My Response to the Star Tribune Voter Guide Candidate Survey

I completed the Star Tribune voter guide candidate survey. Out of the dozen or so questionnaires it’s the only thing I’ve responded to since filing. I decided I didn’t want group endorsements because it's not groups I want to represent in St. Paul - it's the PEOPLE of Minneapolis. The Star Tribune asked if I agreed or disagreed (strongly or somewhat), didn’t know, had no opinion or did not wish to respond to the following statements (in bold). I answered everything “do not wish to respond” since the questions were misleading to voters. I’m providing more accurate information here:

1. The state should raise income taxes to raise revenues for K-12 schools and health care.

The average Minnesota family pays $8,400 in state taxes – excluding property and local taxes – according to the Taxpayers League of Minnesota. We are #6 (nationwide) for highest income taxes. Based on data from the Minnesota Management & Budget website 46% general fund dollars come from personal income tax and K-12 spending and Health & Human services account for 66.7% of where that money goes! What accountability is there for revenue currently raised?

2. Minnesota should pass an Arizona-like immigration law that requires law enforcement to check immigration status during routine stops.

Are Minnesota news outlets ignoring drug and violence problems on the Canadian border? In 2009 ABC News claimed Phoenix is the kidnapping capital of the U.S. because of Mexican drug cartel violence. Is International Falls #2? Minnesota should enact legislation that protects Minnesotans.

3. The state should cap public health care spending at all levels -- including nursing homes -- to bring down the deficit.

Is nursing home spending the cause of the deficit? Families and businesses spend what they earn and this is a principle that government has neglected for too long.

4. The state should not use a tax subsidy to help the Vikings build a new stadium.

A Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota poll found 64% of Minnesotans oppose public funding for a stadium. With 30% support for a tax subsidy the Star Tribune doesn’t need this question.

5. Workings across the aisle is one of the most important things a legislator can do.

Working collaboratively is important. Listening to constituents, being accountable and acting with integrity are the most important things a legislator can do.