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ST. PAUL, Minn. — State Sen. Dave Thompson is joining the growing list of Republicans who plan to run for governor next year.

Thompson tells The Associated Press he plans to file as a candidate Monday and launch his campaign Wednesday. He has represented Lakeville in the state Senate since 2011.

Thompson is an attorney and former talk radio host. He is a favorite of fiscal conservative and tea party activists.

Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson and businessman Scott Honour are also running to challenge Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton.

Former House Speaker Kurt Zellers is holding an event later Sunday to talk about his plans.