St. Paul mayor to seek re-election Eds: APNewsNow.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman says he's running for re-election this year.

The first-term mayor is promising progress on issues such as education and public safety in Minnesota's capital city, despite a state budget deficit.

Coleman says state cuts to cities and counties have gone too far. He says the cuts are now at the level where they will "significantly impact our ability to deliver." Coleman, a former City Council member, re-entered politics in 2005 and defeated incumbent Mayor Randy Kelly, a fellow Democrat.

Coleman is mentioned as a possible candidate for governor next year. But he says he remains focused on serving St. Paul, and would not confirm or deny plans for seeking higher office.

Information from: Minnesota Public Radio News, http://www.mpr.org (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-07-09 1829CST | save this article / add to your favorites list