Dayton Backs Nolan

(AP)  Eighth District Congressional candidate Rick Nolan has picked up a big endorsement.  Governor Mark Dayton is giving Nolan the nod, saying Nolan is a "proven leader who can get past the partisan gridlock and get things done."

Nolan has a long history in northern MN politics, having served in the 6th District from 1975 to 1981.  He won the DFL party endorsement last spring.

Nolan's biggest rival in the August 14th primary is former state Senator Tarryl Clark, who moved into the 8th District following an unsuccessful campaign against 6th District Congresswoman Michelle Bachman in 2010.  Clark has received an endorsement from former President Bill Clinton.