Third Challenger Steps Into Ring Against Walz

According to the Rochester Post-Bulletin, Randy Demmer, a four-year member of the Minnesota House, has indicated he will run for Congress in Minnesota's 1st district. Two other Republicans have already declared their intentions for the same seat, Sen. Dick Day of Owatonna and Lake Crystal Welcome Memorial school board member Mark Meyer. Demmer, a business consultant from Hayfield, near Rochester, said at the Olmsted County Republican Convention recently, "The district fits me very well. It's really a mirror of the district that I represent in the Minnesota House."

In 2006, Demmer was re-elected to his seat by 58% of the vote, defeating longtime labor activist Wes Urevig.

Demmer is known to be a strong supporter of agricultural interests. According to Project Vote Smart, he votes with business interests (Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, National Federation of Independent Business) 75-100% of the time, with labor interests 0-40% of the time, and in the interest of the Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life, an anti-abortion group, 100% of the time. In addition, he has received "A" ratings from the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund and Minnesota Concealed Carry Reform, Now! (CCRN!).

Another possible candidate for the seat held by freshman Congressman Tim Walz is Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau, according to the National Journal.