The Dallas Morning News Editorial: KBH for Governor

Editorial: We recommend Hutchison in GOP primary

04:07 PM CST on Friday, February 12, 2010

Our state is in need of a statesman.
After nearly a decade in power, Gov. Rick Perry has emerged as a leader who depends more on bully tactics than his bully pulpit. Now, as Texas faces daunting deficits and a number of urgent challenges, Perry's strong-arm style will no longer suffice.

Elections 2010

Early voting: Feb. 16-26

Primary election Day: March 2

Our recommendations: For selected Republican and Democratic primaries

DMN Voter Guide: Hear from the candidates in their own words

For more information: Call the Dallas County elections office at 214-637-7937; visit dalcoelections.org; call the Texas secretary of state's office at 1-800-252-8683; or visit sos.state.tx.us/elections.

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Kay Bailey Hutchison's measured approach to governing would be a welcome change. The state's senior senator is better equipped to build the coalitions that will be needed to balance budgets, curb dropouts, tackle transportation issues and keep Texas on track. That's why Hutchison has earned our recommendation.
What was expected to be a Perry vs. Hutchison duel in the March 2 GOP primary has been made more interesting by the candidacy of Debra Medina, an activist who has tried to tap into voters' frustration with government. But while Medina, 47, has railed against the status quo and Perry, 59, has campaigned against Washington, Hutchison has remained focused on mapping out the way forward. Hutchison's emphasis on education distinguishes her from her opponents, and her plans aimed at stanching the dropout crisis are needed to ensure that this state has an educated workforce.
No doubt Hutchison, 66, will build upon her efforts in the Senate, where she has championed the importance of math and science education and has helped Texas tap into federal research funds.
While Perry has excoriated Hutchison for daring to step foot in D.C., she has been an advocate for Texas, working on local problems ranging from the poor living conditions in colonias to the complexities of phasing out the Wright amendment's flight restrictions. Most important, Hutchison has demonstrated the ability to lead by building consensus.
Perry has exhibited strong leadership and relishes rough-and-tumble politics. But increasingly, he tussles with the Legislature and leaders of his own party – even meddling when it suits him. Perry has overstepped by playing politics with university regents and by letting his former chief of staff push out the president of Texas A&M. Perhaps the governor's most brazen move was the Saturday night massacre of the Forensic Science Commission as it prepared to discuss disputed evidence that led to the execution of Cameron Todd Willingham.
Medina has built a loyal following, but her plans to eliminate property taxes and opt out of Medicaid are unwise and unworkable. Her comments last week lending credence to 9/11 conspiracy theories – followed by furious backpedaling – are deeply disturbing.
As this intra-party clash has played out, Hutchison has found herself playing defense as Perry's gone on the attack. As a result, she's spent too much time distancing herself from Washington instead of aggressively promoting her plans for Texas.
Despite this tactical misstep, Hutchison's record is proof that she is the Republican candidate who is best suited to lead this state. With a firm grasp of the challenges ahead and a considered approach to governing, Hutchison could be the stateswoman that Texas needs.