ST. PAUL  (AP) - A Republican who's not well known in state political circles is joining the race to unseat Democratic U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

St. Bonifacius city council member Joe Arwood will announce a Senate bid later Monday. He becomes the second Republican seeking to challenge Klobuchar.

Former state Rep. Dan Severson of Sauk Rapids has been in the race since May.

Republicans are struggling to come up with a well-known name with proven fundraising ability to take on Klobuchar, who has a high approval rating and won her first race with a commanding margin.

A release from Arwood's campaign says he will push for a simpler tax code and lower taxes. He plans to file paperwork to start a campaign this week.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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