So check it out. Kinky Friedman is running for governor of Texas.

His campaign motto is "why the hell not?" For those who aren't familiar with him, Kinky Friedman is one of the greatest personalities of our time. Rarely seen without a smirk, a fat cigar, and full-on cowboy garb, Kinky is a somewhat paradoxical character. He writes hilarious mystery novels (with titles like Greenwich Killing Time and Kill Two Birds and Get Stoned) and is the frontman for a country group called "The Texas Jewboys." His platform is the "anti-wussification" of Texas (Kinky is of the opinion that the current governor, Rick Perry, is a prime example of how his home state has become wussified). Kinky has spent time in the Peace Corps. He's best friends with Willie Nelson, and likes to hang out with Presidents Bush and Clinton. He's against political correctness. He's the founder and organizer of Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch, a haven for mistreated cats, dogs, and, yes, chickens. He has his own brand of salsa, as well as some serious concerns about the death penalty.

If he were to win, he'd be the first Independent governor of Texas since Sam Houston.

Realistically, his chances may not be great, but he refers to his gubernatorial bid as more of a spiritual run than anything. What he is serious about is pointing out how disappointing the political climate has been year after year, in Texas and elsewhere. He's also annoyed about a political process that alienates voters. If the Kinkster had his way, ordinary people would be running things. He's kind of a populist in that way.

I never thought I'd say this, but I wish I lived in Texas right now so I could vote for him. It's about time someone brought back the stogie. Kinky for Governor!

Tags: books, politics