Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak is getting some help from Howard Dean in his campaign for governor.

Dean, the former Vermont governor and chairman of the Democratic National Committee, will host a campaign fundraiser for Rybak from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the south Minneapolis home David Wilson and Michael Peterman. Suggested donations are $100 to $2,000.

Dean has been an early and strong supporter of Rybak, who headed President Obama's Minnesota campaign effort.

Rybak and a plethora of other DFL candidates are heading toward the make-or-break state convention later this month in Duluth.

Rybak said he will end his campaign if he doesn't win the endorsement.