Radio Host Turned Senator Joins Minnesota Governor Fray

ST. PAUL (AP) - State Sen. Dave Thompson says if he's elected Minnesota governor he'd bypass old solutions to state problems, seek voucher-like tax credits to enhance school choice and promise to "get out of your way."

Thompson hit the road Wednesday for his opening campaign swing. He's the fourth Republican in the race, with others still mulling a challenge Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton next year.

Thompson is from Lakeville. In elective office for just three years, Thompson built a following as a conservative talk radio show host. He says he won't run in a 2014 primary without the GOP endorsement. He has riled unions by seeking right-to-work law in Minnesota.

Three fellow Republicans in the race are former House Speaker Kurt Zellers, businessman Scott Honour and Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson.