Endorsing conventions to replace Sviggum are scheduled for Monday

The Republican and DFL parties will hold endorsing conventions on Monday to select a candidate to replace Republican Representative Steve Sviggum who is resigning to become the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Sviggum has represented House District 28B since 1978.

There are several candidates who are vying for the job. Republican House Minority Leader Marty Seifert says there are at least five candidates who will attend their endorsing convention in Zumbrota. They are Jennifer Berquam of Wanamingo, Steve Drazkowski of Wabasha, Rod Johnson of Cannon Falls, Mena Kaehler of St. Charles and Dave Neil of Pine Island.

There are at least two candidates seeking the DFL endorsement at their party's convention in Kellogg. Wes Moreland of Pine Island and Jeff Flaten of Kenyon. Moreland is the only candidate to file the official paperwork with the Secretary of State's Office.

A July 24th primary will be held if more than one candidate from each party files for the seat. Governor Pawlenty has called a special election for August seventh to fill the seat.