Emmer, Kelliher make campaigns for governor official

Republican Tom Emmer and DFLer Margaret Anderson Kelliher filed paperwork with the Minnesota Secretary of State's office Tuesday, making their bids for governor official.

Emmer appeared at the secretary of state's office with his running mate Annette Meeks and GOP legislative candidates from around the state.

During a news conference, Emmer said he's running as part of a unified team of Republicans made up of regular Minnesotans.

"This is more than just some grabbing their hand and saying, 'Have you ever thought of running for office?'" Emmer said. "These people are actually coming forward saying, 'I don't like the direction that this country is moving. I don't like the direction that this state is moving.' They're coming forward and they're saying I'm not going to complain about it. I'm going to be part of the solution."

Kelliher filed with her running mate John Gunyou. She said she was excited about filing for office, as well as continuing the work of a statewide campaign. Kelliher said her campaign for governor is about Minnesota values.

"Values of making sure that our K-12 education system is strong, that our early childhood is even stronger, that in public higher education we're living up to our great promise in this state," Kelliher said. "Making sure that we are doing well by all Minnesotans in the area of health care, and creating more jobs in this state."

Kelliher is facing a primary election challenge on Aug. 10. One of her DFL opponents, Mark Dayton, filed his election paperwork Monday after announcing his running mate, state Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon. Former state Rep. Matt Entenza is expected to do the same later this week.

Emmer said he doesn't plan to participate in any candidate debates until the DFL nomination is determined in the primary.

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