In January 2009, when I took the oath of office to serve Duluth in the House of Representatives, Minnesota faced a more than $7 billion budget deficit and double-digit unemployment. It is an ongoing crisis that requires us as Duluthians and Minnesotans to set priorities in our spending, and to take a balanced approach to our budget.
My first term of service in the Legislature has been challenging. Yet I hope that as a Legislator you've seen what you came to expect from me as a Duluth City Councilor -- someone who does his homework and works very hard on behalf of our community. And, in this new role I hope you have also found me to be a Legislator who made it a priority to communicate with you. I feel strongly that Duluthians have just as much right to know what's going on, when it's going on, as do people living in the Twin Cities.
Still, there is much more work to do. The economy is beginning to recover, but because of past decisions and aging demographics Minnesota will have significant budget issues for the foreseeable future. The job of finding structural budget balance and adequate funding of our quality of life - strong schools, good jobs, excellent hospitals, and a superior natural environment – is left undone. Yet it is these things that have historically made Minnesota great.
I am motivated to see this job through. And that's why I'm running for election to the Minnesota Senate this fall.
Thank you for your support, and the honor of representing you in Duluth. I am incredibly proud to be known around the Capitol as, "the Duluth guy!”
Roger
