Minn. Mayors Considering Run for Governor 2010?

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - Many people are throwing their hat into the governor's race, but the mayor's of Minneapolis and St. Paul face a unique predicament. They're running for re-election while strongly considering a run for governor next year.

Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak added fuel to the fire at an event in Eagan over the weekend, talking about the governor's race.

“I’m strongly leaning towards running," said the mayor at the event.

Hamline Law Professor David Schultz says the question is how candid is the candidate. “Clearly if they're honest about what they're intention it may damage going from one step to another," said Schultz.

St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman faces the same predicament. He is running for re-election in 2009. A spokesperson says he's strongly considering a run for governor in 2010. Even his campaign signs are generic with only his name posted, not the office he's running for.

For Rybak and Coleman, the mayor's office provides a unique bully pulpit and maybe job security.

If Rybak is re-elected mayor, then elected governor, the council president would take over until a special election is held. In St. Paul, the deputy mayor takes over until a special election. The costs for special elections vary, but can be considerable.