Koering Shelves a Gubernatorial Bid

State Senator Paul Koering of Fort Ripley has abandoned his dream of occupying the Governor's Mansion. The two term Republican says he will, instead, run for reelection to his District 12 Senate seat.

Koering cited multiple reasons for pulling the chain on Minnesota's top spot. He said there was a lack of money, lack of support and a potential challenger for his current seat from with in the party. He says others have told him that former State Representative Paul Gazelka may challenge him for the party's standard. Gazelka served one term in House District 12 B, before being replaced by current State Rep. John Ward.