Associated Press - November 6, 2009 4:54 PM ET

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Senate Minority Leader Paul McKinley has dropped out of the race for governor, saying he'll focus on electing Republicans to the Legislature.

McKinley's announcement Friday wasn't surprising because he'd earlier said he'd drop his bid for the Republican nomination if former Gov. Terry Branstad entered the race. Branstad hasn't made an official announcement but has been traveling the state and hiring staff.

Republican still in the race include businessman Christian Fong and Bob Vander Plaats, former House Speaker Christopher Rants, Rep. Rod Roberts and Sen. Jerry Behn. Branstad also is widely expected to run.

Gov. Chet Culver also hasn't formally declared his candidacy for the Democratic nomination but is expected to seek a second term.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.