisan pragmatic leader solidly focused on addressing the priorities of all Texans. I intend to lobby Senator Watson to run for governor, and I'll wholeheartedly support him if he does. But if he declines, Democrats should recruit and support someone who, like Watson, is energetic, pragmatic, focused, and smart; and who can fully energize Democratic supporters while also attracting a broad range of independent voters in every region of the state.

"The Republicans have had their day, and Texans have realized that the Republicans can't lead. I will be working hard to elect a Democrat to the Governor's office."

There are more than a few rumors circulating about when the Special Session will occur.  The most common rumor is it will start in the first or second week of July.  Once the special session is over, expect Watson and others to announce their attentions to either run or not run statewide.

Update:  A statement from Tom Schieffer on Van de Putte's decision.

Senator Van de Putte has been a respected member of the Senate for many years. She would have been a formidable opponent in the Democratic primary. I am grateful she will not be running for governor this year. I look forward to sitting down with her to discuss my candidacy because I believe I can be the kind of candidate she can support, both in the Democratic primary and the general election.