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Former Rep. Ballard might say yes to run for governor - 'I've learned that you never say no' By
ANGELA GALLOWAY 7/24/03 Washington State - Clyde Ballard, a former state House member and longtime legislative leader from East Wenatchee, said yesterday he would welcome a chance to seek the GOP nomination for governor in 2004. "All I need is $5 million," quipped Ballard. Ballard, who retired from the Legislature last year, said he has been inundated in recent days with inquiries over whether he plans to run. It's been a "hoot," said Ballard, who acknowledges a Ballard campaign "probably is a very long shot." "But in my career, I've learned that you never say, 'no,' " Ballard added. "I would be very interested in being the governor. You could really make a huge difference. But the truth is, you've got to be financed." Incumbent Democratic Gov. Gary Locke announced Monday he'd step aside after his second term ends in early 2005, essentially triggering the 2004 campaign season. Also, former Insurance Commissioner Deborah Senn said yesterday that she plans to announce her 2004 candidacy for state attorney general within about one week -- once current Attorney General Christine Gregoire makes official her plans to run for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. |