Downey Would Consider Run for Higher Office 'If it Made Sense'

State Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina) may be in the process of trying to defeat Melisa Franzen (DFL) in the close race for Senate District 49, but he's not ruling out higher political aspirations.

In an interview with Minnesota Public Radio, Downey was asked if he'd given any consideration to running for higher office at some point. The Edina Republican said he's more focused on his current run for Senate, but admitted it's something he'd consider.

"We're out door knocking for a senate seat and I'm just trying to meet as many people as I can," Downey said. "I'm flattered when people mention it. If the state were ever in a position where they're looking for somebody with my kind of background and experience, and it made sense to run for something else, I might consider it. But all I'm focused on is my senate district and I have ten more precincts to campaign in over the next few weeks."  

MPR reports Downey is among several prominent Republican names being batted around as possible candidates for governor in 2014. In addition to Downey, MPR's list includes former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman, GOP House Speaker Kurt Zellers, Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek, Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson and State Sen. Dave Thompson.

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