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GOP-endorsed gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls told MPR News Thursday that “the pocketbook issues of everyday Minnesotans” would be his top focus if elected and that he’d be happy to get the backing of President Donald Trump.

Qualls locked in the party's endorsement over the weekend after a messy convention that caused headaches for state GOP leaders as more candidates than expected entered the party's Aug.11 primary for governor. 

House Speaker Lisa Demuth to run in GOP primary for governor

While he’ll have to win the primary to make November's ballot, Qualls told All Things Considered host Clay Masters his support as the endorsed Republican is “rock solid” among the party faithful.

The primary will include Trump ally and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell. Trump hasn’t weighed in on the race, but “if the president wants to endorse this campaign, I'm all in,” Qualls said. “Who wouldn't want an endorsement from the president of the United States?

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GOP-endorsed gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls told MPR News Thursday that economic issues would be his top focus if elected and that he’d be “all in” if President Donald Trump chose to endorse him.

Qualls sees 'pocketbook issues' as key to Minnesota governor's race

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