by Dennis Dalman
A former mayor of St. Joseph, Richard Carlbom, is now managing the “Coleman for Governor” campaign for DFL contender Chris Coleman.
Carlbom said the campaign so far has raised more than $800,000 from residents throughout the state.
Coleman, 56, is an attorney and politician and was elected mayor of St. Paul in 2006, a term that will expire at the end of 2018. He hopes to be elected to replace Mark Dayton as Minnesota governor.
“This campaign is about how we are going to deliver economic freedom and security to all Minnesotans,” Coleman said. “That’s my vision for Minnesota and it’s resonating in all corners of the state. I am energized by our momentum heading into precinct caucuses.”
Carlbom managed the winning 2012 Marriage Equality effort in Minnesota. At 22, he was the youngest person ever elected mayor in his hometown – St. Joseph.
“We always knew that Chris would perform well in the Twin Cities among the critically important progressive DFL base,” Carlbom said. “Chris’ progressive record is based on a lifetime of actions, not words alone. Taken in tandem with the excitement we are seeing in Greater Minnesota – in places like Fergus Falls, Duluth, Moorhead, St. Cloud and across the Iron Range – I know we’re going to win this race.”
Coleman has earned the endorsements of the Iron Workers Local 512, Plumbers Local 34 and Pipefitters Local 455. He is the only candidate endorsed by any building trades labor unions. Coleman has also been endorsed by dozens of elected officials throughout Minnesota.