60 years of living and working in Minnesota has taught me that a balanced democracy can be a driving force for good in lives of Americans. At my age, being an empty-nester with 35 years of marriage, I am free of the foolish notions that seduce men and women with dreams of grandeur. Instead, my faith and inspiration guide me to live one day at a time with the knowledge that half measures avail us of nothing. That is why I will keep our agenda simple with the priority being what is necessary so we are free to decide whether to stay and live safely in the community we love.

Creating a single payer health care system in which everyone contributes on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay. Predictable free markets so that rural Minnesota can make long-term investments without fear of unpredictable trade wars. Border enforcement with the federal agents necessary to establish the orderly documentation of workers to enter, fill the demand of vacant jobs and then return to their families. Meeting governments that want to undermine our democracy with a modernized security force.

My life experience in Minnesota has taught me the value of public education at Albert Lea High School and the University of Minnesota. I experienced the necessity of quality affordable health care as a heart attack survivor at Rochester Mayo. I made a good living serving meals to my friends and neighbors in Alden. Throughout Minnesota, I have organized locally owned small businesses interested in a strong community to effectively compete against corporations only interested in stock prices. I have been grateful for the nursing care providers that have allowed my loved ones to live out their final days in peace and serenity in Albert Lea. All of my life experience has prepared me to listen, set respectful boundaries and have faith in the collective wisdom that blesses those of us that have lived together in the 1st Congressional District.

I will make one promise to the people of southern Minnesota that if elected as your congressman I will provide the best constituent services of any legislative office in this great country. As a current small business owner I understand who the customer is and what customer service is all about. Many people and business talk about transparency but very few deliver on it. When there is work to be done I show up early and I am usually the last to leave.

All elected officials whether government or party elected should strive to include all sides in any discussion of political issues. This country has had it share of civil discourse throughout the years but now we live in a time with worldwide instant communications. We tend to be quick to judge others or outcomes of various happenings without knowing the facts. We really need to talk to each other with respect. We don’t have to agree but in order for us to achieve success we must communicate effectively.

Before day 1 in office I will seek out like-minded congressmen and senators that want to build trust and cooperation between Democrats and Republicans. Too many times the American people are left on the short end of the stick because of personality conflicts of legislators or worse yet because of campaign money dumped into the fray. I do not wish for the demise of either major political party. Rather, I am pledged to work for America’s success.