Nolan rules out race for governor

U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan announced Friday that he will forego a run for Minnesota governor, and focus, instead, on his work in Washington.

“After much thought and consideration with my wife Mary, friends, and family, I have decided not to run for governor of Minnesota," Nolan said. The challenges and consequences of the issues facing our nation in Washington are too important for me to walk away from at this time.

“Moreover, while I’ve received lots of encouragement to run for governor, both from within the 8th District and throughout the state, some of the strongest sentiments have come from constituents who want me to continue the successful work I’ve been able to do in Congress.

Nolan stressed that the threats to America's future are more significant that at any time in recent history.

“America is at a tipping point, and I feel compelled to devote all of my energy and experience to moving our nation forward– and to stopping powerful elements determined to roll back a century of American progress that has doubled life expectancy and created the greatest middle class the world has ever known. These destructive forces cannot be allowed to succeed."

Nolan called for a change in the way politics works in the U.S. "It is imperative that we put an end to the toxic special interest money that is poisoning our campaigns and destroying people’s confidence in our government. The very survival of our democracy is at stake."

The Timberjay expects to have more on this story in its June 9 edition.