This post has been modified to correct the number of people receiving the letter. It is more than 1,000, not more than 7,000.
A letter imploring more than 1,000 DFL activists to get behind an effort to draft Rep. Rick Nolan to run for governor is going out this week.
The letter, signed by lawmakers, lobbyists and prominent DFL activists, makes the case that if the DFL doesn't change course, Minnesota could be on the precipice of what Nolan backers call a disaster -- that Minnesota would become like Gov. Scott Walker's Wisconsin.
The DFL lost the Senate for the next four years in the November election, and the House is viewed as safely Republican in 2018, which means the GOP could consolidate their hold on power in St. Paul by winning the governor's race.
Nolan,73, represents the Eighth Congressional District and has been re-elected in two hard fought campaigns since winning the seat in 2012. He also served three terms during the 1970s.
Nolan said in January he has been asked to run and is considering it.
The letter from the "Coalition to Draft Rick Nolan for Governor" is signed by more than 100 DFLers including Iron Range Reps. Jason Metsa and Rob Ecklund and Sen. David Tomassoni, as well as former Minneapolis Council President Jackie Cherryhomes.
The letter touts Nolan's ability to compete for rural votes, raise money and win close elections.
