Former senator Rod Grams still pondering run for governor

by T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol Reporter

Former Republican U.S. senator Rod Grams is still weighing entering the race for governor.

He’s “kind of leaning that way,” said Grams. Grams said he wanted to see the Republican field fully form — he believes there’s a better than 50-50 chance that former U.S. senator Norm Coleman will enter the Republican gubernatorial fray.

“He’s (Coleman) got nothing to lose,” said Grams, adding that Coleman has the ability to raise campaign funds.

The only thing that might keep Coleman out are family considerations, Grams explained.

Having Coleman enter the race does not preclude him from running, Grams said.

Although saying there are candidates in the field he likes, Grams questions whether any of them has the “guts” to carry out the fiscal measures he believes necessary.

Grams said he would probably make the decision on whether to get in or stay out of the race after the first of the year.

He will not be attending the Republican state convention on Saturday.