2008 Woodie Awards
'Kinky for Governor: Why the hell not?'
Country musician runs on independent ticket
Crystal Williams
Issue date: 9/28/06 Section: Features
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Friedman is one of two independent candidates for the position along with Carole Keeton Strayhorn.
If elected Nov. 7, this musician/novelist turned politician will be the state's first independent governor since Sam Houston in 1859.
Friedman also would have the distinction of being the Lone Star State's first Jewish governor.
Though well known for his antics, Friedman has detailed plans to improve education, health care and immigration and to explore Texas's untapped renewable energy resources.
For Texas native Vince Cardona, the personality and plans may not be enough to support Freidman's non-existent political experience.
"His political background is fishy. Does he have the know-how to fulfill an important office like governor?" Cardona said.
City Commissioner Jim Simms disagrees.
"In my political knowledge, I've never seen a race for governor this interesting," Simms said. "I predict before it's over, it will become wild. I'm not a 'Kinky' man, but I believe he brings a legitimate candidacy to the race."
Friedman would not be the first entertainer turned politician. Others include Ronald Reagan and Jesse Ventura.
Friedman also is friends with former President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush.
His celebrity supporters include Willie Nelson, Don Imus of MSNBC, Mojo Nixon and Joe Scarborough. Friedman has been quoted as "running against apathy."
Commissioner Paul Harpole agrees that this dark horse may attract new voters.
"I think he'll stir the pot, and that's good for our democratic process," Harpole said. "Hopefully he will bring more attention to politics and bring more voters."
That's music to the ears of a state that saw less than 30 percent of the eligible population vote in the last election.
Friedman is bringing more than humor and voters to the table, however. Texas has the highest school dropout rate in America. Friedman plans to improve education by raising teachers' salaries, now $6,000 below the national average.
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