Dayton Recount Manager Runs To Head Minn. DFL

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- A Democratic strategist who ran Gov.-elect Mark Dayton's recount operation says he wants to lead the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

Ken Martin announced his candidacy for party chairman on Monday, saying he wants to steer the DFL as Republicans take over the state Legislature and the U.S. House.

Another potential chairman candidate, attorney Mike Rothman, threw his support to Martin.

Martin headed two political funds that raised and spent millions to help put a Democrat in the governor's office for the first time in 20 years.

He also led a campaign that helped pass a constitutional amendment dedicating sales tax proceeds to the outdoors and the arts.

Current DFL chairman Brian Melendez is stepping down. The party's central committee meets Feb. 5 to pick a new leader.

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