Another Republican hat in the ring in governor's race

The latest Republican to announce a 2014 challenge to Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton is Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson.

At a campaign kickoff event in Hamel, Minn., Johnson said his priorities include jobs, education, and an improved government, MPR reports.

The Associated Press notes that Johnson, a former state legislator, cast himself as a candidate who is conservative enough to gain GOP endorsement, but will also appeal to those outside the party. "We can't win a statewide race with only Republican votes," Johnson told supporters.

Johnson is the second candidate to announce, joining businessman Scott Honour in taking a run at the GOP nomination.

Johnson serves in the state Republican Party's leadership ranks, making him familiar to party regulars who will endorse a candidate.

Dayton has said repeatedly that he will seek re-election.