Elections 2 Mark Dayton

on january 16, 2009, dayton announced candidacy governor of minnesota. in crowded democratic field of challengers, dayton chose bypass state caucuses , convention in favor of primary election. stated made decision because primary election more democratic method of choosing candidate. possibly due known dislike of fundraising campaigns, relied on personal funds campaign. on may 24, 2010, announced state senator yvonne prettner solon of duluth running mate lieutenant governor. on august 10, 2010, dayton defeated dfl-endorsed margaret anderson kelliher in close primary election, 41.33% 39.75%;) dayton later endorsed minnesota dfl earn party s nomination governor.

in general election on november 2, 2010, dayton led republican opponent, tom emmer, @ close of balloting under 9,000 votes. margin of victory small enough trigger automatic recount under state law. analysts thought unlikely dayton s lead overturned. during hand recount of ballots, emmer failed find enough questionable ballots overturn dayton s lead. emmer conceded election on december 8, 2010.

minnesota independence party candidate tom horner received 11.9% of vote, , has been suggested horner cost emmer election splitting vote.