Gubernatorial Candidacy
On March 2, 2009, in Austin, Tom Schieffer announced that he was forming an exploratory committee to consider seeking the Democratic nomination for governor of Texas in 2010. In June, Schieffer formally announced his candidacy.
In a campaign stop in heavily Democratic Laredo on June 26, Schieffer announced his opposition to both a border wall and the patrolling of the area by National Guard troops. As governor, Schieffer said he would work to improve the economy of Mexico, which he maintains would reduce the number of immigrants entering the United States illegally. "We need to stop demonizing Mexico and Mexicans for all the problems in America," Schieffer told a group of Laredo supporters.
Regarding education, Schieffer said that such programs as art, music, and science are essential in public schools to keep students engaged and to reduce the dropout rate, particularly high in the border country. He also endorsed emphasis on English at an early age to improve the educational prospects of pupils.
Schieffer has been questioned at Democratic events for his past support for Bush, including for the fact that he "voted for George Bush every time he ran for office."
On November 23, 2009 Schieffer announced that he was dropping out of the 2010 Texas Governor's Race, endorsing Houston mayor Bill White for the race despite White being a candidate for U.S. Senate. White announced December 4, 2009, that he will run for Governor.
Read more about this topic: Tom Schieffer