Former Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber confirmed Wednesday that he is launching a campaign for his old position, becoming the instant Democratic front-runner in the open-seat race.
"I am running for governor because we need to fundamentally change how we engage with one another to solve our shared problems," Kitzhaber said in a statement. "I bring to this a set of experiences, perspectives and ideas that can help during this time of crisis," he continued, noting unemployment rates and high health care and energy costs.
Many Democrats had been eyeing the race, since Democratic Gov. Theodore R. Kulongoski is term-limited. But many had also indicated they would defer to Kitzhaber, who retains high name recognition in the state.
It remains to be seen whether Kitzhaber, who served as governor from 1995 to 2003, can clear some of his potential Democratic challengers and prevent new ones from entering the race, such as Democratic Rep. Peter A. DeFazio, who is regarded as a potential candidate.
One potential Democratic competitor, state Rep. Brian Clem, announced he will make a decision Thursday regarding whether he will enter the governor's race. Clem had previously indicated he would support a bid by Kitzhaber.
Democrat Bill Bradbury, former Oregon secretary of State, has been preparing a campaign for governor and on the Republican side, businessman Allen Alley is running and state Sen. Jason Atkinson is expected to be a candidate. Republicans are hopeful that Rep. Greg Walden may enter the race instead of seeking re-election to his 2nd District.
It has been nearly 30 years since a Republican won election as governor of Oregon. Though statewide candidates must still fight for support from unaffiliated voters, Oregon has trended Democratic in recent elections. Voters supported Barack Obama for president in 2008 with 57 percent to 40 percent for Republican John McCain.
CQ Politics rates the race Leans Democrat.
To follow the 2009 and 2010 governors' races, check out CQ Politics' election map.
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Comments
The next announcements you'll hear will be that both Walden & DeFazio will be running for re-election to Congress.
Posted by: NObama
| September 3, 2009 4:58 PM
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