Anoka Republican Wades Into Minnesota Senate Race

State Rep. Jim Abeler announced his campaign Tuesday. He hadn't been on the public radar for the seat now held by Democratic Sen. Al Franken.

Abeler is a chiropractor who has been in the Minnesota House for 15 years. He is the second GOP candidate, joining business executive Mike McFadden.

In his e-mailed announcement, Abeler says he believes America "is in trouble" because of what he calls "compulsive" government spending and erosion of personal privacy.

Abeler has specialized in health care issues as a lawmaker. He and his wife have six sons.