By Jeremy Duda
Arizona Capitol Times
The 2012 election isn’t even done yet, but a lot of buzz is being generated around the next governor’s race.
Several candidates have emerged as potential contenders for governor in 2014. On the Republican side, Secretary of State Ken Bennett, Treasurer Doug Ducey, Attorney General Tom Horne and Mesa Mayor Scott Smith are widely believed to be eying the Ninth Floor. More recently, Senate President Steve Pierce was mentioned as a potential candidate as well.
The race for the Democratic nomination is expected to come down to House Minority Leader Chad Campbell and former Regent Fred DuVal.
Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton is considered a possible contender as well, though many expect Stanton, who took office this year, to take a pass, at least for now.
Several of the candidates acknowledge they’re considering a run.
Smith, whose role in revitalizing Mesa’s economy has been widely praised, said many people have asked him to run and he’s considering it. Campbell, too, said he’s considering a run. Bennett formed an exploratory committee for a gubernatorial campaign in 2011. And Horne said he’s thinking about it as well, though he acknowledged that a gubernatorial run is partly contingent on him being cleared of allegations of wrongdoing.
More for subscribers
