Ex-HP CEO Fiorina to run for U.S. Senate

GARDEN GROVE, Calif., Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Former Hewlett-Packard Chief Executive Officer Carly Fiorina announced Wednesday she is running for the U.S. Senate in California.

Fiorina joined Rep. Chuck Devore in the Republican battle to challenge Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., in the November 2010 election, the Los Angeles Times reported.

"If it isn't obvious to you by now, let me make it official today: I am a candidate to serve you as your U.S. senator," Fiorina said, speaking to supporters in Garden Grove, Calif., in Orange County, the heart of Devore's district.

Devore is a known conservative in California but has little name recognition beyond the state's borders, the Times said.

Fiorina, whose hair was close to her scalp after a nine-month battle with breast cancer, said she thought the congressional race could get dirty -- if she survives the primary.

"I have to say, after chemotherapy, Barbara Boxer just isn't that scary," she said. "She has always taken the low road to higher office, so get ready. But it's OK, I can take a punch and I can throw a punch."

Fiorina, 54, a moderate, has no political experience but huge personal wealth from her $21 million severance package from HP after her six rocky years at the helm. She also was an adviser to Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., during his 2008 presidential run.

"The last thing Californians need in a U.S. senator is a failed CEO who was fired by her last employer after taking $100 million for herself," said John Burton, chairman of the California Democratic Party.