Gutknecht considering run for U.S. Senate

[Dickie Flatt]

http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/news/breaking_news/10693385.htm?1c

Rep. Gil Gutknecht said Thursday he is considering running for U.S. Senate next year, putting his name on a list of potential Republican candidates that already includes fellow Minnesota Rep. Mark Kennedy.

Gutknecht, a 10-year House veteran, has staked out an independent position on some issues, particularly on allowing Americans to import drugs from Canada.

"I recognize I have to make a decision, for sure one way or another, fairly soon," Gutknecht said in an interview at an inaugural reception sponsored by the Minnesota State Society. ...

Gutknecht, who represents Rochester, said he didn't envision a primary battle with Kennedy. Instead, switching on a "Godfather" voice, Gutknecht said he hoped it would be settled "by a meeting of all the families" - state party leaders and Minnesota Republicans in Congress.