A political action committee representing Minnesota physicians endorsed Gov. Mark Dayton for re-election on Thursday.

MEDPAC is the political arm of the Minnesota Medical Association. The PAC's board of directors, made up of physicians, decided on the endorsement.

In a news release, the group praised the incumbent Democrat for supporting the group's agenda "on almost every issue." Specifically cited was the budget Dayton signed last year, which restored medical education funding and increased physician payment rates; and Dayton's support for a tobacco tax increase, more money for newborn screening, prohibiting minor access to tanning beds and restrictions on e-cigarettes.

"Dayton has showed time and time again that he supports the MMA's advocacy efforts on behalf of the doctors and patients of the state of Minnesota and for that he deserves our support," said MEDPAC chairman Michael Tedford, an Edina physician.

MEDPAC endorses candidates for office and contributes to the campaigns of endorsed candidates. It's supported by voluntary contributions from its members, and does not receive money from the larger Minnesota Medical Association or its member dues.