Margaret Anderson Kelliher Stands United With Mark Dayton

Matt Swenson — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:16:21 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Margaret Anderson Kelliher released this statement this morning.

“I just spoke with Mark Dayton and congratulated him on winning the DFL primary. I offered him my full support. He will make an excellent governor.

“I am so grateful for all of the hard work of our volunteers and supporters over the last twelve months. This was a people-powered, grassroots campaign and we should all be proud of what we achieved together.

“In Minnesota we value every person’s voice and count every person’s vote. And that’s what happened in this election.

“Today we will come together as DFLers. We will unite behind Mark Dayton, and beat Tom Emmer in November.”

Margaret Anderson Kelliher

DFL-endorsed Kelliher Wins Final Debate

Matt Swenson — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 02:21:22 +0000

SAINT PAUL, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher was welcomed to the Fitzgerald Theater tonight by Senator Al Franken, Representative Keith Ellison, Mayor Chris Coleman, and a crowd of cheering supporters. Kelliher entered the final debate of the primary season to cheers of “Margaret! Margaret! Margaret!”

Throughout the debate it was clear, Kelliher is the DFL’s best and only choice to beat Tom Emmer in November.

“After 24 years, it is time to elect a DFL Governor again,” Kelliher told supporters. “I am proud to have the DFL endorsement, and I can’t wait to take on Tom Emmer. Now let’s go out and win this election!”

During the debate, Kelliher emphasized that this is the most important gubernatorial election in a generation.

“Minnesotans are all worried about the same things: how to pay the bills, how to pay the mortgage, and how to send our kids to college,” said Kelliher. “That’s why who we choose to be our next Governor matters now, more than ever.

“We need a Governor who will do everything it takes to get Minnesota back to work. We need a Governor who will fight for our students and our seniors. Minnesota needs a fearless Governor who will fight for us. I will be that Governor.”

The enthusiasm and momentum behind Kelliher’s campaign is peaking at exactly the right time. All week, thousands of volunteers have been on the phones and knocking on doors. It’s part of an unprecedented statewide grassroots Get Out The Vote effort. In just one week, Kelliher supporters are making more than 295,000 phone calls and knocking on over 30,000 doors.

Kelliher said the support and hard work of countless volunteers will have made all the difference going into Election Day.

“From the beginning, this has been a people-powered campaign,” said Kelliher. “I am proud to have the support of so many DFLers who, like me, believe our best days are yet to come. Together we will win this election and get Minnesota back to work.”

US Senator Amy Klobuchar's Letter to DFLers

Matt Swenson — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:53:28 +0000

Dear DFLers,

I’m writing to ask you to vote for Margaret Anderson Kelliher in Tuesday’s primary, and to volunteer your time and effort in any way you can over the next few days. I had planned to spend this weekend helping Margaret at events around the state, but on Monday my family received the very sad news that my mom had passed away. While I will be there in spirit, I know there will be thousands of you cheering Margaret on and your support will be critical to her victory.

Throughout this long campaign, Margaret has clearly demonstrated that she has the experience and vision to lead Minnesota out of these difficult times. Her dedication to producing results that benefit our state is exactly what we need in the governor’s mansion for the next four years.

We DFLers are lucky to have had so many strong candidates for governor, but now is the time to come together behind Margaret and enter the general election united and unstoppable. I know I can count on you to join me.

Sincerely,

Amy Klobuchar

Kelliher, Gunyou and Rybak to Fire Up Volunteers Today in Minneapolis

Matt Swenson — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:34:24 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher, DFL-endorsed candidate for Lieutenant Governor John Gunyou, and Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak will fire up campaign volunteers today at the CD5 DFL office in Minneapolis. Volunteers will be making phone calls today as part of a massive GOTV effort. Kelliher volunteers are making 295,000 phone calls and knocking on 30,000 doors this week.

12:30pm

Kelliher, Rybak, and Gunyou at Minneapolis DFL Office

3017 27^th Ave South

Minneapolis, MN

DFL-endorsed Kelliher Kicks Off Massive GOTV Operation

Matt Swenson — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:22:24 +0000

SAINT PAUL, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher gathered with supporters at DFL Headquarters today in Saint Paul. Kelliher and DFL supporters kicked off a massive 5-day Get-Out-The-Vote effort ahead of the August 10^th primary.

“I am proud to stand here as your DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor,” Kelliher said to a cheering crowd of DFLers. “We will win on August 10^th because thousands of Minnesotans poured hours of their time and hard work into this campaign. We will win because of you.”

This week, volunteers are making more than 295,000 phone calls and knocking on 30,000 doors in every corner of the state. It’s part of an aggressive final push leading up to the August 10^th primary.

“Hard-working, dedicated volunteers are talking with their friends and neighbors across Minnesota about why Margaret should be our next Governor,” said Kelliher campaign manager Jaime Tincher.

“We are knocking on tens of thousands of doors and making hundreds of thousands of phone calls this week – bringing Margaret’s message of good jobs and great schools to every Minnesota community. That’s how you win a primary election in Minnesota, and that’s how we plan to win on Tuesday.”

Kelliher’s field organization is second to none in the race for Governor. According to the Star Tribune, “She has generated a ‘ground campaign’ of volunteers reminiscent of those built by past DFL masters of grass-roots politics Paul Wellstone and Hubert Humphrey.”

“Twenty years ago I learned the power of grassroots organizing from Paul Wellstone,” Kelliher said. “Like Paul, I believe in the power of people. And this is a people-powered campaign.

“Over the next five days, we are going to go county-by-county, voter-by-voter, door-by-door. Working together we will win on Tuesday and beat Tom Emmer in November.

Kelliher is encouraging all her supporters to join the Get Out The Vote effort this week. Volunteers can find their nearest GOTV locations online at www.margaretforgovernor.com/GOTV.

Kelliher's Farm Roots Show in Farmfest Debate

Matt Swenson — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:59:13 +0000

REDWOOD COUNTY, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher’s farm roots showed strong today at the Farmfest gubernatorial debate in Redwood County. Kelliher, who grew up on a small dairy farm in Blue Earth County, took on Tom Emmer for his opposition to biofuels and Local Government Aid.

“My opponent Tom Emmer has repeatedly voted against policies that would help farming families and grow rural economies,” said Kelliher. “From flip-flopping on E20 in 2005, to voting against the biodiesel mandate twice in 2008, to opposing Local Government Aid, Tom Emmer has been no friend to rural Minnesota.

“Minnesota needs a Governor who understands our whole state. Agriculture represents 20 percent of Minnesota’s economy. We can’t afford a Governor who doesn’t understand rural economic policies, or the challenges facing our farming families. Minnesota must and can do better than Tom Emmer.”

Kelliher understands the challenges facing Minnesota farmers and the state’s rural economies. A former 4H state president, Kelliher grew up during the farm crisis of the 1980s. As Speaker of the House, Kelliher consistently fought for farming families, small businesses, and rural economies. As Governor, she will invest in Minnesota’s agricultural economy. Kelliher will ensure that property taxes are low, promote energy independence, support locally-grown food and make certain that all Minnesotans have affordable health care.

“I lived through one of the most challenging times for Minnesota farming families. We almost lost our farm to foreclosure,” said Kelliher. “My family got knocked down; that’s when I learned how to stand up and fight.

“I know where I come from, and I will never forget who I’m fighting for. I’m fighting for farming families across this state. I’m fighting for working Minnesotans, students, and senior citizens. I’m fighting for Minnesota, because Minnesota is worth fighting for.”

Kelliher expressed confidence ahead of next Tuesday’s primary election, and said she is eager to face Tom Emmer in the general election.

“DFLers chose me to take on Tom Emmer in November, and I can’t wait to take him on,” said Kelliher. “This week thousands of volunteers across the state are making 295,000 phone calls and knocking on 30,000 doors. Through hard work and grassroots organizing, we are going to win next Tuesday and beat Tom Emmer in November.”

----------------------------

Asked what [Emmer] thinks of Local Government Aid, an important facet of the City of Crookston budget, the state representative and attorney from Delano didn't sugarcoat his opinion. "I don't like it, I don't like it at all," he said. [Crookston Times, 7/27/10]

In 2005, Tom Emmer voted for the E-20 mandate on 4/27/05 (SF4, House J. 3290). Just days later, he flip flopped and voted against it on 5/5/05 (SF 4, House J. 3483). The only substantive change in the conference committee was to give liability protection to motor fuel manufacturers if E-20 causes engine damage.

Emmer voted against the final bill in 2005 that raised the ethanol content in gasoline to 20 percent. [SF 4, Passed 100-32, House J. p. 3483, 5/5/05, Emmer votes NAY, Kelliher votes AYE]

Emmer voted to delay the biodiesel mandate. Emmer voted for an amendment to delay the increased B5 biodiesel mandates by 3 years. [Tschumper amdt. to SF 3683, Not adopted 48-77, House J. p. 10626, 4/24/08, Kelliher votes NAY, Emmer votes AYE]

Emmer voted against the 2008 Agriculture Omnibus bill that included the biodiesel mandate to 20% by 2015.Emmer voted against the Agriculture and Vets Policy Conference Committee. He was one of just 9 legislators to vote against the bill. [SF 3683, Passed 123-9, House J. p. 11546, 5/7/08, Kelliher votes AYE, Emmer votes NAY; he also voted against the bill on House passage, SF 3683, Passed 121-7, House J. 10633, 4/24/08]

Minnesota Daily: Kelliher for DFL Ticket

Matt Swenson — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 06:26:26 +0000

In politics and policy, Margaret Anderson Kelliher is best for the DFL.

PUBLISHED: 08/04/2010

EDITORIAL BOARD

Minnesotans go to the polls Tuesday to choose who will compete for the governorship. DFLers trying to win a governor’s race for the first time since most students were born face a three-way choice between some of the more experienced politicians in the race. Yet they must nominate the candidate with the ideas necessary to pull the state out of its upcoming $6 billion budget deficit. That candidate is Margaret Anderson Kelliher.

Since funding determines the level of services the state can provide — education, health care, safety — any candidate who wants to make changes in these areas must be able to find a way to pay for them. The key question for the upcoming DFL primary is simple: Who among the candidates has a solid plan for the state of Minnesota and the political acumen to implement it?

The Editorial Board interviewed every candidate and we think Kelliher has the smartest approach to filling the $6 billion budget gap. In the new budget cycle, she plans to cover the shortfall through 40 percent revenue increases, 30 percent spending cuts and 30 percent in spending shifts. Mark Dayton’s budget plan relies largely on 80 percent revenue from taxes on those making more than $130,000 a year and 20 percent budget cuts. He did not say where the other 20 percent needed to reach $6 billion would come from, and it’s unrealistic to think these increases would pass in the Legislature.

Dayton is the most liberal of the three, and his political record and lack of experience in the statehouse damage his electability. Whether Time magazine’s unfortunate 2006 label of him as one of the five worst U.S. senators has merit matters less than how he explains to voters that it does not. What he told us was that he was one of the only senators to vote against the Iraq war. Minnesota needs a candidate experienced in the complexities of balancing the state budget — and rallying the support to do so. Dayton hasn’t even taken that test here.

We found Kelliher’s ideas for the University to be veritably fresh. She sees the University as an engine for growth, but she acknowledged that professors here still actually need to teach. Hence, Kelliher, who has children about to attend college, said she would fight for increased support of public instructional costs. “Unless you’re supporting public instructional costs, you’re not going to be able to shave back that tuition,” she told us.

Like the other two candidates, she called for tuition increases here to remain at the rate of inflation. Kelliher also said she wants to put pressure on central offices at the University and state college system to cut administrative costs, a reform needed here at the University.

We do like Matt Entenza, the former DFL House minority leader whose campaign centerpiece is education. His call for abandoning a failed policy, No Child Left Behind, is admirable. But Minnesota would lose hundreds of millions of dollars in federal education money by withdrawing from the law. That would cripple a state already facing billions of dollars in repayments to schools. Kelliher would push Minnesota’s Congressional Delegation for reform of No Child Left Behind.

Entenza, a sharp policy wonk who founded the smart liberal thinktank Minnesota 2020, does not differ much from Kelliher in policy. Yet his campaign conduct does. The decision to select former Fox 9 news anchor Robyne Robinson — who has no political experience — as his lieutenant governor contrasts sharply with Kelliher’s pick of John Gunyou, a former finance commissioner. Entenza is also the only candidate on the DFL side who refused to release a detailed financial disclosure statement. He told us that he followed all of Minnesota’s campaign disclosure requirements, but those requirements are some of the weakest in the nation. We want a governor who values, in action and not rhetoric, transparency, especially about him or herself.

Kelliher did release a detailed financial disclosure statement, but there wasn’t much there to find: She is, by a long shot, the least wealthy candidate on the DFL side. Her humble and hardworking life story is sure to connect with voters — she grew up in a farming family in southern Minnesota — and we hope she has a chance to tell it in the general election.

For a complete look at the information from the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, see this spreadsheet with all the self-reported University of Minnesota donors.

Minnesota Daily Endorses Margaret Anderson Kelliher for Governor

Matt Swenson — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 06:19:57 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher earned another key editorial board endorsement today in the race for Governor. The Minnesota Daily endorsed Kelliher today, saying, “The Editorial Board interviewed every candidate and we think Kelliher has the smartest approach to filling the $6 billion budget gap.”

The endorsement went on to say, “[DFLers] must nominate the candidate with the ideas necessary to pull the state out of its upcoming $6 billion budget deficit. That candidate is Margaret Anderson Kelliher.

The Minnesota Daily is an entirely student produced and managed newspaper serving the University of Minnesota campus and surrounding community.

Kelliher said of today’s announcement, “It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the Minnesota Daily – a source of information and informed opinion that Minnesota students know and trust.

“In these challenging economic times it is more important than ever to keep our commitments to Minnesota students from preschool to college – because a great education is the foundation of a strong economy. As Governor I will stand up for Minnesota students and work with our public institutions of higher learning to train our state’s workforce for the good-paying jobs of tomorrow.”

In addition to the Minnesota Daily, Kelliher has earned the endorsement of the Minneapolis Star Tribune and ECM Publishers. Those endorsements add to a long list of endorsements from a diverse group of organizations supporting Margaret’s candidacy for Governor, including:

The Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party

AFSCME Council 65

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1005

Asian-Indian Democratic Association

Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local Union 1

Communication Workers of America

DFL African American Caucus

DFL Asian Pacific Islander Caucus

DFL Disability Caucus

DFL Feminist Caucus

DFL Latino Caucus

DFL Senior Caucus

DFL Somali Caucus

DFL Veterans Caucus

ECM Publishers, Inc.

Education Minnesota

EMILY’s List

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Minnesota State Council (IBEW)

International Union of Operating Engineers – Local 49

Minnesota Daily

Minneapolis Star Tribune

Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)

Minnesota Laborers

Minnesota NOW

Minnesota Nurses Association

Minnesota Pipe Trades

Minnesota State Building & Construction Trades Council

Minnesota Young DFL

National Association of Letter Carriers – Branch No. 9

North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters

OutFront Minnesota

Planned Parenthood

ReNEW Minnesota

Sheet Metal Workers Local #10

Stonewall DFL Caucus

UNITE HERE!

United Auto Workers

Women’s Campaign Forum

Women’s Press

womenwinning

Massive Ground Operation Earning Votes for Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Matt Swenson — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 02:59:40 +0000

DULUTH, MN – From the North Shore to the Minnesota River Valley, volunteers in every corner of the state were making phone calls and knocking on doors today for DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher. It’s part of a massive ground operation to make 295,000 phone calls and knock on 30,000 doors in just one week.

“Hard-working, dedicated volunteers across Minnesota are making all the difference in this election,” said Kelliher campaign manager Jaime Tincher. “Knocking on thousands of doors and making thousands of phone calls – that’s how you win a primary election in Minnesota.”

Kelliher volunteers reached out to more than 26,130 DFL primary voters today, bringing Margaret’s message of good jobs and great schools to every corner of the state.

Kelliher’s running mate John Gunyou fired up supporters making phone calls in Duluth this afternoon. Volunteers of all ages were on the phones, making the case to vote for Margaret Anderson Kelliher in the August 10^th primary election.

“It’s volunteers like you in offices just like this all across the state who are going to win this election, and get Minnesota back to work,” said Gunyou. “Margaret and I are so grateful for your support. Now let’s go out and win this election!”

Kelliher’s field organization is second to none in the race for Governor. According to the Star Tribune, “She has generated a "ground campaign" of volunteers reminiscent of those built by past DFL masters of grass-roots politics Paul Wellstone and Hubert Humphrey.”

That ground operation is persuading undecided voters one-by-one to vote for Margaret Anderson Kelliher on August 10^th.

Kelliher is encouraging all her supporters to join the Get Out The Vote effort this week. Volunteers can find their nearest GOTV locations online at www.margaretforgovernor.com/GOTV. Kelliher will kick off a final 5-day, statewide, targeted GOTV effort with an event Thursday morning at DFL Headquarters in St. Paul. The event will begin at 10:00am.

A Letter from MYDFL Chair Arron Olson

Matt Swenson — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:25:41 +0000

Hello Everyone,

Many of you are well aware that the Primary this year is August 10th. Next Tuesday we will pick our candidate for Governor, a decision that should not be taken lightly. It is my hope that everyone in the DFL will strongly support the winner next week, and all of us will work exceedingly hard to take back the Governor's Mansion.

For the few of you who have not yet decided, you should take a look at the debate aired Sunday night:http://kstp.com/news/stories/S1678331.shtml?cat=1

Minnesota Young DFL endorses Margaret Anderson Kelliher for many reasons, far too many to properly describe in a message to you all.

In short, we are impressed with her ability to get things done, and garner the cooperation and respect from her peers. She became Speaker of the House in 2007 when she convinced DFL representatives she was the leader they wanted to take on Governor Pawlenty. Their strong support of her candidacy shows that once she becomes Governor, progressive legislation will come to her desk after considerable collaboration.

In addition to the support of her peers, she has a keen understanding of how the Legislature works, and how it will work with a cooperative Governor.

With Margaret as Governor, we can look forward to the passage of the Minnesota Health Plan giving all Minnesotans access to Health Care. We can look forward to the passage of Marriage Equality and eliminating discrimination. We can count on Margaret to reinvest in education and make college affordable. We can also look forward to a comprehensive jobs plan that will put Minnesotans back to work.

Because of her past work Margaret has a long list of endorsements, and has raised more money from more donors than any past candidate for governor. We must work hard to put our state back on the right track, and Margaret will not stop until the work is done.

To learn more about Margaret please visit her website www.margaretforgovernor.com and don't forget to vote next Tuesday!

Sincerely,

Arron Olson
MYDFL Chair
(612) 840-0640
arronolson@gmail.com

Margaret's Endorsements:

The Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party
AFSCME Council 65
Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1005
Asian-Indian Democratic Association
Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local Union 1
Communication Workers of America
DFL African American Caucus
DFL Asian Pacific Islander Caucus
DFL Disability Caucus
DFL Feminist Caucus
DFL Latino Caucus
DFL Senior Caucus
DFL Somali Caucus
DFL Veterans Caucus
ECM Publishers, Inc.
Education Minnesota
EMILY’s List
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Minnesota State Council (IBEW)
International Union of Operating Engineers – Local 49
Minneapolis Star Tribune
Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)
Minnesota Laborers
Minnesota NOW
Minnesota Nurses Association
Minnesota Pipe Trades
Minnesota State Building & Construction Trades Council
Minnesota Young DFL
National Association of Letter Carriers – Branch No. 9
North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters
OutFront Minnesota
Planned Parenthood
ReNEW Minnesota
Sheet Metal Workers Local #10
Stonewall DFL Caucus
UNITE HERE!
United Auto Workers
Women’s Campaign Forum
Women’s Press
womenwinning

A Letter From David Wellstone

Matt Swenson — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 17:19:26 +0000

Dear Friends,

Over the past eight years, a few things have become clear:

We need a governor who will fight for working people.
We need a governor who will work to raise our standard of living, not lower it.
We need a governor who looks forward, not backward.

DFL-endorsed candidate Margaret Anderson Kelliher will be that governor.

I know that Margaret shares the dream of my mom and dad – to make life better for every woman, man and child in our state.

Both Margaret and her husband David knew my parents. David was a student of my father’s at Carleton College and through their friendship, he and Margaret learned valuable lessons about the power of people and organizing.

Margaret has now taken those campaign lessons from my parents, Paul and Sheila Wellstone, to heart. She has built a grassroots ground operation that her opponents cannot compete with.

Standing with one foot on asphalt, the other on tilled earth, Margaret understands the needs of our rural, urban and suburban communities. Watch her “Minnesota Story” here (some people have said the ad reminds them of my dad’s “Fast-Paced Paul”).

The primary election is August 10^th and every day matters. We need your help on the phones and at the doors. Whether you have two hours, two days or the next two weeks, I’m asking you to volunteer.

Minnesota was built on a solid foundation of community. Encourage your family, friends and neighbors to Get Out the Vote! If you are going to be out of town on August 10^th, take the opportunity to vote absentee today.

Voter-by-voter, door-by-door we will win this campaign, and put Minnesota back to work.

Thank you for all your support.

Best,

Dave Wellstone

The Phones Were Buzzing Tonight for Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Matt Swenson — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 04:05:08 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – On a muggy night in Minneapolis, more than 42 volunteers were packed into a crowded campaign office on Lake Street. Every phone in the building was full, calling DFL primary voters on behalf of DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher. Some volunteers were stationed in hallways, calling voters on their cell phones.

Volunteers were on the phones and at the doors all over the state today – from Hopkins to Moorhead to Rochester. And earlier this evening Kelliher fired up volunteers at a crowded DFL field office in Duluth via Skype.

“Working together we are going to win next Tuesday and go on to beat Tom Emmer in November,” Kelliher told supporters on the video call. “Over the next seven days our feet are going to hurt, and we are going to be tired. But, voter-by-voter, door-by-door, we can change the direction of our state and get Minnesota back to work.”

Kelliher volunteers reached out to more than 25,240 DFL primary voters today, bringing Margaret’s message of good jobs and great schools to every corner of the state.

“Volunteers are working hard tonight knocking on doors and making phone calls for Margaret,” said Kelliher campaign manager Jaime Tincher.

“Between now and August 10^th, we plan to fill more than 3,600 shifts, working tens of thousands of volunteer hours – making another 295,000 phone calls and knocking on 30,000 more doors in rural, suburban, and urban neighborhoods across this state. That’s how you win a primary election in Minnesota.”

“It’s humbling to have such overwhelming support from DFLers across Minnesota,” said Kelliher. “Ultimately it’s the people of Minnesota – hard-working DFLers across our state – who will determine the outcome of this election.

“We are going to spend every hour of every day over the next week talking directly to DFL primary voters about what we can do together to make Minnesota a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

DFL-endorsed Kelliher Wins Statewide TV Debate

Matt Swenson — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 01:01:58 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher delivered a convincing victory in tonight’s KSTP/League of Women Voters debate.

“Growing up in rural Minnesota, I know that we are one state and that we need jobs across the state. There are 204,000 Minnesotans out of work this week in Minnesota, probably more. I have the most specific plan for creating jobs in Minnesota,” said Kelliher.

Kelliher made the case to DFL primary voters why her momentum has put her in the best position to beat Tom Emmer in November.

“Minnesotans want a Governor who understands the challenges facing working families – they want a leader who will fight for them; someone who will never quit no matter how hard it gets,” said Kelliher. “DFLers want a Governor who will do everything it takes to get Minnesota back to work. I will be that Governor.”

Kelliher touted her ability to bring DFLers and Minnesotans together to address the unprecedented fiscal and economic challenges facing the State of Minnesota.

“As Speaker of the House I brought together Democrats and Republicans to override Tim Pawlenty’s veto of the 2008 transportation bill,” said Kelliher.

“In my first six weeks as Speaker, we passed the strongest Renewable Energy Standard in the country. And under my leadership we passed the Legacy Amendment for our environment, parks and trails. That’s the kind of Governor DFLers want – someone who can bring people together to get big things done. I will be that Governor.”

The Star Tribune, which gave Kelliher a resounding endorsement today, highlighted Kelliher’s unique ability to solve problems through collaborative, responsible leadership.

According to the Star Tribune, “Kelliher offers a different style of leadership than Minnesota has seen in the Governor's office in many a year. She is a collaborator. She shares the spotlight and allows others to shine. She listens and adapts to what she hears. She's adept at building positive personal relationships both inside and outside the DFL circle.’

Kelliher highlighted the strength of her grassroots campaign organization, and her ability to energize DFLers across the state; a strength the Star Tribune pointed out today. In their words, “[Kelliher] has generated a "ground campaign" of volunteers reminiscent of those built by past DFL masters of grass-roots politics Paul Wellstone and Hubert Humphrey.”

With the endorsements of 39 major organizations, and the support of thousands of volunteers, Kelliher is going into the final week of the primary season with the wind of momentum at her back.

Star Tribune Endorsement for Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Matt Swenson — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 14:55:40 +0000

Star Tribune Editorial: Kelliher merits nod

Leadership style sets the party's endorsee apart.

No matter the crisis through 151 years of statehood, Minnesotans have coped best when they've come together. Can they do so again to get through the worst public-sector financial crisis in modern times?

The answer depends in large part on who replaces GOP Gov. Tim Pawlenty next January. A candidate's capacity to forge consensus among people of various backgrounds and partisan persuasions ought to matter much as voters select major-party nominees for governor in the Aug. 10 primary.

Among the leading candidates in the DFL contest, party endorsee Margaret Anderson Kelliher exhibits more ability to unify than do her chief rivals, Mark Dayton and Matt Entenza, or political newcomer Peter Idusogie. She has our endorsement.

Kelliher offers a different style of leadership than Minnesota has seen in the governor's office in many a year. She is a collaborator. She shares the spotlight and allows others to shine. She listens and adapts to what she hears. She's adept at building positive personal relationships both inside and outside the DFL circle.

As speaker of the Minnesota House since 2007, she has put those ties to good use. A prime example: the 2008 override of Pawlenty's veto of a badly needed $6 billion transportation funding bill. It wouldn't have happened had Kelliher not made the issue her own and worked with the Chamber of Commerce and a handful of Republican legislators to accommodate concerns and win trust.

It's telling that the preponderance of DFL legislators -- and a few former Republican legislators -- support Kelliher's candidacy. They know all three of the leading DFL candidates well; many served with both Kelliher and Entenza, who was House minority leader from 2003 to 2006. They're behind her, many have said, because she's a respectful, sensible consensus-builder. Better than either Dayton or Entenza, she has the potential to rally DFLers.

Kelliher has been slow -- too slow, we'd say -- to detail ideas for erasing a $6 billion budget deficit from the state's 2012-13 books. But the outline she has presented is encouraging.

Unlike former U.S. Sen. Dayton, Kelliher does not rely primarily on an income tax increase for high-end earners to close the gap. She favors a blend of fiscal remedies that include a more modest tax increase for upper-income Minnesotans; tax reform to eliminate sweetheart deals, and spending delays and reductions.

Her unwillingness to go as far as Dayton would to "tax the rich" is significant. Kelliher's position acknowledges the easy mobility of investment capital in the evolving 21st-century economy. It better acknowledges the tax concerns of even progressive elements of the business community. Dayton, by comparison, is promoting a tax plan that he would have trouble selling to DFL legislators, let alone employers, despite his belief that an election victory would be a mandate for huge tax increases.

Kelliher's budget plan is similar to Entenza's in many respects. But she signaled a serious commitment to restoring stability to government finances and reforming government operations when she appointed one of the state's best public-finance minds to be her running mate. John Gunyou is a stellar choice. He served GOP Gov. Arne Carlson as finance commissioner in the early 1990s and is currently Minnetonka's city manager. As lieutenant governor, he could help bring more efficiency and accountability to state spending.

Gunyou's name has never been on a ballot before. But no voter need wonder whether he is up to tackling the fiscal challenge or, should it be necessary, to serving as governor.

The same cannot be said about Entenza's running mate, Robyne Robinson. Unlike Gunyou, the former Fox 9 news anchor is a novice at both government and politics. To his credit, Entenza announced last week a leadership team that includes people of proven public-sector ability. It's unfortunate that he did not use that criterion for the most important appointment a gubernatorial candidate makes -- that of the person who would succeed him if his service were to end prematurely.

The three candidates differ on some policy questions, but often it is a subtle matter of emphasis or timing. For example, while Entenza has practically made the windmill his campaign trademark, all three candidates tout the job-producing potential of investments in renewable-source energy production and conservation. Similarly, all three talk about the need to invest in early childhood education and bring the benefits of health insurance to all Minnesotans, though Kelliher is more interested in a dedicated funding source for early education, and Entenza is more resistant to a single-payer health care system.

The more significant distinction among these three is not in philosophy or platform. It's in their approach to leadership. That can be seen in their campaigns' financing. Dayton and Entenza are both men of means able to lavishly fund their own efforts. They've done comparatively little to enlist the financial and personal support of politically active Minnesotans. Kelliher is not as well-financed. But her donor list runs 350 pages long in her most recent report, and she has generated a "ground campaign" of volunteers reminiscent of those built by past DFL masters of grass-roots politics Paul Wellstone and Hubert Humphrey.

In recent years, Pawlenty has shown Minnesotans how powerful a go-it-alone governor can be. Kelliher offers DFL primary voters a chance to send into the general election a candidate much less inclined to perform a solo act. Her governing watchwords would be "Yes, we can" -- words whose electoral appeal DFL voters should know well.

Star Tribune Endorses Margaret Anderson Kelliher for Governor

Matt Swenson — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 05:12:32 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher earned another key editorial board endorsement today in the race for Governor. The Minneapolis Star Tribune endorsed Kelliher today, saying, “Among the leading candidates in the DFL contest, party endorsee Margaret Anderson Kelliher exhibits more ability to unify than do her chief rivals, Mark Dayton and Matt Entenza, or political newcomer Peter Idusogie. She has our endorsement.”

Kelliher said of today’s announcement, “I am honored to have the endorsement of the Star Tribune and ECM Publishers. Minnesotans and DFLers understand that our state in a jobs crisis. We need honest, stable and capable leadership to get through these challenging times.

The Star Tribune is the largest newspaper in Minnesota with a circulation of more than 295,000 readers.

“The DFL Party, the Star Tribune, ECM Publishers, and thirty-six other organizations representing hard-working Minnesotans in every corner of the state have endorsed my candidacy for Governor. They have all come to the same conclusion: I am in the best position to beat Tom Emmer in November, and most qualified to lead Minnesota through these challenging times.”

Last Wednesday Kelliher earned the endorsement of ECM Publishers. ECM operates 15 weekly papers throughout Minnesota reaching more than 140,000 readers every week.

The Star Tribune and ECM endorsements add to a long list of endorsements from a diverse group of organizations supporting Margaret’s candidacy for Governor, including:

The Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party

AFSCME Council 65

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1005

Asian-Indian Democratic Association

Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local Union 1

Communication Workers of America

DFL African American Caucus

DFL Asian Pacific Islander Caucus

DFL Disability Caucus

DFL Feminist Caucus

DFL Latino Caucus

DFL Senior Caucus

DFL Somali Caucus

DFL Veterans Caucus

ECM Publishers, Inc.

Education Minnesota

EMILY’s List

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Minnesota State Council (IBEW)

International Union of Operating Engineers – Local 49

Minneapolis Star Tribune

Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)

Minnesota Laborers

Minnesota NOW

Minnesota Nurses Association

Minnesota Pipe Trades

Minnesota State Building & Construction Trades Council

Minnesota Young DFL

National Association of Letter Carriers – Branch No. 9

North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters

OutFront Minnesota

Planned Parenthood

ReNEW Minnesota

Sheet Metal Workers Local #10

Stonewall DFL Caucus

UNITE HERE!

United Auto Workers

Women’s Campaign Forum

Women’s Press

womenwinning

Stories From the Road: DFL-endorsed Kelliher Talks Jobs in Austin

Matt Swenson — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 01:48:26 +0000

AUSTIN, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher continued her No Stone Unturned jobs tour today in Austin. State Reps. Jeanne Poppe and Robin Brown joined Kelliher on a tour of the Hormel Institute – a Minnesota-based research facility creating jobs and making life-saving discoveries.

“What is happening here at the Hormel Institute is the kind of cutting-edge, knowledge-based work that will grow Minnesota’s economy and produce good jobs for our state,” said Kelliher. “As Governor, I will do everything it takes to get Minnesota back to work. A key part of my jobs blueprint is making targeted investments in research and development – efforts like what I saw here in Austin today.”

The Hormel Institute has been a world leader in discoveries surrounding cancer, having discovered omega 3 and omega 6, as well as the cancer preventing properties of green tea. Since 2006, the Hormel Institute has added 70 highly skilled research jobs, while tripling their lab space.

“Private investments partnered with federal and state dollars have made these important discoveries possible,” said Kelliher. “That is the formula for job creation and success in Minnesota. And as Governor, I will work with everyone, and consider every idea to get Minnesota back to work – whether it creates 50 jobs or 5,000.”

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development awarded a $512,000 grant to the City of Austin for the development of the Hormel Institute. That initial investment, partnered with federal funding secured by Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Congressman Tim Walz, with continued investments from Mayo Clinic, IBM, and other donors, has made the Hormel Institute successful.

“A small investment can go a long way,” said Kelliher. “That’s the kind of foresight and responsible leadership we have been missing in Minnesota for far too long. When I am Governor, that will change.”

As Speaker, Kelliher worked to revamp the state’s investment in research and development efforts. By developing a bipartisan Jobs Task Force, Kelliher ushered through a major jobs package that included an expansion of the Research and Development Credit, and implemented a new Angel Investor Tax Credit for startup companies.

DEED announced today that after only one month, 37 businesses, investors, and firms have applied for certification under the new Angel Investor Tax Credit.

“These are the kind of forward-thinking policies that can and will create jobs in Minnesota,” said Kelliher. “But Minnesota must and can do better. As Governor, I will leave no stone unturned to get Minnesota back to work. I will never quit – I won’t rest until 204,000 Minnesotans are back to work.”

ECM Publishers: Kelliher Merits Nod in Deep DFL Primary Field

Matt Swenson — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:55:04 +0000

ECM Editorial Board endorsement in DFL gubernatorial primary -- Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s eight years in office have given voters ample time to compare his no-new-taxes version of government with the more progressive model that had prevailed for decades.

November’s gubernatorial election again presents clashing philosophies.

On the Democrat-Farmer-Labor side, Margaret Anderson Kelliher is the best candidate to make her party’s case in a robust contest with Republican endorsee Tom Emmer and Independence Party endorsee Tom Horner.

Anderson Kelliher, a 12-year veteran of the state House of Representatives, was elected speaker in 2007. She faces former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton, also a former state auditor, and former House Minority Leader Matt Entenza in an Aug. 10 primary.

On most issues, the candidates’ positions are similar.

The new governor’s first job will be mending an unprecedented $5.8 billion hole in the state budget. Anderson-Kelliher and Entenza propose similar approaches that include spending cuts, tax hikes and continued delays in aid payments to school districts.

Both propose higher income taxes for households making more than $250,000 a year. They’re right to use the income tax to begin to reverse regressivity that has crept into Minnesota’s state and local tax structure during the Pawlenty years.

Dayton’s approach — raising more revenue than either of his DFL opponents by hiking income taxes on a broader swath of “high-income” earners — may have gut-level appeal for some DFL primary voters. It’s too divisive to carry into a general election and the 2011 legislative session.

Anderson Kelliher’s choice of John Gunyou as her lieutenant governor running mate inspires confidence in her intellectual and political flexibility. Gunyou (a former state finance commissioner under Republican Gov. Arne Carlson. The current Minnetonka city manager is expert on state finance and revenue and a well–known scold on “solutions” that trade long-term stability for expediency.

The Anderson Kelliher/Gunyou team offers the best chance for an evolving model of state finance that will become more fair and less vulnerable to unsettling revenue swings.

Anderson Kelliher was the chief architect of a gasoline-tax increase that will raise more than $6 billion for badly needed road and bridge projects. She held together a coalition, including several Republicans, that delivered the only veto override Pawlenty has suffered in office.

She represents a new generation of DFL leadership, one less prone to inter-caucus “bullying and yelling,” in her words, and more willing to try velvet persuasion.

The daughter of rural Minnesota dairy farmers, Anderson Kelliher is visionary in many respects - such as her call for a government official to oversee services for a growing population of elderly - but some of her ideas need work.

In an interview with the ECM Editorial Board, she gave an incomplete response to a question about Minnesota’s growing public-pension crisis.

In order to win DFL endorsement, she committed to exploring a state universal health-care system. The goal may be laudable, but too little has been said about how it would meld with the federal program and whether the cost is sustainable, especially in these times.

Anderson Kelliher also supports a large, dedicated increase in state school funding combined with cuts in property taxes. To her credit, she says Minnesota must conquer its budget crisis first.

She opposes gambling expansion and state tax dollars being spent on a new Vikings stadium, would sign a same-sex marriage bill and rightly identifies Minnesota’s eroding water quality as its biggest environmental problem.

Anderson Kelliher is facing two wealthy Goliaths who have invested small fortunes in the Aug. 10 primary. Their campaign war chests neither qualify nor disqualify any of the three capable and experienced candidates. Anderson Kelliher should win on merit alone.

ECM Publishers Endorses Margaret Anderson Kelliher for Governor

Matt Swenson — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:35:29 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher earned a key editorial board endorsement today in the race for Governor. ECM Publishers endorsed Kelliher today, saying she is “The best candidate to make her party’s case in a robust contest with Republican endorsee Tom Emmer and Independence Party endorsee Tom Horner.”

Kelliher said of today’s announcement, “I am honored to have this important endorsement from the ECM editorial board, which represents different points of view from rural and suburban communities throughout Minnesota. This endorsement clearly demonstrates that I am the best candidate to connect with voters across Minnesota, to win on August 10^th and beat Tom Emmer in November.”

Started in 1976 by Governor Elmer Andersen, ECM operates 15 weekly papers throughout Minnesota reaching more than 140,000 readers every week.

The ECM endorsement adds to a long list of endorsements from a diverse group of organizations, including:

The Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party

AFSCME Council 65

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1005

Asian-Indian Democratic Association

Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local Union 1

Communication Workers of America

DFL African American Caucus

DFL Asian Pacific Islander Caucus

DFL Disability Caucus

DFL Feminist Caucus

DFL Latino Caucus

DFL Senior Caucus

DFL Somali Caucus

DFL Veterans Caucus

ECM Publishers, Inc.

Education Minnesota

EMILY’s List

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Minnesota State Council (IBEW)

International Union of Operating Engineers – Local 49

Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)

Minnesota Laborers

Minnesota NOW

Minnesota Nurses Association

Minnesota Pipe Trades

Minnesota State Building & Construction Trades Council

Minnesota Young DFL

National Association of Letter Carriers – Branch No. 9

North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters

OutFront Minnesota

Planned Parenthood

ReNEW Minnesota

Sheet Metal Workers Local #10

Stonewall DFL Caucus

UNITE HERE!

United Auto Workers

Women’s Campaign Forum

Women’s Press

womenwinning

DFL-Senior Caucus Endorsed Kelliher Proposes Seniors Agenda in Duluth

Matt Swenson — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:02:23 +0000

DULUTH, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher met with Duluth seniors today, announcing a seniors agenda that includes a capping property taxes at the rate of inflation for Minnesotans over the age of 65.

Kelliher was joined at Duluth Rainbow Senior Center by Vice President Walter Mondale, Secretary of State Joan Growe, chair of the DFL Senior Caucus Don Bye, Duluth Mayor Don Ness, Duluth Councilmember Jeff Anderson, and state Reps. Mary Murphy and Roger Reinert.

“For senior citizens on fixed incomes trying to pay for their groceries and prescription medicine, steep property tax increases have limited their ability to stay in their homes, live independently, or afford the retirement they deserve,” said Kelliher.

“Tim Pawlenty and Tom Emmer have been no friends to Minnesota senior citizens. Governor Pawlenty’s repeated cuts to LGA and his unwillingness to address the disparities in the current school funding formula have sent property taxes skyrocketing more than $3 billion over the last 8 years. Minnesota must and can do better for our seniors”

As Governor, Kelliher will deliver property tax relief for Minnesota seniors. Kelliher’s plan would cap property taxes for Minnesotans over 65. Seniors would be eligible if all of these conditions are met:

If the property tax rate exceeds the rate of inflation
For single persons age 65 and older who make less than $100,000 per year
For couples (with one person 65 years and older) making less than $150,000 per year

“Minnesotans – from the youngest to the oldest – need a Governor who will stand up and fight for them,” said Kelliher. “I will be that Governor.”

Kelliher noted that one of her opponents, former Senator Mark Dayton, has proposed increasing taxes on senior citizens, and raising property taxes.

“The last thing Minnesota seniors need right now is to get hit with another round of tax increases,” said Kelliher. “That’s unfair, unreasonable, and irresponsible.”

Chair of the DFL Senior Caucus Don Bye was on hand at today’s event in Duluth, announcing that group’s endorsement of Kelliher’s campaign for Governor.

“Minnesota seniors need a Governor who we can trust; a Governor who will finally address the challenges we face,” said Bye. “Margaret Anderson Kelliher has always stood up and fought for us – and we know she will do the same as Governor. That’s why we are supporting Margaret for Governor.”

Kelliher’s policy agenda for senior citizens also includes:

Appointing a cabinet-level advisor for Aging, Elderly, Vulnerable, and Disabled Minnesotans
Protecting seniors from cuts to health care and nursing homes
Supporting independence and mobility in every corner of the state
Promoting and expanding programs that connect retirees with mentoring opportunities in our schools, universities, and state government
Protecting the financial security of Minnesota’s aging population

“As Governor, I will do everything it takes to improve the lives of Minnesotans,” said Kelliher. “Ultimately, being Governor is about improving people’s lives, and drawing out the strengths of all Minnesotans to make our state an even better place to live. That is my commitment to the people of this state.”

DFL-endorsed Kelliher Proposes Needed Improvements to Candidate Disclosure Laws

Matt Swenson — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:02:36 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The day before campaign finance reports are due for all gubernatorial candidates, DFL-endorsed Margaret Anderson Kelliher is disclosing her fundraising numbers early and proposing new changes to Minnesota’s woefully inadequate candidate disclosure laws.

“Tomorrow, candidates for Governor are required to disclose how much money we have raised, how much has been spent, and who is contributing to our campaigns,” said Kelliher. “But the truth is that current Minnesota law leaves more questions than answers for Minnesota voters. Tomorrow’s filing doesn’t tell voters enough about who we are and how we make a living.”

The report she will file tomorrow shows that in less than a year, Kelliher – a middle class mom with two kids in public schools – has raised $1.23 million. Those contributions came from 3,523 individual grassroots donors with an average contribution of $218.03. Kelliher contributed $250 to her campaign in 2009 and $250 in 2010.

“With thousands of volunteers making phone calls and knocking on doors every week, we have the strongest grassroots network of any candidate in this race,” said Kelliher. “Because of the hard work and contributions of thousands of people, we have the resources to win in August, and beat Tom Emmer in November.”

In addition to releasing a summary of her campaign finance report, Kelliher disclosed a detailed list of her personal financial assets not required under current law. It’s part of a new policy proposed by Kelliher to directly address gaping loopholes in existing candidate financial disclosure laws, and enhance transparency in how campaigns in Minnesota are funded.

“Minnesotans deserve honest, stable leadership from their next Governor,” said Kelliher. “Voters have a basic right to know who you are, how you earn a living, and how you are financing your campaign for Governor. Current law does not require that. As Governor, I’ll make sure it does.”

According to the Center for Public Integrity (CPI), Minnesota has one of the weakest candidate financial disclosure laws in the country. CPI gave Minnesota an “F” in its comprehensive state-by-state analysis of candidate personal finance disclosure laws. Currently, Minnesota is ranked 40^th in the nation for candidate financial details made available to voters.

“Minnesota must and can do better – and it’s up to the next Governor to make it happen,” said Kelliher. “As Governor, I will enact new candidate disclosure laws that will ensure trust and transparency between Minnesota voters and those running for Governor.

“But I don’t need that new law to take effect to know that disclosing my personal finances is the right thing to do. I call on all candidates in this race – Independence Party candidates, Republican candidates, and DFL candidates – to do the same.”

Kelliher, Mondale & Growe to Hold Major Event with Seniors in Duluth Monday

Matt Swenson — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 19:55:34 +0000

DULUTH, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher will roll out a policy agenda for senior citizens Monday in Duluth. Kelliher will be joined by Vice President Walter Mondale, Secretary of State Joan Growe, Duluth Mayor Don Ness, state Reps. Mary Murphy and Roger Reinert, chair of the DFL Senior Caucus Don Bye, Duluth Councilmember Jeff Anderson, and other campaign supporters.

Kelliher will also announce an important endorsement at the event.

WHO

DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Duluth seniors

Vice President Walter Mondale

Secretary of State Joan Growe

Chair of the DFL Senior Caucus Don Bye

Duluth Mayor Don Ness

State Rep. Mary Murphy

State Rep. Roger Reinert

Duluth Councilmember Jeff Anderson

Campaign supporters

WHAT

Event announcing 1) Kelliher’s policy agenda for seniors, and 2) an important endorsement

WHEN

Monday, July 26^th

11:00am

WHERE

Duluth Rainbow Senior Center

211 N 3^rd Avenue

Duluth, MN

DFL-endorsed Kelliher to Propose Improvements to Candidate Disclosure Laws

Matt Swenson — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 19:23:16 +0000

DFL-endorsed Kelliher to disclose additional finance information and campaign fundraising summary

Sunday, July 25^th

2:00pm

Kelliher Residence

620 Morgan Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN

DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher will hold a news conference on policy reforms that will improve transparency in Minnesota elections. Kelliher will be joined by legislative leaders and campaign supporters. She will disclose additional finance information and campaign fundraising summary.

Let's Be Honest About School Funding

Matt Swenson — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 00:00:23 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher is the only candidate in the race for Governor who has proposed comprehensive education funding reform. Kelliher is committed to the New Minnesota Miracle – a plan to deliver fair, equitable, and stable school funding for every district in the state.

“As a working mom with two kids in public schools, I know the challenges facing Minnesota students,” said Kelliher. “Our state needs a Governor who will stand up and fight for our kids, and give every student a world-class education.”

A plan proposed by Matt Entenza would put at risk $440 million in federal funding for Minnesota schools – making our state the first in the nation to deny badly needed federal funding for education in a time of deficit.

“We must reform No Child Left Behind,” said Kelliher. “But cutting $440 million from K-12 classrooms – causing higher class sizes, more four-day school weeks, and additional teacher layoffs – is the wrong thing to do. What Matt Entenza has proposed is shortsighted and fiscally irresponsible.”

As Governor, Kelliher will stand up for Minnesota students and teachers, partnering with Minnesota's congressional delegation to make necessary, common sense reforms to NCLB.

At the same time, Mark Dayton’s education plan would funnel more money into an outdated, broken school funding formula that picks winners and losers, and relies heavily on property tax increases.

“My opponents have proposed unrealistic education plans that either dramatically cut school funding or throw scarce state resources down the rabbit hole of a broken school funding formula,” said Kelliher. “Neither plan addresses the challenges facing our schools. Minnesota students deserve better.”

Kelliher has laid out a visionary and aggressive vision for comprehensive education funding reform. She supports the New Minnesota Miracle because it will provide fair, stable, and equitable school funding for every school district in the state. Because of the fiscal constraints of the looming budget deficit, Margaret would responsibly phase-in the new formula over six years. Here’s how the plan works:

The New Minnesota Miracle

Simplifies and increases state public school funding
Is fair, balanced and needs based
Reduces property taxes
Lays a foundation for every student to succeed when they graduate from high school

Highlights of the Plan

The proposal begins a phased increase to school funding of $1.7 billion while reducing property taxes
Increases the formula allowance from $5,124 to $7,500, indexed to the implicit price deflator
Uses a scalable blueprint that can be phased in over six years
Equalizes the pupil weighting system for students in kindergarten through high school to 1.0
Enhances compensatory aid and funding for English language learners
Fully funds voluntary all-day kindergarten
Fully funds state special education costs by removing existing caps
Provides flexibility for districts to fund early childhood programs
Accounts for declining enrollment in every geographic region of the state
Includes a levy referendum offset of $500 per pupil in districts with levies; provides $500 per pupil to districts without a levy in place
Includes innovation and accountability measures including a requirement that a district use at least 1.5 percent of its basic revenue for innovation, research-based programs to improve academic performance

Kelliher’s leadership delivered the largest increase in school funding in a generation – $800 million in 2008. Over her four years as Speaker, education funding increased $1.6 billion. And in 2009 and 2010, Margaret fought to protect education funding from deep cuts.

“Good jobs and great schools have to be our top two priorities,” said Kelliher. “As Governor, that’s what I will fight for. And Minnesotans can be confident I will deliver results – because I have done it, time and time again. I will never give up, and I won’t quit on our students and hard-working Minnesota families.”

Stories from the Road: DFL-endorsed Kelliher Talks Ag, Rural Economies at AURI in Crookston

Matt Swenson — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:49:17 +0000

CROOKSTON, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher continued her No Stone Unturned jobs tour in Crookston today. Kelliher met with local elected officials, agriculture leaders, farmers, and researchers at Crookston’s Agriculture Utilization Research Institute (AURI).

Kelliher was joined by state Rep. Dave Olin, state Rep. Bernie Lieder, President of the Minnesota Farmers Union Doug Peterson and AURI Executive Director Teresa Spaeth.

“The work happening in Crookston is an excellent example of value added innovation that directly results in job creation for our state,” said Kelliher. "My comprehensive jobs plan would provide better access to capital and technical assistance for small business owners. AURI works with over 200 businesses at any given time and already provides technical assistance, enabling Minnesotan entrepreneurs to access services like nutrition label testing, so they can market homegrown products."

AURI is a nonprofit focused on research and development for food products and other agricultural commodities. The Institute supports agricultural businesses through research, lab services, and efforts to foster growth in agriculture-based renewable fuels in Minnesota.

As Governor, Kelliher says she will continue the state’s commitment to research and development that will benefit rural economies and farming families.

“Growing up on a farm in rural Minnesota taught me lessons about hard work and hard times that I will never forget,” said Kelliher. “As a farm kid and a former state 4H President, I know how important thriving rural economies are for our state – and I understand on a very personal level the challenges facing farming families in Minnesota.

“I know where I come from, and I will never forget who I’m fighting for – I’m fighting for farming families and rural communities all over this state. As Governor, I will make the needed investments in agricultural research and development to support Minnesota farmers, and build thriving rural communities. No matter how hard it gets, I will never quit fighting for hard-working Minnesotans.”

DFL-endorsed Kelliher to Meet With Latino Community Saturday

Matt Swenson — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:44:14 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher and state will spend time at Mecrado Central and the Midtown Global Market Saturday. Kelliher will be joined by DFL-endorsed candidate for school board, and co-founder of the Latino Communications Network (LCN), Alberto Monserrate.

Kelliher and Monserrato will visit local business owners and members of the Latino community to discuss Kelliher’s commitment to job creation, small business growth, great schools, and safe communities for all Minnesotans. Members of the press are invited to join Kelliher and Monserrate.

WHO

DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher

DFL-endorsed candidate for school bard Alberto Monserrate

Latino business owners

WHAT

Kelliher and Monserrato will visit with Latino business owners

WHEN

Saturday, July 24

SCHEDULE

1:30 – 2:00pm

Midtown Global Market

920 East Lake Street

Minneapolis, MN

2:30 – 3:00pm

Mercado Central

1515 East Lake Street

Minneapolis, MN 55407

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