 Well, the open race for Minnesota State Auditor finally has a Republican candidate. Former Representative Pam Mayra registered to run late last week for the office. The office is being vacated by current state auditor Rebecca Otto, who is running for the Democratic nomination for governor. The state auditor oversees local government spending. Also Republican David Osmek says he's ending his campaign for governor. Osmek, a state senator from Mound, says he decided to drop out after discussing prospects with family and supporters over the holidays. He finished fifth of seven candidates in a straw poll at the party's state central committee meeting in December. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.