mn minnesota governor 2010 071609
On the homepage
Schools
Out There
Petters
Burning
Home | Politically Connected | State Politics
Suburban lawmaker Hann wants to be Minn. governor
Print this story
E-mail this story
Save to del.icio.us
Share on Facebook
Share on DiggMore from State Politics
Republican David Hann, a suburban state senator with a background in religion and business, on Thursday joined a fluid race for Minnesota governor.
Hann appeared headed toward the announcement for weeks. Earlier this month, he filed paperwork with state campaign regulators that allowed him to start raising money toward a bid.
Hann's official entrance in the race comes during a week in which two prominent Republicans made their intentions known: Former U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad ruled out a campaign and former state Auditor Pat Anderson declared herself a candidate.
So far, seven Republicans are seeking the party endorsement, which will be decided in June. The contest could spill into the September primary, though Hann said he won't continue his campaign if another candidate is endorsed.
Hann, 57, has defined himself as an unflinching conservative during his two terms in the Senate. He tried to abolish the state lottery, arguing government doesn't belong in the gambling business; he promoted a voucher program that would free up public dollars for private school tuition; and he loudly objected to legislation allowing the use of state money for stem-cell research.
Surrounded by supporters and family at a news conference, Hann spoke in broad terms about how he would improve the state's economy, the education system and health care delivery.
"Money and good intentions are not enough," He said.
He entered politics 15 years ago, winning a seat on the local school board. He claimed an open Senate seat in 2002.
Away from politics, Hann branched off as an independent consultant a couple of years ago after spending 25 years in the executive offices of a company that supplies sandwiches to convenience stores and vending machines.
The father of four served in Vietnam War as a chaplain's assistant and later earned a bachelor's degree in religion.
Hann's announced competitors for the GOP nomination are Anderson; state Reps. Tom Emmer of Delano, Paul Kohls of Victoria and Marty Seifert of Marshall; state Sen. Mike Jungbauer of East Bethel; and former state Rep. Bill Haas of Champlin.
With Democrats holding all other statewide offices and controlling the Legislature, Republicans are especially anxious to have one of their own succeed Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who declined to seek a third term.
Democrats also have a packed field of candidates trying to be the first from their party to win the office since 1986.
Announced Democratic candidates are former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton; state Sens. Tom Bakk of Cook and John Marty of Roseville; state Rep. Paul Thissen of Minneapolis, former state Rep. Matt Entenza of St. Paul, Ramsey County attorney Susan Gaertner, former state Sen. Steve Kelley and painter Ole Savior.
Recent State Politics stories
Bachmann wants investigation of ACORN work in Minnesota - July 16, 2009
Bachmann wants investigation of ACORN work in Minnesota - U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann is asking Gov. Tim Pawlenty to name a special investigator to probe ACORN activities in Minnesota. More
- Legislators take a field trip to the Metrodome
- Pawlenty's lawyer defends cuts to nutrition program
- Quam exits firm to help husband run for governor
- Library is pressed to take gang force report off Web
- Not all forgiven
- Effort builds to repeal nuclear power ban
- Lowry Bridge, Saints, Como Zoo fighting for your money
- Sowing survivalism seeds on talk radio
- Backed by House, 6 patients sue Pawlenty, state officials
Current state office holders
Governor: Tim Pawlenty
One of only a few prominent Republicans to win a competitive re-election contest in the Democratic sweep of 2006, Tim Pawlenty is widely seen as politically shrewd and naturally likable.
- Lt. Governor: Carol Molnau
- Secretary of State: Mark Ritchie
- Attorney General: Lori Swanson
- State Auditor: Rebecca Otto
Minnesota's political giants: Learn more about the men and women who have shaped Minnesota's political history.
  Open positions!A new career awaits. Look through thousands of listings to find your new job. Start now! No resume? No problem!Create a skills profile in minutes, let a recruiter match you to an open position. Click here to get started. |
Win tickets to see Brett Dennen at Pantages Theatre.Vita.mn presents Brett Dennen with Grace Potter and The Nocturnals at Pantages Theatre on Nov. 27. |
Comment on this story | Be the first to comment | Hide reader comments