By Patrick Crowley
The Cincinnati Enquirer

NEWPORT - Kentucky House Speaker Jody Richards will formally announce his campaign for governor and introduce his running mate today during a press conference at the Newport on the Levee entertainment venue.

Mr. Richards, a Bowling Green Democrat, will seek the party's nomination in a primary that Attorney General Ben Chandler and his lieutenant governor running mate, Louisville businessman Charlie Owen, have already entered.

Lt. Gov. Steve Henry is expected to enter the primary race within two weeks.

Mr. Richards chose Newport on the Levee for his Northern Kentucky announcement because as the leader of the House of Representatives, he supported tax incentives for the $210 million project, said Josh Wice, a member of the Richards campaign team.

"Newport on the Levee represents the kind of work Speaker Richards has done in the legislature," Mr. Wice said Wednesday. "He worked closely with (House Majority Caucus Chairman) Jim Callahan on this project that benefits Northern Kentucky and that people here wanted to see happen. And the project is a symbol of the kind of growth that is taking place up here, which the speaker wants to continue to work towards as governor."

Mr. Callahan, a Wilder Democrat, has endorsed Mr. Richards in the primary. The two have worked closely together as members of House Democratic leadership.

Mr. Richards, 64, has served in the legislature since 1977. He is owner of Superior Books in Bowling Green.

"For decades now I have served the people of my district with dedication, honesty and integrity and they have rewarded me by reelecting me to office," Mr. Richards said.. "I have also served the greater commonwealth in a larger capacity as the house speaker, working hard to help all Kentucky families. Now, I want to serve all of the people of Kentucky to the best of my abilities as their governor."

Mr. Richards will also make campaign announcements today in Bowling Green, Louisville and Frankfort.

E-mail Patrick Crowley at pcrowley@enquirer.com