Dayton Done?!?

From the Strib (thanks Fraters)

Dayton expected to bow out of re-election bid

Greg Gordon, Star Tribune Washington Bureau Correspondent
February 10, 2005

WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Minnesota Democratic sources said they believe Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn., will announce today that he will not seek reelection to a second term in the Senate.

Two knowledgeable Democratic sources said Dayton was believed to have made the decision because of a series of events that darkened his reelection prospects.

A telephone news conference is schedule in just a bit 12:30PM.

Now the speculation begins on who the front runners are for the endorsement. I have already shared my speculation here and here, although I admit it is a dark horse pick.

More thoughts later.

UPDATE-:

Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn., said today that he will not run for re-election in 2006. ''I do not believe that I am the best candidate to lead the DFL Party to victory next year,'' Dayton said in a conference phone call with reporters.

Flash