Dayton Expects Minn. Running Mate Pick 'Shortly'

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton says he has had preliminary conversations with potential running mates and hopes to choose one "shortly."

Dayton refused Wednesday to reveal who he has talked to about replacing Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon. She announced Tuesday that she won't appear with him on the fall ballot but will serve out her final year.

The governor has until June to finalize his ticket, but he says he anticipates acting much sooner. He declined to give a specific timetable. He spoke of the importance of having gender balance in the role, but stopped short of saying a woman would be picked.

Possible picks include state Sen. Katie Sieben of Newport, his chief of staff Tina Smith and former state Rep. Tony Sertich.

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