ST. PAUL — Minnesota Republican legislator Jim Abeler said he’ll take his chances in a GOP primary for U.S. Senate against the party-endorsed candidate, Mike McFadden.

Abeler submitted candidate paperwork Tuesday, hours before the filing deadline. His plans had been in doubt since McFadden’s Republican endorsement at last weekend’s state convention forced other candidates from the race. The eventual nominee would face Democratic Sen. Al Franken and some third-party competitors.

Abeler is leaving the Legislature after eight terms, during which he carved out a health policy niche. He said some Republicans remain skeptical of McFadden.

But McFadden has a huge financial advantage and party assistance at his disposal.

Three other lesser-known GOP candidates will be on the Aug. 12 ballot, too.

Franken also has an obscure challenger in the Democratic primary.