Bonner to run for Governor in 2010?
Friday, February 29th, 2008We know Charles Barkley has thought about running for governor of Alabama in 2014, but what about the upcoming election? Since Rep. Jo Bonner landed an assignment on the House Appropriations Committee, some in GOP circles are speculating this will set him up for a run for governor in 2010.
“Look, I love my job,” Bonner said. “I feel like this new committee assignment will give me a chance to – and I don’t mean in terms of bringing more projects back to Alabama – but I think this is a good fit, even though the environment is different and we’re going to have to make some tough decisions.”
With today’s announcement that an air tanker assembly plant will be in Mobile, Bonner could be riding a wave of popularity that would make him a viable candidate. But, Bonner told Lagniappe he wasn’t sure if he wanted to dedicate his focus toward a run at the governor’s mansion in Montgomery.
“I like what I’m doing, and I’m confident we’ve got a good list of qualified men and women that are out there that would be able to focus the time and resources in the tune of $15 million to run for governor.”
Bonner told Lagniappe last month he disliked raising money. He didn’t rule it out completely.
“I’m not going to tell you that I one day won’t consider looking down the road, but right now the road I’m looking down is being the best congressman I can be for southwest Alabama.”
For now, he contended it wasn’t in his plans.
“I don’t see a scenario. I think the person who runs for governor will have an obligation – on our [the Republican] side – to continue build on the foundation that [Gov.] Bob Riley has laid for us and I think there are a lot of people out there that will build on that foundation and keep us moving in the right direction.”
He dismissed speculating on what could happen in 2010 because he is facing a reelection bid for his congressional seat, even though he is heavily favored in the race.
“I just don’t think it just serves any purpose to speculate about an election that’s two years away, when I’ve got one that six month, seven months away.”