Jon Scott issued a statement via Anchor Rising that says the following:
“Because I have been inundated with calls from the press and from the public since the RI Report.com story speculating about my 2008 intentions, I thought that I should issue a statement.
The rumors that I will challenge Senator Reed in the upcoming election cycle are only rumors at this point. While I have listened to supporters who would like to see me go in that direction, I have also entertained those who would like to see me run for a General Assembly seat or a City Council seat in my hometown of Providence, as well. I appreciate the input and the support and will, ultimately, make my decision based upon what I feel best benefits the citizens of the Ocean State who are in desperate need of a vibrant two Party system…
Senator Reed is certainly a fixture in Rhode Island politics and enjoys high favorable numbers but no name is more entrenched than that of my 2006 opponent. We must get the working men and women of the state reinvested in the electoral process but reconnection can never happen with career politicians and special interest money in control. The rank and file wage earners in this state have lost their belief in the system because they do not feel as if they have a place in the system any more. If we are to reclaim our government, all of our citizens must have the opportunity to become Teddy Roosevelt’s “man in the arena”.
I’ve proudly been a Jon Scott supporter since the day I met him, and I would like to see him serve RI in some capacity. Certainly the U.S. Senate could use someone with Scott’s energy, integrity, and drive; however, like I said in my earlier post, I worry there are too many obstacles blocking a Senate victory.
Campaigning unfortunately can only get a candidate so far. Finances will be an issue if Scott runs for Senate. The National Republican Senatorial Committee and RNC will provide Scott with little support against an opponent with $2.4 million in his chest. I also speculate it will be hard to raise money from Rhode Island donors. Reed’s high approval rating is an indicator of the limited amount of donors willing and able to support Scott’s campaign.
Personally, I feel Scott could make the biggest impact in the General Assembly which would be a good springboard for higher office. Senator Rhoda Perry’s term is long overdue to be finished as well as Representative Gordon Fox’s. Scott’s voice would be heard in the General Assembly, and I believe he would be able to establish a lot of credibility and respect in this office.
When its all said and done, I have no doubt Scott’s decision will be well-founded, and I look forward to following his campaign.
