'Let's not blow it,' Springer tells Dems

Jerry Springer's announcement today that he won't run for Ohio governor wasn't surprising to anyone who's been following the early Democratic field. But it was even more anticlimactic in the way it was delivered -- without a news conference, hoopla or other showbiz dazzle that seems to follow the former Cincinnati mayor turned talk show host.

Hamilton County Democratic Party Chairman Timothy M. Burke -- a Springer booster since his 1970 race for Congress -- was supposed to have delivered the statement Monday night, at a meeting of party leaders to elect Chris Redfern as party chairman.

But the meeting adjourned before Burke could make the announcement, so spokesman Dale Butland instead e-mailed it to Ohio political reporters today:

STATEMENT OF JERRY SPRINGER
TO THE OHIO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
DECEMBER 19, 2005

As you know, for the past two years, I have considered running for Governor. I had the privilege of traveling extensively throughout Ohio, raising money, giving money, supporting and recruiting candidates, and hopefully articulating a message which resonates among our citizens who so badly want a government that can lead us out of the mess we are in.

I've stepped back over the last six months to see if anyone could mount an effective candidacy, to see if our party could be unified for a victory next year that our state so desperately needs.

I wasn't going to run because I wanted a job or career. Thankfully, I don't need one. I would only run if I could be helpful.

With Michael Coleman's withdrawal, Ted (Strickland) is now the clear frontrunner, so what purpose does my running now serve?

We have a candidate and a wonderful opportunity for party unity. Let's not blow it.

Accordingly, I believe it would be irresponsible, divisive, and a betrayal of principle for me to jump into the race at this late stage. Therefore, I am announcing tonight that I will not be a candidate for governor or any other public office in 2006.

Burke said he wouldn’t rule out a future race for the 61-year-old downtown Cincinnati resident.

“With Jerry, I will never say never,” he said. “He’s an amazingly smart, amazingly articulate and amazingly resilient fellow.”

Previous coverage:

• Springer: Talking a new game (Jan. 15, 2005)
• Springer won't throw his chair into the ring (Aug. 7, 2003)
  
• Springer tests populist appeal (May 25, 2003)
• Springer race wasn't meant to be (August 15, 1999)
  
• Senator Springer? When chairs fly (July 25, 1999)