Oregon Public Broadcasting

Former Oregon Secretary of State Bill Bradbury filed papers Thursday for what has long been expected:  That he's entering the race to become Oregon's next governor. 

The contest for the Democratic nomination is shaping up to be a battle between two old friends:  Bradbury and former Governor John Kitzhaber.  Salem Correspondent Chris Lehman reports.

Bill Bradbury didn't need directions to the Secretary of State's office to file his candidacy papers.  He spent nine years as head of the office until his term ended earlier this year. 

Bradbury has been raising money for a possible run for governor for months but he didn't make it official until now. 

The news comes two weeks after another Democrat, former Governor John Kitzhaber, entered the race. 

While Kitzhaber enjoys widespread name recognition, Bradbury contends his long-time friend isn't a shoo-in for the Democratic nomination.

Bill Bradbury:  "Anybody who wants to be governor has to earn the support of Oregonians.  It's not something you can take for granted.  You have to earn their support and I intend to do that everyday."

Three Republicans are also running.  Oregon hasn't elected a Republican for governor since 1982.