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Barrett to Run for Governor

Updated: March 4, 10:35 a.m.Rep. Gresham Barrett (R-S.C.) announced Wednesday that he is running for governor in 2010, formalizing a move that had been widely anticipated.Barrett launched his campaign via an e-mail to state Republicans and an Internet video.“I am excited about this campaign, and honored to have the opportunity to share my vision for a more prosperous South Carolina with the hard-working people of our great state,— he wrote in the e-mail. Barrett also announced that he has named Travis Butler, president of Butler Properties & Development, as his campaign treasurer. The four-term Congressman had $725,000 in his re-election account at the end of 2008, all of which can be transferred to his gubernatorial bid. Gov. Mark Sanford (R) is term-limited and cannot seek re-election next year. Barrett is unlikely to be the only Republican vying for a gubernatorial nod. State Attorney General Henry McMaster and Lt. Gov. André Bauer, both Republicans, are also eyeing the race.Barrett is the fourth House Member to announce a possible run for governor next year. GOP Reps. Mary Fallin (Okla.) and Zach Wamp (Tenn.) are also running to succeed their term-limited governors, as is Democratic Rep. Artur Davis (Ala.). Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-Mich.) has announced he’s not running for re-election and is exploring a gubernatorial bid. Barrett’s 3rd district seat is staunchly Republican and Democrats are not expected to contest the open seat next year.

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