Rukavina pulls out, throws support to Kelliher in decisive move

Iron Ranger says he had a "wonderful ride." His decision transforms the endorsement battle.

By mikekaszuba

April 25, 2010 at 1:29AM

Rep. Tom Rukavina withdrew from the race for DFL endorsement for governor shortly after 8 p.m. and threw his support to House Speaker Maragaret Anderson Kelliher in a move that could give her a decisive edge.

Rukavina struck a populist theme in his withdrawal speech, and said Kelliher would follow in his footsteps.

"There's more than enough wealth to go around," he said. "Wasn't Jesus a socialist? He kicked the bankers out fo the temple."

"We have to take care of education, and we have to take care of health care...and those vulnerable people who didn't have the same cards dealt to them."

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