Seifert picks Myhra as running mate
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Marty Seifert has selected state Rep. Pam Myhra, R-Burnsville, to be his running mate.
Seifert told MPR News that he picked Myhra because she has private sector experience as a certified public accountant and public sector experience as a member of the Minnesota House. Myhra focused her legislative career on education and tax policy. She also defeated a DFL incumbent in 2010, an experience that resonates with Seifert.
"Just like me, she's from a swing area that could vote either way,” Seifert said. “If the Republicans want to win in Minnesota, you have to have the votes of non-Republicans to win elections, and Pam has proven that."
Seifert also said Myhra lived the American dream after moving to Minnesota from South America as a youngster. He said she didn't know how to speak English when she first came to the state.
“She brings a very unique life story and life experience to the position,” Seifert said. “She's very well prepared. She served on the tax committee and on education and I just see her as a very well rounded individual in terms of being able to put a lot of experience together for the state of Minnesota."
Seifert is the second Republican candidate to announce a running mate. Sen. Dave Thompson said last month that fellow state Sen. Michelle Benson was joining his ticket. There are roughly a half dozen Republicans vying to challenge DFLer Mark Dayton in November.
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