Gov. Ann Richards, standing on the front porch of the clapboard home where she was born 60 years ago, formally declared her intention to seek re-election Monday.

Richards avoided any direct mention of her expected Republican opponent, Texas Rangers managing partner George W. Bush, the eldest son of the former president.Richards said she had kept her top 1990 campaign promise to build a "New Texas" by appointing people to boards and commissions who reflect the "rich diversity" of Texas. Richards was joined at her childhood home by her parents and her four grown children.

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Bush, who is expected to face nominal opposition, was unavailable for comment but issued a statement in which he said he looked forward to a positive campaign and a frank discussion of issues.

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