Democrat Wendy Davis Running for Texas Governor

CHRIS TOMLINSON, Associated Press
HALTOM CITY, Texas (AP) — Democrat Wendy Davis has declared her candidacy for governor of Texas.

In an email to supporters, the Texas state senator promised Thursday to represent the interests of middle-class residents, focusing on education, economic development and health care. She was expected to make a formal announcement later in the day at a rally in Haltom City.

The Fort Worth lawmaker came to national attention in June for her nearly 13-hour filibuster that helped temporarily block new statewide abortion restrictions. The law later passed.

Since her filibuster, Democratic activists have called on Davis to break a 20-year losing streak for Texas governor.

Attorney General Greg Abbott is the front-runner for the Republican nomination. He's raised $25 million.

Davis has a little over $1 million.

Republican Gov. Rick Perry has chosen not to seek re-election.

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