2007: Former Governor Brereton Jones is out

Ryan Alessi reports that former Governor Brereton Jones will not be a candidate for Governor in 2007.

Gov. Brereton Jones will not seek the Democratic nomination for governor.

"This is not the appropriate decision at this stage in our lives," Jones said in a statement. He went on to say that he and his wife, Libby, appreciate the support from people encouraging Jones to get in the race.

Full Statement on his decision:

"I greatly appreciate the strong encouragement that we have gotten from all around the state to run for governor. However, after much prayerful consideration both Libby and I have determined that this is not the appropriate decision for us at this stage in our lives. We extend our sincere thanks to all those who have been so supportive and encouraging."

I fully expect that there will be some sort of announcement from someone soon...that's my personal hope.

Former Lt. Governor Steve Beshear, who resigned at the Kentucky Democratic Party's general counsel following the election of Jerry Lundergan as chairman, is seriously considering a run according to Pol Watchers.

It is interesting to see how the race will develop.

ETA: Here is some more from the Herald-Leader.

Former Lt. Gov. Steve Beshear told the Herald-Leader this week that he has been actively talking with potential running mates, including state Sen. Daniel Mongiardo of Hazard.

Mongiardo has considered his own run for governor.

Jack Conway, a Louisville attorney who ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2002, also is mulling becoming a candidate for the top post. Conway had been in discussions in recent days with Jones about potentially teaming up.

Attorney General Greg Stumbo asked the Executive Branch Ethics Commission this week to reconsider its June advisory opinion that called it a conflict of interest for Stumbo to run for governor in 2007 after his office led the investigation into hiring practices within Republican Gov. Ernie Fletcher’s administration.

Stumbo continues to insist that “I have no plans on running for governor at this time.”

State Treasurer Jonathan Miller also has talked about running for governor.

Another former lieutenant governor, Steve Henry, who served under Gov. Paul Patton from 1995 to 2003, is still searching for a running mate.

The filing deadline for candidates is 4 p.m. Jan. 30.