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In the upcoming election, we will determine Minnesota’s future. We can continue with more of the same, or we can collectively decide that we deserve more.
If we continue on the same path, we know what Lakeville is in for; more partisan bickering than results, politicians that put party loyalty over people, and millions more wasted taxpayers dollars with nothing to show for it. For the second time during Pawlenty’s Administration, we have a staggering budget crisis. The core functions of our government are suffering, and all we get in response are slogans and stop-gap measures.
When elected as your State Representative, I will address our budget problems by making our tax dollars go as far as possible. As an attorney who works with government contracts on a daily basis, I have seen first-hand too much money is wasted through inefficient practices, and a failure of oversight. What I have learned can only be taught by real-world experiences, and not committee meetings.
In my family, when I pay for something I make sure I get it. And our government should do the same. But a recent report shows MnDOT has wasted over $140 Million by mismanaging contracts (a number that will grow because some contracts are still ongoing). Think of all the priorities that the money should have been spent on instead. We could have invested in hard-working citizens, encouraged job growth, focused on failing schools, tackled our health care crisis, or simply written a check to every man, woman and child in the State.
Real fiscal responsibility demands accountability for spending. Voting against budgets does little to fix the underlying problems. I will fix the law that made the 35W Bridge cost $87 Million more than it should have. I will support a system that allows private businesses to police government spending. I will use my real-world experience to ensure that Minnesota gets the most for its money. I will put an end to the loophole that allows out-of-state businesses to avoid paying Minnesota taxes. This will help local businesses compete by leveling the playing field. When elected, I will focus on long-term planning to reduce costs and paying only what we can afford.
Personal responsibility begins with our legislators doing their job. I will make sure our roads and bridges are safe, and work to ease the congestion that strangles our economy and standard of living. I will continue to fight rising property taxes, and would not vote against property-tax relief like our current Representative. I supported the DFL-led legislation that made health care more affordable. I will close the loophole in background checks that endangers our children and the public.
With your help, we can get our government to focus on its core responsibilities. With your help, we can get past government shutdowns and extra legislative sessions. With your help, we can make government work!
Sincerely,
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