Dayton heads to DC for Dem governors meeting

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Democrat Mark Dayton is bound for Washington to meet with Democratic governors and governors-elect, even though he can't claim either title himself.

The former U.S. senator leads Republican Tom Emmer by more than 8,700 votes as Minnesota continues a statewide recount in the governor's race.

Dayton released a statement Tuesday saying he will attend the Democratic Governors Association's annual meeting on Wednesday by invitation.

His trip includes a luncheon with incoming Democratic governors and a meeting with White House Chief of Staff Pete Rouse.

Dayton says will be "ready to lead" on Jan. 3 if he is certified as the state's next governor. He says the meeting will help him prepare.

Dayton's transition team says the trip's cost is covered by private fundraising for the transition.

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