Seifert backs Sawalich for MN GOP chair

In the latest high-profile endorsement of his run at Minnesota GOP chair, businessman Brandon Sawalich has picked up the support of former House Minority Leader Marty Seifert.

Seifert’s endorsement, announced via Twitter Tuesday night, came the same day Sawalich saw two other Republicans rumored to be mulling runs of their own line up behind his candidacy. Senate Health and Human Services Chairman David Hann sent a letter on Tuesday to fellow Republicans endorsing Sawalich. Veteran GOP strategist Pat Shortridge also announced he was backing Sawalich’s bid.

Seifert’s endorsement was short and to the point, simply stating, “Happy to support [Sawalich] for State GOP Chair.” Following the sudden resignation of former MN GOP Chairman Tony Sutton, Seifert was among a group of Republicans some thought might make a run for the post themselves.

For now, the only other officially announced candidate for the chair position is Todd McIntyre, who’s active in District 45 GOP politics, according to True North. Republicans will gather on New Year’s Eve in St. Cloud to pick a new chair, who will be immediately faced with a mountain of debt and questions about the party’s fiscal management left over from the Sutton era.