A longtime Republican lawmaker just announced a few minutes ago (8 am) that is he running for governor.

State Representative Dennis Richardson of Central Point is in Medford right now (around 8a), travels to Eugene around 10a and then will be in Bend at 12:30a at Pioneer Park.

His last stop on the statewide tour is in Portland at 4:30.

Deschutes County political leader and insider Troy Reinhart says Richardson is a candidate who will probably appeal to Central Oregon voters- 

He has 8 daughters and one son, is a vietnam war veteran and an attorney for 30 years.  The Republican primary race for Governor is in May of 2014, and the general is in November.

"Dennis Richardson is well-known in the Rep. party - in a Ronald Reagan mold- fiscally conservative- popular newsletter- well respected- well spoken - better than average chance of winning the nomination. "