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As state conventions start this weekend, the DFL\u2019s presumptive frontrunner for governor now has a running mate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar announced former Fergus Falls mayor Ben Schierer as her lieutenant governor choice on Friday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to formerly leading Fergus Falls for two terms starting in 2016, Schierer had also been running to replace State Auditor Julie Blaha, who isn\u2019t seeking reelection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That means Klobuchar\u2019s announcement could impact that race, where the other DFL frontrunner is Rep. Dan Wolgamott (DFL-St. Cloud).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBen Schierer hasn\u2019t just talked about how to create opportunities in Minnesota \u2013 he\u2019s actually done it,\u201d Klobuchar said. \u201cHe knows what it takes to run a small business \u2013 he\u2019s run two of them. He knows what it takes to hammer out results by bringing together the private sector, the public sector, and the people \u2013 because that\u2019s what he did as mayor. And he knows that transforming our government can\u2019t happen without economic growth. Together, we will bring that approach to our state government.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI am proud and excited to join the ticket and work with Senator Klobuchar to lead this state with a growth agenda,\u201d Schierer said. \u201cWith experience as a small business owner and a father of five, I know the hard work it takes to support a family and run a business. And as a former mayor devoted to rural economic development, I know how important it is to elect a Governor who will focus on expanding our economy and creating good jobs for Minnesotans across this state. Amy Klobuchar gets it \u2013 she shows up time and time again, in all 87 counties \u2013 and I am ready to partner with her to get things done for our families, our communities, and our state.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The DFL is expected to endorse its gubernatorial candidate on Friday night. Gov. Tim Walz, who isn\u2019t seeking reelection, isn\u2019t expected to attend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The 52-year-old Schierer has experience as a former mayor and small business owner, and he also served on the Fergus Falls City Council starting in 2004. He currently works with the West Central Initiative, a regional non-profit dedicated to economic development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n