Jun 6, 2006 11:59 am US/Central
Bar Owner To Challenge Gov. In Primary
St. Paul (AP) ―
A Minneapolis bar owner said she'll challenge Gov. Tim Pawlenty in September's Republican primary.
Stub & Herbs owner Sue Jeffers announced in an e-mail Monday that she will take on Pawlenty, who was endorsed for a second term by the state Republican Party last week.
"I'm taking my case straight to the people, and the powers that be in the party can't shut me up anymore," she said.
Jeffers wanted to give GOP delegates a choice at their convention, but a committee decided only Pawlenty should be considered. Party leaders say Jeffers' ties with the Libertarian Party make her Republican credentials suspect.
Jeffers has criticized Pawlenty for his support of increased state spending and a Twins ballpark plan.
Democrats are holding their state convention this weekend and plan to endorse a candidate. A primary battle is possible in the DFL as well.
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