McGovern eyes running against Thune for Senate race next year in SD

Matt McGovern, the grandson of former Sen. George McGovern, is emerging as a potential contender to Thune, who is seeking his second term in the Senate. The few big names in the Democratic Party have already committed to other races, and a thin bench could give McGovern a clear shot at Thune.


McGovern, 37, is the state director for Repower America, a national group founded by former Vice President Al Gore to promote clean energy and policies that address climate change. He also served as President Obama's state chairman during last year's campaign.

In an interview last week, McGovern said he's not a candidate for any office right now. His first priority is to encourage lawmakers to support policies that would create thousands of clean-energy jobs in South Dakota.


"It's flattering to hear your name mentioned in that way," he said. "I've always been interested in public service."

McGovern is the son of George McGovern's daughter, Susan, and until a few years ago he went by the name Matt McGovern-Rowen.

http://www.argusleader.com/article/20091029/NEWS/910290326/1001/news/McGovern-grandson-pegged-as-possible-Thune-challenger