Former 1-Term Gov. Roy Barnes Enters 2010 GA Governor's Race
Roy Barnes announced June 3rd that he intends to become the first former Georgia governor in a half-century to reclaim the office after being turned out by voters. Barnes enters a field of three Democrat challengers: Attorney General Thurbert Baker, House Minority Leader DuBose Porter, and David Poythress, former commander of the Georgia National Guard.
According to the AJC:
Polling in anticipation of a Barnes return indicates the former governor becomes the immediate favorite in the primary, though he also carries the burdens that caused voters to reject his bid for a second term -- teachers who resented his attack on a tenure system, Confederate enthusiasts angered by his hauling down the '56 state flag, and residents found themselves the path of a now- defunct Northern Arc.
But Barnes also brings to the race a well-known name that resonates with many voters, including African-Americans, an ability to raise cash, and -- perhaps most important in a down economy -- the ability to invest substantial dollars in his own campaign.
Barnes' entry into the race is also likely to help fill out down-ballot contests. No Democrat has yet to enter the race for lieutenant governor. State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond, a Barnes ally, has been mentioned as a possibility.
So how do you feel about this? What value do you feel he brings to the table if any other than what you have mentioned i.e. what are or might be his strong suits as a governor?
June 16, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Don't think Roy has a prayer. He made a lot of enimies as Sec of Ed
June 16, 2009 4:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
IF Roy is elected (which would be a miracle in and of itself) it will just be a 3rd Sonny term. Roy Barnes is about as progressive as Zell Miller is.
June 16, 2009 5:14 PM | Reply | Permalink