Brother & Sister Act

Brother, sister seek high office together

It sounds like a stunt, yet in all seriousness, a little-known Fort Worth educator and his Austin sister have surfaced as the first Democratic candidates for Texas governor and lieutenant governor in 2006.

Felix Alvarado, 62, and his 49-year-old sister, Maria Luisa Alvarado, named campaign treasurers last month, a traditional step toward a full-fledged candidacy.

The siblings, whose grandparents came to Texas from Mexico in 1910, think Democrats need to step up against Republicans, who have gripped all 29 elected positions statewide since 1999.

Well, best of luck to each in their respective endeavors. Brother Felix has previously done the heavy lifting of taking on some tough Congressional races in 2002 and 2004, so I salute him for that.

For now, there's the pesky matter of getting signatures for the ballot (5,000) or shelling out a sizable filing fee ($3,750). There's also the matter of them checking with their own county party chairman, Art Brender:

Art Brender, chairman of the Tarrant County Democratic Party, expressed doubt that the Alvarados will truly file for the two offices later this year because they lack deep financial and organizational resources.

"It's just not going to happen," Brender said of Felix running for governor. "I expect him to change his mind. I don't think it would be wise for the party or Felix for him to pursue that office."

Well, no ill will from this unwavering Chris Bell supporter. If you both make it in, welcome in. If not, I hope they show the same commitment and drive to any other race they choose.