FORT WORTH — Standing in front of the elementary school where he began his public education, Fort Worth native and former U.S. Ambassador Tom Schieffer officially announced Wednesday that he will be running for Texas Governor — as a Democrat.

Schieffer told a crowd of more than 100 supporters, including students from the Luella Merrett elementary school, that he wants to change the way Texas government runs and make Texas a better place.

"I am a Democrat – as Sam Rayburn used to say without prefix, suffix or apology – and I think it is time we all had a governor," Schieffer said. "I have no illusions about the difficulties of the task that lies ahead. There are two tough, veteran Republican officeholders who will be well funded and will do anything to be elected.

"But I still believe in democracy and I still believe in the Democratic Party."

He said he wants to be a middle-ground governor, who represents all Texans.

To read the complete article, visit www.star-telegram.com.