Democrats Have Money Edge In Key Minnesota Races

     ST. PAUL (AP) - Minnesota Democrats enjoy campaign cash advantages in all races for statewide office as the party seeks to keep its current grip on power.

Gov. Mark Dayton reported Tuesday having $847,000 available as of July 21, well more than any Republican vying to be the nominee against him.

Attorney General Lori Swanson was out front of Republican challenger Scott Newman, but not substantially. Both Democratic candidates for state auditor - incumbent Rebecca Otto and former state Rep. Matt Entenza - were outpacing the Republican opponent Randy Gilbert in available cash.

In the race for an open secretary of state's office, Rep. Steve Simon had a wide money lead over the GOP's Dan Severson.

And in the fight for state House control, a Democratic campaign arm has double what Republicans have left.