Perry has almost $8 million for 2006

[Freddie Stubbs]

By Jay Root

Star-Telegram Austin Bureau


AUSTIN - Republican Gov. Rick Perry has amassed a $7.9 million campaign war chest, but likely challenger Carole Keeton Strayhorn, the state comptroller, is nipping at his heels with $5.7 million of her own, the campaigns reported Thursday.

While some party leaders warn an internecine battle for governor could split Republicans and open the door to a Democratic challenger, Strayhorn said voters of all stripes are urging her to get in the race.

"People in Texas are telling me to run for governor, and I am listening," Strayhorn said. The consistent Perry critic said she turned in her best fund-raising performance ever with $2.25 million received between July and December.

She said she is not ready to announce anything firm yet but vowed to run for a job in 2006 in which she can "make the most difference in this state."

more: http://www.dfw.com/mld/startelegram/news/legislature/10644548.htm

[johncoby2]

1. $8Million for 2006 and zero intelligence

[crispini]

2. But good hair! ;)