Forty-nine year old East Texas Rancher and former teacher Hank Gilbert has kicked off his Democratic race for Governor. KERA’s Shelley Kofler says the little-known candidate is hoping his statewide tour will get him noticed.

Hank Gilbert says he will place a high priority on early childhood education as a way to keep kids from dropping out later on. He wants full-day pre-kindergarten programs and increased awareness of vocational education.

Gilbert: We are going to develop a very comprehensive vocation and technical track for high school students who don’t want to go to college.

Gilbert was a top Democratic vote-getter in 2006 when he ran unsuccessfully for state agriculture commissioner. His campaign then focused on his opposition to Governor Perry’s Trans-Texas Corridor.

On his campaign website this time Gilbert promises to reorganize the state insurance commission. He calls Perry’s appointed commissioner, Mike Geeslin, a “pro-insurance lapdog.”

Gilbert: They all have direct ties back to the same companies they are supposed to be overseeing. I think that was purposeful. Because of that we have the highest health insurance and the highest homeowners’ insurance (rates) in the country with the least amount of coverage.

Gilbert says he understands the difficulties faced by Texans without insurance. He and his family pay their health care bills out of pocket because pre-existing family conditions make their insurance too expensive.

I believe our Texas state executive positions should serve no more than two consecutive terms. I vow, if you give me the opportunity to serve as your Governor, not to serve more than 2 terms. I will also work with the Texas Legislature to ensure that the statewide executive positions are limited to two terms.