State Rep May Challenge Klobuchar

State Rep. Jim Newberger (R) said Tuesday he is “definitely considering” a challenge to Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D) and that a final decision would come this weekend. Newberger “said he would abide by the Republican Party’s endorsement in the race, which means if delegates at next year’s convention do not choose him … he would drop out and not run in a primary.”

“Newberger, who is vice chair of the House Job Growth and Energy Affordability Policy and Finance committee, said energy issues would be a major focus of his campaign, should he run. … An affable member of the Legislature, Newberger is a paramedic by profession.”

Klobuchar, who handily won her last two races, so far faces no declared opponent. (St. Paul Pioneer Press)