As we cut through the campaign fog of sound bites and negative ads, there is an individual who stands more than ready to represent the First District in the House of Representatives. That man is Dan Feehan, the DFL candidate.

He already has established a very impressive record of public service with two tours of duty in Iraq, earning a Bronze Star, teaching middle school in Gary, Indiana, and serving as an acting Assistant Secretary in the Department of Defense working on veterans’ issues. These experiences have shaped his ability to work in a team with individuals with different backgrounds and viewpoints. Most importantly, he is a good listener and is committed to do whatever is best for the people of southern Minnesota.

This is reinforced by his refusal to take any corporate PAC money for his campaign and his pledge to represent everyone in the First District, whether they voted for him or not.

This commitment to represent everyone is reflected in Dan’s positions on the following important issues:

Quality affordable healthcare — This is a basic human right that must be extended to all persons, even those with preexisting conditions and it should not be compromised with junk insurance.

Economic development — He supports investment in education and our infrastructure and fair trade deals that protect our farmers.

Protect Social Security and Medicare — These programs should not be cut in an attempt to cover the budget deficits created by a flawed tax reform.  Also, Social Security doesn’t add a single dime to the budget deficit because it is self-funded.

Climate change -— The evidence is in. This affects us now and we need to promote wind, solar, biofuels and other types of clean energy.

Dan brings a voice of reason to the current very polarized political discourse.  He will help to break the gridlock which limits bringing solutions to the issues above.  As Dan often says, “We’re all in this together.”  This is the mark of a true leader.

Dave Sylte

Austin, MN