Kinky Tosses Felt Hat in TX Ag Commissioner Race

by Ryan Loyd

Wednesday, former Texas gubernatorial candidate, humorist, writer, and politican Kinky Friedman said he's throwing his hat in the race for Texas Agriculture Commissioner.

Friedman wrote a check of nearly $4,000 and signed his name at the Texas Democratic Headquarters Wednesday, officially placing him in the race. "It really is about changing the leadership we have and about making government work for the people for once," said Friedman.

The candidate, who often mixes humor with politics, said he decided to drop out of the 2010 race for governor after meeting with Democratic candidates Bill white and Farouk Shami. He said one of the main reasons he decided to quit his bid for Texas' top job was money, saying he couldn't compete financially with the multi-million dollar campaigns of the front runners. He also said he didn't want to split the ticket.

"I've thought about it," said Friedman. "I think the agriculture commissioner handles the people, the animals, the land. And I've grown up in the Hill Country all my life, 59 years. In the peace corps I was an agriculture extension director."

But some have questioned whether Friedman is qualified to run for Agriculture Commissioner. The list under the Texas Agriculture Code says a candidate must have directly worked in the business of agriculture, among other items.

"We've already run this by the legal team," said Friedman. "I couldn't tell you exactly what agriculture agency I've been involved with," he continued.

But late Wednesday, a San Antonio attorney verified information for the Friedman camp. In a letter sent by Abel Dominguez, "It is my opinion after review that he qualifies.

"One of the seldom seen aspects of the ranch is that Kinky raises cattle on part thereof.

There may not be a lot of cattle but he does raise and sell them. This satisfies (b) (3) of section 11.005. Additionally, he grows feed for the cattle on the ranch, which also satisfies

section (b)(1) of the same code."

Regardless of the legal list of qualifications, Friedman appeared confident of his abilities to run the state's agriculture community. But, he's sure of at least two other qualifications far less legal why Texans should vote for him on March 2.

"As far as practicality and spirituality, I'm infinitely qualified," he said.

Friedman will face Democrat Hank Gilbert in the primary. Incumbent Todd Staples, a Republican, is also vying for the job.