After a long winter of not having a candidate for governor, Democrats now have not only someone for the top job -- Gaye Symington -- but a full dance card for the fall election.
All the incumbent Democrats will run again. That's Secretary of State Deb Markowitz, Treasurer Jeb Spaulding, Attorney General Bill Sorrell and Auditor Tom Salmon.
Deb Richter, a doctor who lives in Montpelier, has confirmed her interest in being a Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor. Democrats say they have other people interested in running for that job, too. I'm sure there are some behind the scenes talks going on -- not that anyone should be discouraged from running, but primaries can be messy.
Republicans, of course, have both incumbents running again. That's Gov. Jim Douglas and Lt. Gov. Brian Dubie. The question is how many more Republicans the party will field for statewide offices. Republican Party Chairman Rob Roper said he has heard from people interested in running for a couple of the other spots. He doesn't expect to have a full dance card. Look for Republicans to try to rebuild their numbers in the Legislature.
Progressives have their candidate for governor, Anthony Pollina. Morgan Daybell, Progressive Party executive director, predicted there would be someone for lieutenant governor. He's had inquiries. He didn't expect to see party candidates in the other statewide races -- but there's still time.
Candidates from major parties have until July 21 to decide. (Of course they would have to work fast on that day if they waited until the last minute, since they would need signatures on petitions.)
-- Nancy Remsen
