Dayton to Retire

U.S. Senator Mark Dayton of Minnesota announced today that he would not run for reelection, throwing open the race to succeed him.

Rep. Mark Kennedy had been considered the leading Republican candidate to challenge Dayton, while GOP Rep. Gil Gutknecht said last month he is considering a Senate run. Grams previously said he would consider a Senate run, while other Republican names include state Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer and state Rep. Phil Krinkie. Although there was speculation Dayton would face a primary challenge, no Democrat had taken active steps toward a run. Former Rep. William Luther and lawyer Mike Ciresi, who challenged Dayton for the nomination in 2000, are among those mentioned as possible candidates. Other possible Democrats include Rep. Betty McCollum, Hennepin County Attorney Amy Klobuchar, and state House Minority Leader Matt Entenza. State Attorney General Mike Hatch is viewed as a likely Democratic gubernatorial candidate next year. (from CongressDaily)