September 30, 2011
Winona Daily News
By Mary Juhl

Partisan bickering marks veterans job summit

By Steve Vogel - Washington Post - September 13, 2011

A Capitol Hill summit Tuesday on veterans employment erupted into an acrimonious and partisan debate over the government’s role in creating jobs for veterans.

The event, billed as a summit to discuss best practices for hiring veterans into the private sector, began on a testy note during opening statements when Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.), criticized chairman Rep. Jeff Miller (R-Fla.) for suggesting the government should stay out of the way of businesses that are creating jobs for veterans.

“To say we don’t have a role in this is just ridiculous,” said Filner, who was chairman of the committee until the Republicans took control of the House in January.

Miller said the “government’s role is to create a business environment” that supports job creation. “I will do everything I can to keep the foot of government off businesses that create jobs,” Miller added.

Filner complained that the House has not passed any legislation to aid unemployed veterans during the current session. “Everybody says jobs, jobs, jobs, but we haven’t done anything as a Congress about it,” he said

Miller and Filner continued interrupting each other and trading barbs as representatives of 30 businesses, industries and associations gathered for the summit at the Cannon House Office Building looked on uncomfortably.

Speaking after Miller and Filner. Rep. Tim Walz (D-Minn.) brought a stop to most of the partisan bickering. “From an ideological perspective, I don’t give a damn who creates the jobs,” said Walz, a retired Army National Guard command sergeant major. “I just want them created.”

Returning vets need jobs, and jobs don't come easily

By Mark Fischenich

The Free Press

MANKATO — Americans have been appreciative of veterans of recent wars — offering bumper stickers of support, care packages to troops in war zones, better benefits through their state and federal governments, and warm welcome-home events for returning soldiers.

But, according to a group of nine veterans advocates in Mankato Thursday, one thing isn’t being offered often enough to many young veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan: A job when they come home.

Walz held town hall events earlier in the summer

By Joe Kimball | MinnPost.com | August 25, 2011

A national report today noting showing that 60 percent of members of Congress around the country are not holding traditional August town hall meetings with constituents this year, included U.S. Rep. Tim Walz from southern Minnesota amongst the no-shows.

But Walz's office said in an email to MinnPost today that the national report lacks context:

Just last week, Rep. Walz hosted a Farm Bill listening session. He’s hosted vets roundtables, one of them is today. Our office elected to do the larger town halls we had planned for the summer earlier than August because Rep. Walz wanted feedback from southern Minnesotans before the debt ceiling vote, so we hosted one in Winona and one in Rochester. Additionally, we’re planning another series of Congress on Your Corner events this Fall.

- We need to keep fighting to honor the sacrifice of those who serve.

Losing Soldiers to Suicide

by Laura Lee

(ABC 6 NEWS) -- In just the last two years, there have been more men and women in uniform who have died on American soil than overseas; soldiers who have died by suicide.

And one local family says their story is a reflection of how there is much more that needs to be done. 

"When a person enlist, that's when they become a hero, because they have pledged to honor their country in whatever way the military sees fit," said Connie Scott, who lost her son to suicide.

Walz talks budget concerns with residents

by Mary Juhl   │   Winona Daily News   │   June 28, 2011

Winona area residents wrestled with how much debt they were prepared to leave their children — and grandchildren — Monday night.

At an exercise and discussion about the ballooning federal deficit, Rep. Tim Walz, D-Minn., partnered with the Concord Coalition, a national nonprofit organization that advocates for fiscal responsibility. At a meeting that was part town-hall discussion, part workshop, more than 50 area residents gathered on Winona State University’s campus and participated in a discussion about how to reduce the national deficit. Their goal was to balance the budget and wipe out the shortfall.

Walz represents Minnesota’s First Congressional District, which includes Winona, Rochester and Mankato.

Walz touts new energy plan

Albert Lea Tribune  │  By Sarah Stultz  │  June 10, 2011  

In the middle of a looming American energy crisis, 1st District Rep. Tim Walz and a group of other congressional leaders have come together to promote a new energy policy that Walz said could contribute to long-term economic stability.

Local energy, labor and business leaders gathered with Walz on Friday at Ulland Bros. in Albert Lea as he unveiled a new plan created under bipartisan support that is aimed at opening up more of the country’s coastline to offshore drilling for oil and natural gas.

Under the bill — the Infrastructure, Jobs and Energy Independence Act — royalties and other revenues received from leasing the shore for offshore energy production — trillions of dollars — would be dedicated to creating jobs, cutting the deficit, investing in clean coal and nuclear technology, cleaning up the environment, increasing renewable and alternative energy sources and rebuilding highways and bridges.

Walz, other lawmakers say: Drill and dedicate

The Free Press  │  By Mark Fischenich  │  June 7, 2011

MANKATO — Congressman Tim Walz and a bipartisan group of other lawmakers are taking another shot at tackling America’s looming energy crisis.

A Mankato Democrat, Walz and allies from Pennsylvania to California are pushing a proposal that would allow more oil drilling off the nation’s coasts and dedicate some of the resulting trillions of dollars in drilling-rights royalties to energy independence programs.

The bipartisan group first offered the idea three years ago — when gas prices were approaching $4 a gallon and leaders of the Republican and Democratic parties were locked into opposing positions on how to deal with the nation’s long dependence on foreign oil.

Walz talks energy, tours AURI

By Ruth Ann Hager   │   Waseca County News  │   May 18, 2011

WASECA — Last week, U.S. Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN) was one of four legislators to introduce H.R. 1861, a bipartisan energy bill called “The Infrastructure Jobs and Energy Independence Act.”

Tuesday morning, Walz came to Waseca to see first hand the kind of research and development that takes place at the Agricultural Utilization and Research Institute (AURI), home of ag innovations.

He said the speech President Barack Obama’s gave on energy Saturday “came out of our bill.” Walz is also pleased that the bipartisan energy working group that produced the legislation has the solid support of both Republicans and Democrats.

Reaction: Rep. Tim Walz

by Kevin Millard  │  May 2, 2011  │ WXOW ABC News 19, La Crosse, WI

Mankato, MN – (NEWS RELEASE)  -Sunday night, Congressman Tim Walz released the following statement regarding the death of Osama Bin Laden:

Rep. Tim Walz Vows A Hard Vote On The Debt Ceiling

by David Welna  -  April 30, 2011  -  NPR

When it comes to the debt ceiling, most lawmakers would rather take a salary cut than vote to raise it. But Democratic Rep. Tim Walz of Minnesota is not one of them. True, he's among the dozen House Democrats the GOP considers most beatable next year. Walz is back in his swing district trying to keep his balance, and NPR's David Welna travels with him.

Editorial: Walz tries working in the middle

Worthington Daily Globe  │  April 26, 2011

Tim Walz, now in his third term in the U.S. House, may be a Democrat, but he says repeated attempts by the Republican Party to cast himself as simply a free-spending ultraliberal are misrepresentative. 

Walz Talks Budget Cuts, Health Care

By Justine Wettschreck    │   Worthington Daily Globe    │   April 20, 2011

WORTHINGTON — According to Congressman Tim Walz, serving in congress is very similar to supervising the lunchroom at the school in Mankato where he spent so many years teaching.

Walz, D-Minn., made a stop at The Meadows in Worthington Wednesday afternoon to discuss the budget, health care and efforts to get Republicans and Democrats working together.

“The political bickering has gotten to the point where it will divide this nation,” Walz stated.

Walz and bipartisan House group seek clean energy independence

By Joe Kimball     │    MinnPost.com    │    March 31, 2011

Minnesota Congressman Tim Walz is one of four leaders of a bipartisan House Energy Working Group that will introduce legislation that "creates a new energy infrastructure and rebuilds our country’s aging roads, bridges, locks and dams."

Bill Would Bar Insider Trading on Capitol Hill

By Danny Yadron   │   The Wall Street Journal     │   March 19, 2011

U.S. lawmakers, their staffers and executive-branch employees would be banned from making investment decisions with nonpublic information under a bill proposed this week by two House Democrats.

The Stock Act, which was first introduced by Rep. Louise Slaughter (D., N.Y.) in 2006, would create insider-trading rules for government workers who often have privileged access to information.  Rep. Tim Walz (D., Minn.) is also behind the latest effort.

Lawmakers introduce bill to prohibit insider trading on Capitol Hill

By Vicki Needham │   March 18, 2011     │   The Hill
Two House Democrats are pushing legislation that would prohibit lawmakers and federal employees from profiting from non-public information they obtain in their jobs official positions while requiring greater oversight. 

Reps. Louise Slaughter (N.Y.), ranking member of the House Rules Committee, and Tim Walz (Minn.) introduced legislation that would hold lawmakers and their staffs legally accountable for making personal investment decisions based the information they use to do their jobs.

"This is a matter of equality under the law,” Walz said. "The same standards we have established for Wall Street should apply to Congress. The potential for abuse is obvious and troubling and there is simply no good reason Congress should get to play by a separate set of rules in the stock market.”

Dear Friends,  

When a madman strikes, the aftermath of unconscionable violence is heartbreaking. The loss of life, the pain and suffering of those injured, and the unbearable emotional pain suffered by surviving family and victims weighs on us all.  

My friend Gabrielle is a proud public servant. Her energy and enthusiasm for representing the people of southern Arizona is infectious. As a classmate, her bright personality and strong work ethic is an inspiration not just to our class, but to the entire Congress.  

Representative Giffords  and I pride ourselves on our accessibility. On Saturday, she demonstrated once again what it means to truly represent the people. As a colleague who has also held events nearly identical to Saturday’s “Congress on Your Corner,” I know from experience that to truly represent the people, you must spend time in the communities you serve, learning from the folks who are willing to share their stories.

When I ask for the votes of southern Minnesotans, it means asking voters to entrust me to convey their hopes, their dreams and their aspirations for what is possible through our self-governing society. Being open and accessible to the people you represent builds that trust and ensures that I really am accurately representing their wishes.

It is through trust in each other that mutual respect takes hold. Since first running for Congress, I have made restoring trust in our government one of my primary goals. For too many years, we’ve allowed trust and mutual respect to erode.  

On Sunday evening Speaker John Boehner addressed the entire House of Representatives by phone. That one unifying phone call meant a lot to me as I try to make sense of the last few days. In that moment, he was not “Republican Speaker John Boehner;” he was “House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner.”  

It is time we recommit ourselves to common ground. It is time we afford one another the due respect required to foster the trust needed to support this form of self-government. Yes, my ideology may vary greatly from Speaker Boehner’s – but our common goal of a safe and prosperous government is one in the same.  

For too many years, politicians and pundits demonized each other and those words led to the deterioration of respect for the offices and institutions within our government. It is time we move forward. Let us all help restore the trust and faith in our elected officials and afford them the respect of the office they hold.  

It is my greatest hope that my friend Gabrielle will recover from this tragedy, but six people lost their lives. Let us dedicate ourselves, in their honor, to a new found respect and trust in each other.

Sincerely,

Tim Walz

FORMER GOVERNOR ARNE CARLSON ENDORSES TIM WALZ FOR CONGRESS

(Rochester, MN) – At a rally today in Rochester, former Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson (R) endorsed Tim Walz for re-election. Joining Walz and Carlson at the rally was former Vice President and fellow Minnesotan, Walter Mondale.

“In this election, Tim Walz is the clear choice,” said Carlson. “I’m continually impressed with Tim’s leadership and his ability to bring people together in southern Minnesota communities. It is clear that people identify with Tim’s experience as a teacher, veteran and football coach and I think that helps them lay aside partisan predispositions and join with Tim to solve problems.”

“Time and again, Tim stood up for southern Minnesota and did the right thing,” said former Vice President Walter Mondale. “Tim’s willingness to cut his office budget, increase transparency in government, and fight for tougher ethics rules for Congress are clear evidence of his integrity and leadership style. Tim is the kind of person who can turn this country around.”

Walz, a twenty-four year veteran of the Army National Guard and public school teacher said he was “humbled to have the backing of these two giants of Minnesota political history.”

Walz went on to say, “Governor Carlson and Vice President Mondale’s legacies loom large over those of us seeking election in Minnesota. I’m honored to receive their endorsement and I count on their counsel and advice now and in the future as I work to create jobs, increase transparency in government, and bring people together around solutions to our most challenging problems.”

“Over the next two years it is absolutely imperative that the President and Congress bring the budget into balance. It must be done on a bipartisan basis with leaders who have the ability to rise above short term pressures and put our long term interests first. This is not about political parties. Tim Walz is one of the most outstanding leaders that Minnesota has and we need his abilities in Washington,” said Carlson.

 -30-

WKBT

ROCHESTER, Minn. (AP) - Republican former Gov. Arne Carlson has endorsed Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Walz for re-election.The Walz campaign says Carlson made the announcement at a rally in Rochester Sunday. It says Democratic former Vice President Walter Mondale joined Carlson and Walz at the rally.According to a statement from the campaign, Carlson praised Walz for his ability to bring people together to solve problems despite their "partisan predispositions."Carlson still considers himself a Republican, though he backed Democrat Barack Obama for president in 2008 and has endorsed Independence Party candidate Tom Horner for governor.The two-term incumbent Walz faces Republican Randy Demmer, IP candidate Steven Wilson and independent Lars Johnson in southern Minnesota's 1st District.

Minnesota Independent

Rep. Tim Walz and his Republican opponent, Randy Demmer, have been trading barbs frequently at debates in the district and in ads. The volley of claims have kept the fact-checkers busy, and the once quiet race for Congress has been heating up in recent weeks with an influx of independent spending by Republican groups targeting Walz.

Congressional candidates square off on Social Security, don't ask, don't tell

Post Bulletin

DEBATE DEMONSTRATES A CLEAR CHOICE IN THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT RACE

Walz fights for middle class families, Demmer peddling the same, old failed economic policies

Mankato, MN – Tonight’s debate between Tim Walz, Representative Demmer and Steve Wilson demonstrated a clear choice for southern Minnesota voters.

“You have a choice in this election whether our country returns to the failed economic policies of the past that Representative Demmer is peddling or, you can decide to embrace a more balanced, common sense approach that puts middle-class Americans interests over millionaires and Wall Street and insurance company special interests,” said Walz.

Tonight, voters saw a clear choice in this debate. Demmer proved that he is a typical, career politician. He was angry, defensive of his own record and only showed up with National Republican talking points. Demmer made it clear he would continue to stand with Wall Street bankers and lobbyists.  He did not offer a single new idea or solution to move our country forward.

Walz made it clear he will fight for working families and put the interests of southern Minnesota first.

“I want to bring people together and solve problems and I don’t care for the political games,” said Walz. “I believe in the promise of America and the wonderful freedoms and the great potential for the next generation America offers. I’ll work for you – the middle class.”

Walz said he believes in the ingenuity and strength of America. Using stories about southern Minnesotans from all walks of life throughout the debate, he spoke with pride about southern Minnesota businesses, veterans, farmers and middle class families as he exuded optimism about Minnesota’s future.  

-30-

By Mark Fischenich The Free Press The Mankato Free PressMon Oct 11, 2010, 11:24 PM CDT

MANKATO — The more than 300 people who skipped the Vikings-Jets game to watch the 1st District Congressional Debate Monday night saw more points scored, witnessed a similar number of bone-crunching hits and also experienced a fumble or two.Democratic Congressman Tim Walz and Republican challenger Randy Demmer battled throughout the 90-minute debate in Minnesota State University’s student union ballroom. Independence Party candidate Steven Wilson took no shots from either Demmer or Walz and was less aggressive in attacking his opponents — offering an idea-focused and more peaceful option for voters.Walz and Demmer clashed most forcefully on the national health care reform, government spending and energy policy, and they disagreed strongly on which man’s philosophy represented the view of most southern Minnesotans.It started with the very first question from moderators Joe Spear, The Free Press editor, and Pete Steiner, KTOE news director, about changes — if any — needed in the health care reform law.Walz said he was proud of the bill, noting that Americans were dying because they weren’t getting needed medical care due to lack of medical insurance. The former West High School teacher also said that America spends twice as much on health care under the current system than any other country — even as its health care outcomes lag in 37th place internationally. And he noted that the Mayo Clinic and former Republican Sen. David Durenberger applauded many aspects of the bill.Demmer questioned whether the Democratic-controlled federal government truly listened to Americans when drafting the plan and did nothing to rein in escalating health care costs. And the state lawmaker from Hayfield said the legislation was paid for by cutting Medicare, put burdensome new tax-filing rules on business, and pretends that payments to doctors will be reduced to exaggerate its cost savings.“This is the clear difference when you get talking points from the Republican National Party rather than listening to the Mayo Clinic,” Walz responded, saying the Medicare cuts were aimed at eliminating wasteful spending in other states. “... Are you for fraud, waste and abuse, Randy? Because that’s what you’re saying.”Walz also ridiculed the idea that Republicans, if put in control of Congress, would repeal the Democratic bill and pass something better.“They didn’t do anything for 75 years,” he said. “Tomorrow, they’re going to?”Demmer responded that Democrats have controlled the federal government the past two years.“They’ve done nothing, done nothing, about health care whatsoever,” he said.“We passed a bill,” Walz said.“Yes we did,” Demmer said, after the moderators cautioned the audience against clapping and laughing. “We did pass a bill. Against the wishes of the American people and against the people that live in this district. It’s about taking control from the people in their health care. It’s about saying ‘Employers, you’re not responsible for your employees’ health care. Congressman Walz, you wouldn’t know that. You’ve never been an employer.”Wilson said he supports the original objective of health care reform: promoting affordable health care for everyone.“We got to the ‘everyone’ part but we seemed to skip over the ‘affordable’ part,” said Wilson, who spent much of his career in business development. “Really, that is the most important part because that does affect everyone.”The Independence Party nominee from Rochester recalled early in his career putting together a budget for a business that wanted to expand, only to have a banker question the idea because the business was losing money — a problem that hadn’t been addressed in the proposal.“Expanding a business that’s inefficient and unprofitable is only going to get you more of the same,” Wilson said. “And I believe it’s the same with the federal government.”The disagreements continued on the growing federal deficit, with Demmer calling it “one of the most ominous things” America has ever faced and calling it “totally irresponsible” that Congress failed to pass a budget resolution this year. Demmer, mentioning the 30 years he worked as a business owner, said private companies can’t borrow without a plan to pay it back and government shouldn’t either.Wilson agreed, saying the amount of government debt owned by foreign nations could put our children at risk of a fiscal “cold war.” But Wilson said both the Republicans and Democrats must share the blame for America’s cumulative debt.Walz also made that point, noting the costly wars, tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and other policies pushed during the presidency of George W. Bush.“The debt didn’t start on Jan. 1, 2009,” Walz said.Walz and Demmer also argued about the level of distortion in their opponents’ television ads and the wisdom of attempting to reduce American dependence on fossil fuels, much of which is imported, through a cap-and-trade system.Wilson repeatedly noted the arguing going on beside him and directed the audience to his website — where he has a list of specific ideas, developed in conversations with 1st District residents, on how to address health care, budget deficits, energy policy and other issues. And he noted his pledge to run only positive ads.“They’re family friendly,” Wilson said of his advertisements. “They won’t start arguments, and you’ll feel good after watching them.”Walz focused on his long list of endorsements from organizations as varied as the major farm groups to the National Rifle Association to veterans associations.Demmer repeatedly suggested that Walz is part of a liberal mindset that believes government spending and regulation can lead to a stronger economy.Both Walz and Demmer had one obvious fumble Monday night.Walz, talking about the health care reform, quoted the Mayo Clinic as calling the legislation “a wonderful first step.” Demmer noted that Walz added a word.“The word ‘wonderful’ is never in there,” he said.And when asked their opinions about Middle East peace talks , Demmer said: “The peace talks between Israel and Palestine have been going on probably for a thousand years. ...”Israel was founded just after World War II, and Wilson pounced on Demmer’s mistake.“Probably not a thousand years,” he said, prompting laughter from the audience.The debate, sponsored by the bipartisan organization Debate Minnesota, was recorded and can be heard today on Minnesota Public Radio’s Midday show, which begins at 11 a.m. at 91.5 FM.

By Larry Madison, Alexandria, Va. The Mankato Free Press Mon Oct 11, 2010, 07:00 PM CDT—    

As legislative director of the Retired Enlisted Association, I want to express my sincere appreciation to Congressman Tim Walz for authoring HR 3787, originally called the Honor America’s Guard and Reserve Retirees Act, which was passed by the House of Representatives shortly before adjourning at the end of September.This bill, if passed by the Senate, would honor members of the Guard and Reserve who spent 20 years or more in the Reserve Components, and are thus military retirees, but because they did not spend the required number of days on active duty, are not recognized as veterans.Although it gives them no new benefits, the Walz bill gives long-overdue recognition to those who have served honorably and proudly in uniform carrying out the missions they were tasked with by their government. This is something that should have been done years ago but no progress was made until Walz made it one of his legislative priorities.As someone who started his 30-plus Guard/Reserve career in Co. B, 47th S & T Battalion of the Minnesota National Guard in Austin, I want to sincerely thank Walz for his hard work in getting this bill passed in the House of Representatives.

 Pat Moline: Ads against Walz were untrue

Winona Daily News

Mankato, MN - Following a KSTP/KAAL televised debate on Sunday, the Tim Walz for US Congress campaign called on State Rep. Randy Demmer to explain why he requested and accepted daily taxpayer funded “Per Diem” payments as a State Legislator for days he seemingly didn’t work including many Sundays, holidays such as Easter Sunday and during a political trip to meet with Washington, DC insiders about his campaign."Rep. Randy Demmer has some serious questions to answer today that he refused to answer during the debate. Why did he request and accept taxpayer money for days on which he seemingly didn’t even show up to work, including Sundays, holidays like Easter Sunday and during a political trip to meet with Washington, DC insiders?" asked Tim Walz for US Congress Communications Director Sara Severs.During the debate, Rep. Demmer refused to respond to point-blank questions about why he accepted taxpayer-funded “Per Diem” payments on days he didn’t work, dismissing the question as “immaterial.” To see video on this clip in the debate, please click here. Official records show that Rep. Demmer requested and received “Per Diem” payments at taxpayer expense, at times while missing critical votes. In 2007, Rep. Demmer requested and accepted these daily expense reimbursements for everyday the legislature was in session from January 2, 2007 through May 21, 2007 – seven days a week including Sundays, Easter Sunday and two days while he was at an NRCC candidate school, meeting with Karl Rove and other Washington, DC insiders regarding his congressional campaign. Rep. Demmer missed votes while in Washington, DC, but still requested and accepted daily expense reimbursement from the taxpayers."In these tough economic times, voters of the First District think how their taxpayer dollars are being spent is rather material and an important question,” said Severs. “Rep. Demmer must immediately come clean with taxpayers and explain how much he actually took. Looking at official records, it could reach into the thousands of dollars. Pocketing taxpayer money when you didn't even show up to work is bad enough- but considering our state's budget problems - how much did he take for himself that could have been spent on roads, veterans, schoolchildren and seniors in nursing homes?”

"This is another example in a long list of Rep. Demmer’s fiscally irresponsible actions,” said Severs. “Rep. Randy Demmer has a serious credibility problem when he talks about the debt. He should first pay back the debt he owes taxpayers," Severs concluded.

Tim Walz has been a strong advocate of tackling the national debt. Upon taking office, Walz successfully advocated for strict budget rules that led to balanced budgets during the Clinton presidency. In addition, Walz voted against wasteful government spending including the Wall Street bailout and the auto bailout. Because of Tim Walz, members of Congress must disclose spending requests online.

Background Information:Immaterial. When Tim Walz asked Representative Demmer if it was untrue that he took taxpayer dollars on days he didn’t work, Representative Demmer said it was “immaterial”. [Clip of KSTP Debate]

Demmer Has Taken Over $154,000 In Reimbursements Including Per Diem, Travel, Mileage And Lodging. According to records, Demmer has taken over $154,000 in reimbursements including per diem, travel, mileage and lodging. Please see attached records for 2007-2009. [Minnesota House Budget and Accounting Office]Demmer Took Per Diem While In DC For Candidate School. In 2007, Demmer took per diem and missed votes while at candidate school in Washington, DC. [Post-Bulletin, 5/16/07, Minnesota House Budget and Accounting Office]Private Accounts Could Cost $2 Trillion To Transition. It was reported that the transition to private accounts could cost $2 trillion. [Business Week, 1/24/05; Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 12/13/04]

Tim Walz Voted Against the Wall Street Bailout. Tim Walz voted against the Wall Street Bailout because he believed they were a bad deal for taxpayers. [HR 3997, Vote #674, 9/29/08, HR 1424, Vote #681, 10/3/08.]-30--30-

Click here to read the complete questionnaire.

Your View: Walz deserves another term

Mary Bliesmer, North Mankato 

The Mankato Free Press 

Tue Oct 05, 2010, 11:26 PM CDT

First District voters soon have a very important choice to make.Randy Demmer is running the standard, fear-driven campaign filled with old ideas and the same George Bush policies that crashed our economy. Rep. Tim Walz is running a positive campaign focused on the issues most affecting our future. He isn’t playing political games or running smear campaigns — he doesn’t need to.Walz deserves another term of office since he has the knowledge and experience necessary to continue making a positive difference as our representative to the U. S. Congress.The choice is clear. A vote for Demmer is a vote to return to the same failed polices of the Bush era. A vote for Walz is a vote for a progressive future.

Walz shows leadership on veterans affairs

Owatonna People's Press

I wish to thank Congressman Tim Walz for introducing important legislation that will benefit our soldiers suffering from traumatic brain injuries while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The bill (HR 6123: Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitative Services Improvement Act of 2010) would require the Veterans Administration to provide long-term care to returning soldiers who have sustained these injuries. It’s the kind of leadership we should expect from our elected officials.Because of his concern for veterans, Walz has been endorsed for Congress by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Political Action Committee. Voters should know that Walz, a Command Sergeant Major, is the highest-ranked enlisted soldier ever to have served in the United States Congress.

As a veteran, the son of a veteran, and a direct descendant of at least three soldiers who served in America’s Revolutionary War, I am pleased to support Tim Walz for re-election. Tim has the values, experience, and wisdom to help lead our country to safer shores and better times.


Otto Nelson

Owatonna

Free Press Staff Writer

Tue Sep 28, 2010, 10:24 PM CDT

NORTH MANKATO — Congressman Tim Walz said Monday he has a solid plan for reinvigorating the economy by targeting tax credits to small business, making sure  entrepreneurs have access to loans, investing in improved roads and stabilizing the nation’s energy market.Walz, who’s facing an electorate in five weeks that polls show is discouraged by the depressed economy, detailed his jobs plan at a local success story. Angie’s Kettle Corn, located in North Mankato’s industrial park, has added 100 workers since January as the former upstart has expanded its reach to 45 states.“These are the folks that make it happen,” said the two-term Democratic congressman.Along with listing his legislative efforts to boost the economy, Walz said he was there to listen to the ideas and concerns of entrepreneurs such as Dan and Angie Bastian, who started their business in their garage nine years ago.“Learn from experts who have been creating jobs even in times of economic downturn,” Walz said.State Rep. Randy Demmer — Walz’s Republican opponent — has criticized the incumbent’s support for health care reform and the uncertainty the landmark legislation has caused for employers. And that legislation was part of the conversation between the Bastians and Walz.Angie Bastian said the company’s human resources manager is having trouble finding detailed information about how the reform, which will mostly take affect in 2014, will impact their business.“We’re looking for information,” she said. “... It would be helpful to have that so we can plan.”Walz concurred, saying federal agencies need to finalize the rules surrounding the reform bill so that businesses of all sizes will know what will be expected of them and what sorts of tax credits they will receive. Ultimately, he said most small businesses will like what they see.“The more people find out what’s in there, the happier they are,” he said.The campaign event came one day after President Obama signed the $30 billion Small Business Jobs and Credit legislation into law. The bill aims to boost access to capital for small businesses looking to expand.Walz also noted the tax cuts passed as part of the economic stimulus bill and his support for extending Bush-era tax cuts for the middle class. In addition, he said efforts by the Democratic Congress to boost renewable energy and expand off-shore oil drilling will stabilize energy prices by making America less dependent on foreign oil.Still needed, he said, is passage of a five-year transportation bill to streamline government road and transit projects and finance improvements to infrastructure that will reduce the cost to businesses of sending their products to market.

Walz is not a ‘typical’ politician

Owatonna People's Press Posted: Thursday, September 23, 2010 10:41 pm

Tim Walz will be re-elected Nov. 2 because he is the only candidate offering new ideas and solutions to the tough problems we face as a country.

Tim Walz listens carefully to voters — holding hundreds of town halls since first being elected.

Tim Walz follows his convictions, not his party. Much to the consternation of many progressives, Tim Walz is endorsed by the NRA. He’s supported ethics investigations of members of his own party and he’s pushed a bipartisan energy bill lauded by the Heritage Foundation.

Now, for the ultimate bipartisan kicker — Tim Walz was complimented by non other than Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly.

Vote for Tim Walz and let’s continue sending a message to Washington — typical politicians just won’t solve the tough problems we face.

Marlys Olson

Owatonna

Walz Endorsed by VFW

By Brian Ojanpa

The Free Press 

MANKATO — In military parlance U.S. Congressman Tim Walz has passed muster with veterans groups — one in particular. The legislator from Mankato has received a re-election endorsement from the national Veterans of Foreign Wars for his ongoing efforts to champion enhanced veterans benefits. “This is not an easy thing to get. You really have to represent the veterans strongly,” said Tom McLaughlin of Mankato, legislative chairman for the VFW’s Second District. McLaughlin said area veterans have been lucky over the years to have strong representation by their legislators. “But I don’t recall anyone in recent times who had the energy and enthusiasm to do the job” that Walz has been doing. Walz has served more than 20 years in the National Guard and is the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to serve in Congress.  His efforts have helped pass a host of legislation, including an act that establishes a “fast track” claims process for disabled vets and the new GI Bill of 2008 that expanded education benefits for veterans. “There is no more humbling honor than to stand with this group of folks,” Walz said Tuesday during an endorsement ceremony at Morson-Ario VFW in Mankato. “This group could care less about the politics of this endorsement; this transcends ideology.” Walz said he views the endorsement not merely as a back pat for past efforts but as a directive for more. “It’s a charge, a mission order to move forward.” Said Vietnam War veteran McLaughlin, “There’s a whole new generation of vets who will continue to need services, as we did.”

KAAL: Republican endorses Walz

James Wilcox

Democratic Congressman Tim Walz is getting support from an unlikely place. Former Republican Senator Dave Durenberger is endorsing Walz. The two made the announcement Monday in Rochester. Durenberger served as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota from 1978 to 1995. He says Walz knows how to put partisan politics aside and get the job done. Walz faces Republican Randy Demmer and Independence Party Candidate Steven Wilson in the November election.

Walz, Horner, Nab Durenberger Endorsements

Congressman Tim Walz gets a Republican endorsement in his race for re-election...Former Republican Sen. David Durenberger is supporting Walz over GOP challenger Randy Demmer in southern Minnesota's 1st district.Walz is running for a third term against Demmer and Independence Party candidate Steven Wilson.Durenberger's endorsement of Walz isn't his only break with the GOP this year.He is also supporting the Independence Party's Tom Horner for governor.

By Heather J. Carlson

Voters in the 1st Congressional District will choose from candidates with starkly different views on what is needed to revitalize the economy and create jobs.Whether it's extending the Bush-era tax cuts for the wealthy or a $50 billion transportation stimulus bill, the candidates' opinions run the gamut. The sharpest differences are clearly between the two front-runners — Republican Randy Demmer and DFL Congressman Tim Walz.Demmer supports reinstating all of the Bush-era tax cuts, including those for households making more than $250,000 a year. He argues it is these wealthier taxpayers who create jobs."I don't support increasing taxes on people right now. I don't think it is the right time. I don't think it's something that is good for the economy," he said.Walz supports extending the Bush-era tax cuts for 98 percent of Americans, just not the wealthiest 2 percent. He argues the country cannot afford to be giving tax breaks for millionaires at a time of record deficits."We understand that it is the middle class that drives the economy, and with 98 percent of people falling in that $250,000 or below, you put it in the hands of those that make the economy go," Walz said.The Mankato Democrat also argues that it was the passage of these tax credits for higher-income earners earlier in this decade that helped balloon the deficit, along with two costly wars and passing an unpaid-for prescription drug bill.Independence Party candidate Steven Wilson favors the extension of all the Bush-era tax cuts, but only for a year or two. Then, Wilson said, he would get rid of the tax cuts estimated to cost $4 trillion over the next 10 years because the nation cannot afford them."We are going to be getting ourselves very close to falling off the financial cliff because of our debts and deficits," Wilson said.Independent candidate Lars Johnson supports extending all of the tax cuts and would like to see additional tax cuts passed."I would much rather give people the chance to prosper and make choices with their money rather than send it to the government and then who knows what happens to it," he said.Infrastructure proposalOpinions remain divided among the candidates on President Obama's proposal to spend $50 million on infrastructure improvements.Demmer opposed the $798 billion stimulus bill passed last year and argues that the nation cannot afford to spend another $50 billion. He questioned how the Democrats can back the additional spending when the stimulus bill was supposed to be spent on infrastructure."This is not the time to be going out and increasing the debt," he said.The Hayfield Republican also argues that this type of federal spending is not the way to boost the economy."Spending ourselves to prosperity with public dollars is not something that has been shown to work. It's not something I've believed in," he said.Walz said he is inclined to support the measure, arguing that these sorts of investments are critical to helping the business community compete. He said he would like to see Congress pass the broader transportation bill but that at least this would be a start."Our infrastructure is killing us. $80 billion a year, $800 billion over 10 years — that's what it costs in idling taxes to businesses," he said.Walz voted against the Wall Street and auto bailouts but backed the stimulus bill. He argues the stimulus bill prevented higher unemployment."If you are saying that the stimulus did not work or was not needed, I am absolutely convinced you were willing to see 15, 16, 17 percent unemployment," he said.Wilson says he tends to support investing in infrastructure, but given the size of the nation's deficit, these investments would need to be paid for before he'd support them."At some point even good ideas are very expensive and even potentially putting our nation at risk and I am open to increasing infrastructure, but I think we've got to really figure out how to do that without just adding more money to our debt and deficit," he said.Wilson said the stimulus bill was far too large."The stimulus bill should have been half of what it was, and I don't think we would have given up a lot in terms of economic growth," Wilson said.Johnson, of Rochester, said he would not support the $50 billion infrastructure proposal because "i don't think we should be using federal dollars to subsidize transportation bills."Tax credits and bank loansFor Demmer, the idea of passing Obama's proposed research and development tax credits while raising taxes on wealthier Americans is the wrong strategy."We are imposing increased taxation on job providers, and then we are turning around and trying to figure out how to give them tax credits," he said.He also does not support a measure passed by the Senate last week that would provide $30 billion in funds for community banks to lend to small business. The House is slated to take up the measure today.Demmer argues that economic uncertainty, not a shortage of money for loans, is the big problem for small businesses. He said the health care reform law and cap and trade bill are just two of the issues that have a "chilling effect" on investment and job growth."We need to have a stable environment. We need to have an administration that understands that we can't go out and be threatening this type of job-killing legislation," he said.Walz said he supports the research and development tax credit because it will encourage economic development, especially in industries like biotechnology, which is huge in southeastern Minnesota. He also backs the small-business loan fund, saying that getting access to loans for small-business owners is still a big problem."I hear from folks every day that they can't get the capital in the small businesses. This should make it easier for them to do it while keeping our banks that make good decisions in good shape," he said.Johnson said he is not a fan of the research and development tax credit because he believes across-the-board tax cuts are what's need to jump start the economy.Wilson, of Rochester, said he backs the idea of research and development tax credits but that the best way to create jobs is to get America off its dependence on foreign oil, except from North American countries, by 2029.He added, "I think the potential is there to create thousands and thousands of jobs, but we have to be intentional, and we have to take a little bit of risk."

By Patrick B. Anderson

Posted: Monday, September 13, 2010 12:00 am | No Comments Posted

Last year, many attendees came to talk about health care, and civil debate was difficult

Modeled after more than a dozen veterans courts across the country, the Hennepin County project will bring together social service agencies, the court and probation system, and the Veterans Administration to quickly move qualifying defendants who are veterans into appropriate services and treatment options.