DFL State Convention continues in Rochester, incumbents Ellison, Simon endorsed

(ABC 6 News) – The DFL State Convention is being held in Rochester this weekend at the Mayo Civic Center. Day two of three continued on Saturday with many incumbent endorsements.

The DFL Party endorsed incumbents Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan on Friday.

"I wake up every day fortified and grateful to be associated with the people in this room and the values of the DFL party," Gov. Walz said.

Attorney General Keith Ellison also earned the trust of nearly all DFL delegates at the convention.

"I’m fighting to make sure Minnesotans, every Minnesotan, each Minnesotan has the resources that they need to stand up and experience true prosperity. We can afford that if we open it up and make it fair," Ellison said.

Over 500 delegates also endorsed Steve Simon for Secretary of State.

State Auditor Julie Blaha was also endorsed for the second time by the DFL. As State Auditor, Blaha oversees over $60 billion in government spending. Her opponent, Ryan Wilson, was endorsed last weekend by Minnesota Republicans.

"My opponent has had a history of politicizing issues, building up the drama, building up big headlines. My approach, however, has been simply calming things down, making them work effectively, and getting things done. So, the choice is really between drama and solutions," Blaha said.

She said what she’s most excited about this year is getting out into Minnesota communities.

Other lawmakers including Sen. Tina Smith spoke at the convention.

"So for once, I am not on the ballot this year. But I am so ready to be in this fight this election," Sen. Smith said.

The convention wraps up on Sunday.