Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Turner's In

Doug Turner, owner of an Albuquerque public relations company and campaign manager for former Gov. Gary Johnson, made it official today, declaring he's running for governor in the Republican primary.
Turner joins for GOP state chairman Allen Weh, state Rep. Janice Arnold-Jones and Las Cruces District Attorney Susana Martinez in that race. On the Democratic side, Lt. Gov. Diane Denish is the only declared candidate.

In a news release, Turner, a self-described moderate, stressed working across party lines for "common sense solutions."

The release said:

"Turner has been part of non-profit organizations and is devoted to community service. He served three terms as Chairman of the New Mexico Judicial Standards Commission and on the Albuquerque Development Commission. He is currently a board member of the New Mexico Coalition for Charter Schools Association. Turner is also a life member of the National Rifle Association, the American Council of Young Political Leaders and the Republican Party.

So far none of his primary opponents have reacted to Turner's entry.

However, the state Democratic Party executive director Josh Geise had a warm welcome for Turner, reaching across party lines to poke him in the eye.

"We wish Doug Turner luck as he begins his transformation from a political operative and special interest lobbyist to a candidate for public office.

However, while Turner may have an impressive track record helping politicians and special interests get ahead, New Mexicans deserve a Governor with an impressive record of helping families get ahead.

New Mexico families need a Governor who is prepared to make our state a leader in the 21st century economy and, needless to say, that’s not Doug Turner."