Brother and sister seek bids for governor, lieutenant governor

DentonRC.com | News for Denton, Texas | AP: Texas: "A 62-year-old Fort Worth man and his sister know they're long shots to become the first siblings elected governor and lieutenant governor.

Felix Alvarado and Maria Luisa Alvardo, 49, say their effort is more about taking a stand.

'It is almost impossible to take on an incumbent and win. I know that,' said Felix Alvarado, an assistant principal. 'I was trying to make a statement: Listen to the people; we count too.'

Both Democrats named campaign treasurers last month, a sign they're serious about the 2006 election.

However, that does not mean the political world is serious about them. Gilbert Cuthbertson, a Rice University political scientist, said the Alvarados could garner some votes just because they're a curiosity.

'Texas voters like something different,' Cuthbertson said. 'This will appeal to voters — not very many, however.'

The Alvarados still face hurdles to make it to the March 7 Democratic primary ballot. They each need 5,000 signatures or $3,750 on filing fees."