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Capitol View®
Tom Scheck

Carey stepping down as GOP Party Chair at end of term

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Ron Carey, the chair of the Minnesota Republican Party, said today that he's stepping down as party chair at the end of his term. It's no surprise since three people are already running for his position. Carey said he told the party's state executive board ten days ago that he would not run for a third term. He has also been telling party activists about his decision. Carey said he decided against making a public announcement because he didn't think most Minnesotans followed party issues closely.

Carey was first elected party chair in 2005 and served 18 years as a GOP activist. He said he decided to step aside and let someone else run the party.

"There are others who can take the torch and continue to fight the good fight of the Republican concepts of limited government, more freedom and lower taxation. I never felt that I was the only person capable of doing that job and I'm glad to see that there are other quality people coming forward."

Carey would not say who he's backing to replace him. Businessman Tony Sutton, radio host Dave Thompson and former state lawmaker Carrie Ruud are already running for the position. Party activists will elect a new chair in June.

Update: Here's my interview with Carey on his decision: