Bernero 'mulling' run for governor

[ccharles000]

Over the past week, Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero went from "very unlikely" to "seriously considering" a 2010 pursuit of the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.

"I'm still mulling it over," said the 45-year-old Bernero, who was re-elected less than a month ago. "A lot of folks in and outside the party (and) from around the state believe that we need real change and that's not represented by anybody running."

Bernero, who wants to make sure he's "got the fire in the belly," added that his ability to raise support and money will determine his decision, perhaps within the next six weeks.

While clearly stating that he loves his job as mayor, he also said that he's irked with partisan politics at the state Capitol and state budget woes that helped create Lansing's $3 million deficit for this current budget year.

Last week, Bernero moved to furlough about half of the city's employees - approximately 550 - for nine days between Dec. 28 and June 11, and he ordered 10 percent across-the-board reductions in departmental operating and capital expenses.

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20091201/NEWS01/912010324&referrer=FRONTPAGECAROUSEL