Politics & Government

Murray Not Running For Governor; Who Should Run?

Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray will not run for governor in 2014, citing the demands of campaigning, serving in elected office and his desire to spend more time with his wife and two young daughters.

 

Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray will not run for governor in 2014, citing the demands of campaigning, serving in elected office and his desire to spend more time with his wife and two young daughters, reported his hometown newspaper the Telegram & Gazette of Worcester.

“It's something I have been thinking about for some time,” Murray said of the decision, which he said came after sitting down to talk it through with his wife, Tammy, and key supporters since the Christmas holidays.

Murray, who was mayor of the City of Worcester, told the Telegram & Gazette the demands of running a campaign and serving in office can require 15- and 16-hour days, six and seven days a week and would leave him little time to be with his family.

Framingham Democrats held a fundraiser for Murray in November in the hope that he would be a candidate for governor in 2014.

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In an email to political supporters this morning, Murray wrote:
"Having already run two successful statewide primary and general election campaigns, I am keenly aware of what will be required to run the type of campaign my supporters and the people of Massachusetts deserve. Accordingly, over the past several months I have increased my political and fundraising activities and have been heartened by the strong showing of support to date. ... However, as I contemplate the commitment required over the next 20 months (and the following four years as Governor) and weigh that against my obligations and responsibilities to my young family, I have decided that I will not be a candidate for Governor in the 2014 election cycle. Nor will I be a candidate for any other statewide office in 2014."

Murray continued to write: "This decision is not arrived at lightly and comes only after a great deal of reflection and numerous conversations with my wife, family and friends. I am thankful for the support and thoughtful words of encouragement I received from so many of you in the days and months leading up to my decision. I am proud of all we have been able to accomplish together."

With Murray not in the race, who do you think should run for Governor?

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Tell us in the comments below.


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