ST. PAUL — Republican Matt Dean is dropping out of the Minnesota governor’s race.

Dean said Thursday the party needs to unite around a single candidate, and he endorsed Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson.

Democrat Mark Dayton isn’t seeking another term. A crowded field of Republicans is seeking to take his place. One heavyweight, former two-term Gov. Tim Pawlenty, is said to be weighing a bid after passing on a U.S. Senate run.

Dean, a state representative, said he has no plans to seek another term in the House.