Minnesota Republicans meet today (SAT) to elect a new chairman during a difficult time for the party. Party officials say the state GOP is nearly $1.3 million in debt – and legal expenses could bring that total to $2 million. Party Chairman Tony Sutton resigned December 2nd amid internal criticism of party finances. The GOP is due to elect a replacement today when its Central Committee meets in St. Cloud. Besides Sutton’s resignation, the party has been rocked in recent weeks by a scandal involving Senator Amy Koch, who resigned as majority leader and then acknowledged an improper relationship with a male staffer. Candidates to lead the party include political consultant Pat Shortridge, businessman Todd McIntyre and Terry McCall, the party’s 2nd District chairman. Others could emerge at today’s meeting