Tuesday, March 17th, 2009...3:24 pm
Bradley for Governor?
The first I heard about this was from a reporter the other day. Rep. Dave Bradley has opened an exploratory committee, but did not list an office that he is seeking. It’s like the Thing: Mystery of the Desert.
I spoke to Bradley today, he said that there are three doors (yep, Monty Hall style). One is the governor’s office, one is the state senate, one is “go home.” The state senate seat is currently occupied by Paula Aboud, who is planning on running for another term. Bradley told the Arizona Capitol Times that he would rather not have a primary contest, but he is considering that as an option.
The governor’s race is the other possibility. Bradley, if he wins, would be the first Tucsonan to be elected governor since Raúl Castro back in 1974. It would make matters complicated for Terry Goddard, whose Tucson roots likely have made a big win in Pima County a part of his primary strategy. Bradley being in the race could be valuable. His background running La Paloma Family Services have made him an effective spokesman for social programs. It would be nice to see someone with personal stories about what the budget cuts mean for needy families being part of the discussion.
17 Comments
March 17th, 2009 at 4:25 pm
Ted,
I see on the Sec. of State website that you have filed to run for Dave’s open seat in LD 28. I am looking foward to meeting you in person on the campaign trail. Thank you for your concern for our comunity.
Gene
March 17th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Bradley is smart, knows the way the game is played in Phoenix and is a passionate, articulate speaker. He should get a serious look from all Arizona Democrats. I think he offers a lot as a gubernatorial candidate, especially given the fact that he would smoke Brewer in a debate. He is a fresh and compelling alternative to either Goddard or Pederson.
March 17th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
With all due respect to Rep. Bradley, who is and has been a fine public servant, he has absolutely no viability as a Gubernatorial candidate. While he may hurt Goddard in Pima, I actually don’t think he would affect even that small segment of the election.
March 18th, 2009 at 7:17 am
Sorry to say but Rep. Bradley doesn’t have the charisma or guts it takes to be Governor.
March 18th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Why are all the Democratic candidates lining up to run for Governor and not for Senator?
I know McCain is supposed to be a tough take down, but heck, every figured that Liddy Dole couldn’t be beat in N.C. (and a lot of that state’s top Democrats took a pass on running against her last time) and the result is that the Democrat who finally did run against her is now in the U.S. Senate.
March 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Sorry to say but Rep. Bradley doesn’t have the charisma or guts it takes to be Governor, From Carol.
So Carol How do you know that Rep Bradley does not have the charisma or guts. Who are u Carol to say anything about guts. Do you know the man what he stands for and what he can do for the Great State of Az. I know deep down that the state needs a new and fresh approach to state goverment.
March 18th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Bradley would be great for Arizona. A veteran of our armed forces and tremendous public speaker. This guy has a lot of talent and an educational and business background that is truly rare in a public servant. I hope he runs I hope he brings his strong convictions and care for the children of our state.
Goddard is 1990’s Bradley would be the future. Pima County would come out strong for Bradley I am sure of that. He is beloved in his district by many. He has helped thousands of children and he has great stock with the families and people he has helped over 20 years.
March 18th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Yes, but where is Bradley on the Election Integrity Issue? He has been silent. This is an issue of CRITICAL IMPORTANCE! to all of us in Pima County and it is unlikely that he can win here without it.
March 18th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
This is a no brainer, David Bradley would be an ideal man for the job and provides a much need voice for not only the voters of Tucson and Phoenix, but the children of our State who Mr. Bradley has represented in all facets of his career. Mr. Bradley’s reputation and track record speaks for itself, and I think this is a brilliant move for the state of Arizona and its constituents. Bravo!
March 18th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
To add to what I said above in praise of Dave Bradley’s qualifications for governor, I also would very much NOT want to see him take on Senator Aboud in a primary. Not only as she been a terrific senator and fighter for Southern Arizona, but she has also been a hard worker and wise advisor to other legislative candidates. Those of us who live in LD26 can attest to the tremendous assistance Paula gave to our slate last November.
March 18th, 2009 at 11:48 pm
A champion for youth, families, middle class and business. Bradley brings a well rounded skill set and I believe the fact he has represented a Southern Arizona district will matter little because he is also so well connected and established over a lifetime in Phoenix.
I think Bradley, Downing and Aboud comprise a very accomplished and experienced team and I hope they all find a place in our State Government. Farley should be very beatable and I hope you win his seat. Honestly, Farley has to go.
March 19th, 2009 at 9:24 am
I agree Downing was a good legislator, but he is a bit of a grandstander.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Did anyone see how casually dressed Bradley was at yesterday’s Pima County Democratic Party Open House? He certainly didn’t act or look gubernatorial.
He is our state legislator in District 28 and we haven’t heard anything from him in 7 years. Has he taken a stand on election integrity as a former chair of the Pima County Democratic Party?
I rest my case, Jack Olson.
March 29th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
Jack, It’s a good a thing you aren’t an attorney — “I rest my case”. I did see Bradley at the democratic party open house. I believe he represented well, his style is good and I believe he was wearing a designer shirt and appropriate press pants. But with your keen eye for fashion, I suppose you’ll be your own judge on that. And you haven’t heard anything from Bradley in 7 years besides his articles in the citizen, star and republic and numerous public and statewide, local tv and radio appearances, speeches in committees and from the house floor. This guy is one of the most active reps we’ve seen. I’m surprised he made it to open house and I’m sure the event was better for it. Here’s example of a globally available stance Bradley takes: http://www.lapalomakids.org/aboutus.php
Lighten up Jack. It might be good for AZ to have a leader that can be comfortable and caring rather than stuck up and unapproachable. Barry Goldwater is one example that comes to mind when I see Bradley’s style. It’s also backed up with direct and honest talk from Bradley. I think Sen. John Kyl also has this same down to earth style and appeal.
March 29th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
LOL – I Just found this too. Hmm. Perhaps you should get this book too. Might have some insight on the man. So he’s also written and published a book. Looking dapper in the pic on back cover! It would appear the man owes a suit!
Mr. Bradley is the author of a book, Management by Essay, which is a compilation of essays written to this child welfare staff over a ten year period of time.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
Dave Bradley would make an exceptional Governor because of his understanding of the issues we face in Arizona and globally. We would have a person governing this great state, providing needed guidance and leadership. For too long, we have accepted being last in things that matter such as, education, child welfare, and healthcare. I say GO Dave and we are ready to fight for and with you.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:00 am
Carol is right. Don’t listen to what Bradley says about poverty and children’s programs! What happens to the working poor is a sideshow to the real issue: keeping well-fed activists happy on the election integrity issue. This is the only issue on the minds of the electorate and will determine the winner! Signed, supervisors Branch-Gilby and Roebuck