Here’s another name to throw in the pot for a possible gubernatorial bid in 2010 - - Democratic Sen. Tim Golden of Valdosta. Golden told Insider Thursday he is “seriously looking” at a run but has made no decision yet. Even so, he said he thinks he has something to offer. "People are tired of partisan politics and they really prefer someone who will put policy over politics. I've been doing that for 18 years," he said. Golden served in the House from 1990 through 1998 and has served in the Senate since. He is chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus.
There will be a lot more names, no doubt, in the coming months. On the Democratic side, former Adjutant General (and former Secretary of State) David Poythress has said he’s interested. So has House Minority Leader DuBose Porter of Dublin.
Among Republicans, Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine already has declared he’s in the race, but Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle is out there working hard, although he hasn’t announced. Also on the speech circuit already is House Majority Leader Jerry Keen, and there’s talk of Secretary of State Karen Handel.
Early?
It may seem that way but it costs mega-bucks these days to run statewide campaigns.
And even back when it was cheaper, campaigns have started much earlier than this. When Jimmy Carter lost in 1966, he immediately began work on his successful 1970 run for governor.
Golden said he's aware of the likely cost of a campaign and isn't scared off, based on encouragement he's gotten so far. He said he thinks his pro-business record and support for education and health care initiatives would hold him in good stead should he run.(Insider Advantage Georgia)
