Gates Says He’s Considering Run for Lieutenant Governor
Orange County Sheriff Brad Gates said Friday that he has been strongly encouraged to run for lieutenant governor and will weigh the possibility.
“I don’t know for sure,” Gates said in response to a question. “I was recently approached by some very concerned people. I’m seriously trying to sit down to consider it.”
Gates made the statement after he addressed about 100 members of the South Orange County Chamber of Commerce.
Gates, 54, has been in charge of the Sheriff’s Department for nearly two decades.
Political experts have said that several voter surveys already have shown Gates as a potential front runner, ahead of candidates who said have announced their intentions to run.
Other Republicans who intend to seek the nomination include state Sen. Cathie Wright of Simi Valley, and Assemblyman Stan Statham of Oak Run. Controller Gray Davis, a Democrat, has said he will seek the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor.
Gates must decide by Feb. 9 if he will run or seek reelection as sheriff.
Several days ago, Sonny Bono, former Palm Springs mayor, dropped his plan to seek the GOP’s nomination for lieutenant governor. Bono reportedly has shifted his interest to running for Congress.
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