‘Charismatic’ senator runs for governor | Albuquerque Journal News By Dan Boyd / Journal Staff Writer

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Copyright © 2014 Albuquerque Journal

Howie Morales’ journey from teacher and high school baseball coach to Democratic candidate for governor hasn’t left much time for rest stops.

Morales, 41, is the youngest of the five candidates vying for the Democratic Party’s 2014 nomination, but he says his background as a state senator and former county clerk – in addition to a doctoral degree in education and top hospital job – has prepared him for the responsibilities of statewide office. …

In March, Morales stirred the attention of state politicos by receiving the largest share of delegate votes – about 29 percent – at the Democratic pre-primary nominating convention. He also has received endorsements from two of the state’s largest unions, which have 35,000 combined members in New Mexico and plenty of political heft.

But the Morales campaign also faces stark challenges, chiefly a limited campaign war chest – he reported having $44,700 in his campaign account earlier this week – and a shortage of statewide name recognition.

“A combination of low name recognition and a small bank account creates a challenge,” longtime New Mexico political analyst Brian Sanderoff said

‘Charismatic’ senator runs for governor | Albuquerque Journal News