Former H/P exec Shields drops run for governor
CORVALLIS, Ore. (AP) - Corvallis businessman Steve Shields says he's withdrawing from the Democratic primary race for Oregon governor. In an open letter posted Thursday on his campaign Web site, the former Hewlett-Packard executive said he made the decision because his bid "has not garnered enough financial support to continue to be viable." Shields filed his candidacy paperwork in mid-October. He was seeking the 2010 Democratic gubernatorial nomination against two well-known contenders - former Gov. John Kitzhaber and former Secretary of State Bill Bradbury. Two contenders already in the Republican gubernatorial race are businessman Allen Alley and former legislator John Lim. State Sen. Jason Atkinson suspended his campaign in October, citing family health concerns. Former Portland Trail Blazers center Chris Dudley is also considering a run. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)