Former DFL gubernatorial candidate Tom Bakk is throwing his support to Rep. Paul Thissen.

Bakk said he's got to know Thissen and all the other candidates during his year campaigning for the office and found Thissen understands health care costs containment "better than the other candidates."

"I've gained a great deal of respect for Rep. Thissen," Bakk, of Cook, said on the convention floor just before the endorsement process was to start Saturday.

He said his nod shouldn't be perceived as a dis to Rep. Tom Rukavina, a fellow Iron Ranger.

"It has nothing to do with Tommy," he said.

Bakk said he will give a nominating speech for Thissen and his support may change some delegates' minds.

Voting on the DFL's pick is slated to start sometime after noon from the Duluth convention hall.