Former Haas Business School dean Tom Campbell, who announced his plans to run for California governor last July, says he will focus on securing jobs and improving the state's higher education system if elected.

Campbell was the state's director of finance in 2004 and 2005, and has served five terms in the House of Representatives.

He said he plans to raise tuition fees for public colleges to that of private schools while expanding financial aid by increasing the amount of money students receive in Cal Grants.

"The money would finance these great teachers and students who can't afford tuition," Campbell said. "It would keep us competitive and superior."

Candidates have until March 2010 to file a formal declaration. Campbell will be running against current San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, as well as Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

Campbell said he supports the Budget Stabilization Act, which would limit state spending by increasing money deposited from the general fund into the "rainy day" fund, which is reserved for future economic downturns.

According to Bruce Cain, a colleague and UC Berkeley professor of political science, this position could make him a difficult candidate to identify with.

"The problem with being fiscally conservative is it doesn't necessarily provide the services that people want," Cain said. "We would have a lower budget, it would result in a lower budget for the UC's."

Under the act, tax revenues would increase to $16 billion from 2010 to 2011 to help balance the state budget.

Cain was also concerned with Campbell's ability to fundraise effectively compared to his more wealthy competitors.

"His opponents are multi-millionaires," Cain said. "They can spend lots of money to get their names out there ... he's got to raise his own money."

However, Campbell said his efforts would not suffer from a lack of funds.

"I don't think it's a roadblock," he said. "Of course I'd rather have tons of money, but if you can't raise your campaign from individuals then you don't have much a campaign anyway."

Haas senior lecturer in marketing David Robinson said Campbell could reach his audience despite his financially conservative position.

"It's very difficult, he's a liberal Republican," Robinson said. "But I definitely think that he can do it. He's a very engaging, warm human being and individuals will respond to him."

Campbell said his main drives for running are to address state economic concerns and continue his public service.

"My whole life I've spent as a public servant, government employee or a teacher," he said. "Public service is my highest calling."

Tags: TOM CAMPBELL, CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR