Endorsements

Below is a list of organizations that have endorsed me in this race. These groups typically look at the candidate's voting record on issues of importance to their members, ask the candidate to fill out a questionnaire, and, sometimes, interview them in person. Endorsements can (but don't always) come with a contribution to the candidate's campaign. I answer the questions submitted to me honestly and openly – stating exactly what my views are, even when I know they run counter to the position of the organization, then I leave it to the organization to choose to endorse or not.

I represent you – not interest groups or political parties. I will always vote my conscience and for what is in the best interests of my constituents and state.

I don't feel beholden to any organized group because they have endorsed me or contributed to my campaign. Minnesota has very strict campaign finance and contribution rules. No organization or lobbyist can contribute any more to a campaign than the maximum allowed an individual ($500). In addition, the total amount of election-year contributions that can be received from organizations or lobbyists is strictly capped at $6,300, about one fifth of what I, as a candidate who has agreed to cap my overall campaign expenditures, is allowed to spend during the election year.

I have been endorsed by the following organizations thus far this year (as of February 7, 2012) during the 2010 election cycle:

Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Leadership Fund National Federation of Independent Business — Minnesota Recipient of National Federation of Independent Business — Minnesota's Guardian of Small Business award, 2008, 2010 Clean Water Action Conservation Minnesota Voter Fund Minnesota Nurses Association Minnesota Medical Association PAC National Association of Social Workers — PACE

St. Paul Pioneer Press Minneapolis Star Tribune AFSCME MAPE SEIU United Transportation Union Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association National Rifle Associaton - Political Victory Fund St Paul Building and Construction Trades Democratic Farmer Labor Party