GOP gubernatorial candidate Kurt Zellers has selected former state Rep. Dean Simpson as his running mate.

Zellers made the announcement Thursday morning in a message to supporters.

"Our campaign is about creating jobs and opportunities for all families across Minnesota, and Dean has dedicated his personal and professional life to that end," Zellers said in the statement. "Our state will be a better place to live and build a business with Dean as its next lieutenant governor."

Zellers praised Simpson for creating jobs and being a leading advocate for economic development in the New York Mills area.

Simpson, who is also Zellers' campaign chairman, is a former New York Mills mayor and owner of grocery stores.

He was first elected to the state House in 2002, where he served on the taxes committee.

Simpson

"I'm grateful for the service he has already shown and I'm looking forward to running with him," Zellers said.

Zellers is one of five GOP gubernatorial candidates vying for the chance to take on DFL Gov. Mark Dayton, who is seeking a second term.

Zellers is also one of the last to select a running mate. Orono businessman Scott Honour is the only GOP candidate who has yet to announce a running mate.