Statement about running for governor: "As the Ramsey County Attorney I work hard to keep our communities safe.  I do that by being tough and decisive ... . Consequences are only part of the solution: hope is the other part.  Hope is developing programs to keep kids in school and off the streets; hope is making sure children's health and basic necessities are provided for; and hope is providing opportunity for meaningful jobs for the next generation.

"That's how I have approached my work in law enforcement, and it's how I will approach my work if I go on to become Governor of Minnesota. As your Governor I will lead with integrity, make tough decisions, and give hope to our children and grandchildren that we, Minnesota's most populous and  prosperous generation, will leave to them a state that through our sacrifice and leadership is not just good enough — but great." — From Susan Gaertner website.

Party: DFL

Current government position: Ramsey County Attorney

Elected: 1994

Term: 4th

Occupation: Attorney

Birth date:

Home: White Bear Lake

Education: B.A., political science, University of Minnesota – Duluth; University of Minnesota Law School

Website: Susan Gaertner Governor 2010

E-mail: info@susangaertner.com

Key issues and priorities: Gaertner is focused on the state's children: creating programs to keep them in school and off the streets, providing them with their basic health needs and giving the opportunities for jobs that will make a difference for the future.

Political experience: Ramsey County Attorney, in 4th term; served twice as president of the Minnesota County Attorney's Association

Background articles:

"RNC 8 prosecutor talks trial strategy, politics"

"Susan Gaertner: A court system starved equals justice denied"