Republican Dennis Nguyen launches campaign for Secretary of State

Minneapolis financial executive Dennis Nguyen officially launched his campaign for Minnesota Secretary of State on Sunday, making him the first Republican to join the race.

Nguyen, who serves as chairman of New Asia Partners and Newport Capital, both Minneapolis-based financial services firms, kicked off his campaign for the state’s top elections official at a Capitol news conference.

“I have been fortunate to live the classic American dream, arriving here as the child of working class, Vietnamese immigrants, getting a great education and succeeding in business,” Nguyen said in a statement. “As Secretary of State, I want to make sure that dream is available to all Minnesotans – through their right to vote and participate in elections, and in their ability to start and grow a business.”

DFL Secretary of State Mark Ritchie has said he will not run for re-election next fall. Former Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer, who is now a Republican state senator, has said she’s considering a run for the seat. Kent Kaiser, who worked with Kiffmeyer in the secretary of state’s office, has also said he’s considering running as a Republican in the race. DFL Reps. Deb Hilstrom and Steve Simon have already launched campaigns for the post.

Nguyen was joined by former Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum, who is chairing his campaign committee, as well as several current and former state lawmakers, including Reps. Cindy Pugh and Brian Johnson and Sens. Dave Osmek and Dave Senjem.