Gerlach not running for reelection
Sen. Chris Gerlach, R-Apple Valley, announced today that he won't be running for reelection. In a prepared statement, Gerlach cited family considerations as the reason for stepping down.
"While serving in the Legislature is truly an honor and privilege, the family and financial sacrifices are great," he said. "Now is the time to reassess my personal priorities."
Gerlach was criticized late last week for how he handled mailings regarding the so-called "Right-to-Work" amendment. His firm was hired to print mailings that targeted Republican senators onr the issue.
Gerlach's district leans Republican but will be another open seat that Republicans will be forced to defend.
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Republicans not running for re-election to the Minnesota Senate:
Chris Gerlach
Gretchen Hoffman (running for Congress)
Doug Magnus
Al DeKruif
Amy Koch
Gen Olson
Geoff Michel
Note: Republican Mike Parry is running for Congress but has not ruled out a run for re-election if he fails to win his party's endorsement.
DFLers not running for re-election to the MN Senate:
Keith Langseth
Linda Higgins
Endorsement contests:
- Republicans Michelle Benson and Michael Jungbauer were paired in the same district and are battling for the Republican endorsement. Both say they would abide by the party endorsement.
- DFLers John Marty and Mary Jo McGuire were paired and are battling for the DFL endorsement. Marty and McGuire say they'll abide by the party's endorsement.