 Former Minnesota Governor Tim Palenti says he plans to skip next month's Republican State Convention and go straight to the August primary. Palenti's move means that he won't seek the party endorsement. In a statement released earlier today, his campaign says the two-term governor entered the race too late to have a fair fight for the endorsement. Palenti says he will make his case to voters on August 14th in the primary instead. Palenti entered the race for his old seat last month. Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson is viewed as the front-runner for the endorsement which brings party support and money. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.