Lynn Swann Forms Gubernatorial Committee

[NHPolitico]

The race will at least be interesting.

Former Steeler Lynn Swann Forms Gubernatorial Committee

Feb 24, 2005 9:31 am US/Eastern
Harrisburg (AP) Former Pittsburgh Steelers star Lynn Swann has filed papers forming a campaign committee for governor, his first official step toward a possible campaign for the 2006 election.

Swann's filing allows him to begin raising money for a campaign. He filed the papers Wednesday, on the eve of his first public speech as a potential candidate - at a Westmoreland County Republican dinner.

He promised to begin "a conversation with the people of Pennsylvania."

"I will spend time introducing myself to communities across the commonwealth," he said in a statement. "As I consider my personal decision regarding the upcoming gubernatorial race, we will also explore the potential political and financial support for my candidacy."

Swann named his committee Team 88, the number the wore during a career as a wide receiver that won him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Swann faces at least two prospective opponents for the GOP nomination next year - state Sen. Jeffrey Piccola of Harrisburg and former Lt. Gov. William Scranton III. The nominee is expected to take on Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell in his bid for a second term.

A Quinnipiac University poll conducted earlier this month showed Rendell the clear favorite in hypothetical matchups with each of the three Republican prospects. Rendell led Scranton 50 to 35 percent; Swann, 50 to 34 percent; and Piccola, 52 to 28 percent. More than 11 percent were undecided.

[NHPolitico]

Swann has a real job.  President of Swann, Inc. (a marketing and consulting firm). He is the Director of the Board at H.J. Heinz Company and at Wyndham International, Inc.

He's also got a degree in Public Relations from the USC School of Journalism.

He's a charming speaker, too...

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