Hanna shows interest in governor's race

[ccharles000]

Oregon House Minority Leader Bruce Hanna said Monday that he is listening with interest to pleas that he jump into the Republican race for governor

"I can't help but listen to Oregonians who are crying out for leadership," said Hanna, who met with several business leaders in Portland on Friday. "I'm listening intently."

The Roseburg Republican said he is still focused on trying to increase GOP numbers in the state House, and he said he hasn't taken any concrete steps toward running for governor.

But Hanna did say he thought he had the best background of any Republican who is in the race - or is looking at the race.

Hanna said he alone has solid political and policy experience to add to his long business career (he now owns a Coca-Cola bottler in Roseburg). When asked about ex-Trail Blazers player Chris Dudley, who appears likely to run, Hanna said it is obvious that Dudley "has shown the ability to raise money."

However, Hanna added, "I really believe Oregonians are really searching for that blended experience...I think that's why people are talking to me, because I've had that experience."

http://blog.oregonlive.com/mapesonpolitics/2009/12/hanna_shows_interest_in_govern.html

[davidpdx]

1. The problem for the GOP is they don't have a credible candidate yet

for the Governor's race. The other ones that are running besides Dudley (who hasn't official announced yet) are Allen Alley, Bill Sizemore and John Lim.

Both Alley and Sizemore have legal issues. Alley got fined for illegal use of campaign funds to run a poll when he was mayor of Eugene. Sizemore is legendary in terms of his legal problems and the judgment against his foundation when he was sued by several unions. In fact his legal issues are still ongoing and he has said he may run his campaign out of a jail cell. Fun times!

Dudley and Hanna seem to have the least amount of baggage. If Hanna doesn't get into the race, they might get stuck with Dudley as the nominee.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_gubernatorial_election,_2010