ST. PAUL, Minn. – State Sen. David Osmek (R-Mound) has suspended his campaign for governor, urging other Republican candidates not “getting traction” to follow his lead.
The field of GOP contenders hoping to succeed Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton is narrowing with Osmek being the latest candidate to withdraw from the race.
After discussing his campaign with family and supporters over the holidays, Osmek made the decision to suspend his campaign. Osmek admitted his dismal 5th place performance in the straw poll at the Republican Party of Minnesota’s State Central Committee meeting in December played a part in the decision.
“The results of the Governor sample ballot at the Republican State Central Meeting on Dec. 2nd weren’t what our campaign was hoping for and I strongly believe Republicans must unite behind the strongest candidate for Governor as soon as possible,” Osmek said in a press release.
Reiterating his commitment to fully supporting the Republican endorsed candidate, Osmek encouraged other GOP candidates who are not “getting traction” with party activists to back out of the race and present a united front to Democratic candidates.
“I still strongly feel we need a Governor candidate who will be a fighter for conservative values and will stand up to the failed liberal policies that are slowing our state’s potential,” Osmek added.
Osmek is currently serving his second term in the Minnesota State Senate.
