Kelley camp makes push to secure DFL endorsement for attorney general

State Senator Steve Kelley issued a news release touting endorsements from labor unions, DFL party leaders and state lawmakers. Kelley also made a tour through the capitol basement to talk with reporters. Here's the audio.

Here's some of the news release:

Just one week after the attorney general's race was thrown wide open, DFLers across the state are unifying solidly behind Steve Kelley. Democrats are uniting in their support for the state senator from Hopkins, who is known for his work ethic, conviction, and passionate belief in DFL principles.

At the Capitol today, Kelley announced he has received the endorsements of several unions, including AFSCME Council 5 and the Carpenters Union; DFL leaders including Mike Ciresi, David Lillehaug, and Congresswoman Betty McCollum; DFL legislators; and State Central Committee members from around the state (please see attached). The State Central Committee will endorse a candidate for attorney general at their meeting on August 12.

"It has been an honor representing the residents of District 44 and I am eager to do the same for the people of Minnesota," Kelley said. "People across the state have told me they are concerned about their privacy, health care, and safety. I will fight for them the same way I fought to make sure an Iraq War widow from St. Louis Park received her benefits; the same way I fought for kids by protecting them from a divisive and destructive education commissioner."

Former Congressman Bill Luther and Minnesota Solicitor General Lori Swanson are also running in the DFL primary. State Representative Jeff Johnson has the GOP endorsement. John James has the endorsement of the Independence Party.

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