Poizner tabs Brulte for campaign, provides endorsement list

Indicating his seriousness in running, Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner has already assembled a campaign team and a long list of supporters for a potential gubernatorial bid in 2010.

In the announcement of the exploratory committee's formation, Poizner, a moderate Republican, announced that former Senate Republican Leader Jim Brulte (R-Rancho Cucamonga) will be his campaign chair. Brulte also served as finance chair for the California Republican Party.

He also noted endorsements from state Board of Equalization members and Republicans Michelle Steel and Bill Leonard, and 21 Republican state legislators.

Notably, the list does not include current Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill (R-Modesto) or Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines (R-Clovis). Also absent is another former state Senate Republican Leader, Sen. Dick Ackerman (R-Tustin) or any sitting GOP congressional member from California.

Poizner received a master's degree with honors in business administration from Stanford University, and earlier a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Texas.

He also founded several technology companies in Silicon Valley before getting involved in education. He was elected Insurance Commissioner in 2006.

EARLIER on PolitickerCA.com:

• Poizner opens exploratory committee for 2010 gubernatorial run