Two of the leading candidates for the Republican endorsement for governor are scheduled to be in Brainerd Friday night for a Constitutional Candidate Forum at Franklin Arts Center in Brainerd.

The forum, sponsored by the Brainerd area-based Minnesota Freedom Council and the radio station 3WI, will feature Rep. Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, and Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Delano.

The event is scheduled from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday at Franklin Arts Center. It is billed as a discussion with candidates on the Constitution, limited government and states' rights.

Lon Schmidt of 3WI said all Democrats, Independence and Republican candidates for the 8th Congressional District and for governor were invited to attend. He said some had conflicts and others failed to respond.

Candidates and possible candidates for the 8th Congressional District who indicated they would attend include Chip Cravaack, Darrel Trulson, George Burton and Justin Eichorn.

The Minnesota Freedom Council was one of the organizing groups behind "Operation Awaken - Citizen's Call to Duty," which was conducted at Central Lakes College last December.

Moderators at the forum will be Guy Green of the council and Schmidt.