Significant updates to our "Who’s on First" 2010 race for governor matrix

Saturday’s
GOP state central committee meeting flushed out new candidates running
for governor. Notably, former House Speaker and current Department of
Labor & Industry Commissioner Steve Sviggum is joining the
fray. Given his track record of taking the Republicans from the
minority to the majority in the House — and raising millions to do so
– puts him in the top tier of candidates (to the extent I can discern
one).

Sen. Michelle Fischbach (R-Paynesville) is also exploring a run.

And, contrary to earlier statements, the St. Paul Pioneer Press‘ Bill Salisbury wrote this weekend,"After addressing the convention, Lt. Gov. Carol
Molnau said she has not ruled out running. She said she would make a
decision about her future after discussing it with her family in July." I’m betting Molnau ultimately rules out a run.

The updated, "Who’s on First" is here.

As an aside, the right team won the top leadership posts this weekend. New party chair Tony Sutton
brings his record of smart tactician and expert execution of basic
party functions like grassroots organizing; new deputy chair Michael Brodkorb brings aggressive pit-bullishness and energy, and secretary / treasurer David Sturrock, party stability and knowledge in a post that requires both.