Simon's 2013 fundraising total was several times larger than both of his opposing candidates' total collections last year.

Ritchie's previous assertions of authority independent of the Legislature have often proved controversial, especially among the state's Republicans.

Paymar's announcement set off waves of speculation over who might run to replace him.

Growe notes that Simon was an outspoken opponent of the proposed voter ID amendment, which Growe also opposed.

Rachel Larson Bohman wasted no time getting into the race for Minnesota secretary of state. Within an hour of DFL officeholder Mark Ritchie’s Tuesday announcement that he would not seek a third term in 2014, Bohman released a statement putting her name in the ring as a Democrat.

DFL Secretary of State Mark Ritchie announced Tuesday that he will not seek a third term next fall, and already there's a large field of potential candidates from both parties interested in the office, including activists and current and former legislators.

Ritchie, 61, said in a statement that stepping aside had been a "difficult decision" to make, and that he had arrived at his choice after consulting with family members.

One notable exception: Cravaack/Nolan CD 8 race

Our Vote Our Future, the main group opposing a proposed constitutional amendment requiring voters to show photo identification, released its first television spot. The commercial features former DFL Secretary of State Joan Growe, who held the office for more than two decades, and will be broadcast in the Twin Cities Market beginning Monday.

The retirement of DFL Sen. Linda Higgins from her District 58 Minneapolis seat set off a game of musical chairs in one of the most staunchly DFL areas in Minnesota.