AUSTIN (May 13, 2009)--Mark Thompson of Hamilton, who made an unsuccessful bid last year to be Texas Railroad Commissioner, says he will run for governor as a Democrat.

Thompson, a therapist for blind children, filed paperwork Wednesday with the Texas Ethics Commission, which marks the first step in a run for office.

Thompson garnered about 44 percent of the statewide vote in his 2008 run for railroad commissioner.

He lost to Michael L. Williams, who received about 4 million votes to Thompson's 3.4 million.

Former ambassador Tom Schieffer and author and humorist Kinky Friedman have said they are considering running for the Democratic nomination, as well.

On the Republican side, Gov Rick Perry has said he will run for re-election.

Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison will challenge him in the primary election.

Thompson has been a disabilities right advocate and therapist for blind children and adults for more than 15 years.

He service as a police officer in the Austin area for eight years.

He has a bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation from Stephen F. Austin State University.