 And former Minnesota Governor Tim Paulini says he's considering running for that Senate seat in 2018. The Republican governor and one-time presidential candidate insisted Friday that he's still politically retired. But he says Franken's resignation has forced him and others to think about how to improve the state and the nation. He spoke after addressing a local chamber of commerce event. Paulini would be a prized recruit in for the Republicans hoping to capitalize on Franken's resignation amid a cloud of sexual misconduct allegations. Paulini became the last Republican to win a statewide election in Minnesota when he won his second term in 2006. He considered running for Senate before he decided to run for governor. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.