ROCHESTER - State Rep. Randy Demmer (R-Hayfield) has announced that he will seek election in 2010 as the Representative from Minnesota's First Congressional District, the seat currently held by Tim Walz (D-Mankato).
Demmer is serving his fourth term as State Representative for District 29A. Demmer is a lifetime resident of Hayfield, and spent over 20 years owning and managing a corn and soybean farm, three auto parts stores, and an accounting software and computer consulting business.
This is Demmer's second run for the Republican nomination to oppose Walz. Two years ago he announced his candidacy but the Republican endorsement went to Dr. Brian Davis.
Demmer, who announced his candidacy in Rochester and Mankato, has said he would abide by the endorsement process this year as well.
He joins two other Republicans who have officially announced their candidacy. Former State Rep. Al Quist of St. Peter and Jim Hagedorn, from Blue Earth, are also in the race. Hagedorn is the son of former Second District Congressman Tom Hagedorn.
Demmer said his campaign would focus on the importance of the private sector in America, not reliance on the government.
"The growth in government that is occurring under this Democratic majority is astounding - not just in terms of spending, which is spiraling out of control, but in how the federal government is extending its reach into the lives - and pocketbooks - of every citizen in this district and in our country," said Demmer
"When I travel the district and talk to folks all across Southern Minnesota, I hear concerns - and I agree - that Washington is out of touch with citizens in Minnesota" Demmer said.
"Accountability has to start at home and with the person we send to Washington to speak on our behalf. The voters of the First District want to be represented by someone who understands their principals and values - which Tim Walz is failing to do."
Demmer cited Tim Walz's votes in support of cap and trade legislation, the stimulus package, and the recent health care reform bill as examples of Walz's lack of judgment in his representation of the First District.
"Walz simply isn't representing the interests of the citizens of Minnesota's First District - he's blindly following the lead of Speaker Pelosi and the Democratic majority as they ram home their irresponsible liberal agenda leading us down the path of a more socialistic society".
"From my perspective as a parent, a small business owner, a school board member, a community volunteer, and as an elected public policy maker, I understand that we need long - term solutions, not short term fixes" Demmer said.
"Our representatives in government need to act with an eye toward our children's' futures, not their approval ratings; a view to sound public investment, not out of control spending; and with a commitment to an economic environment where everyone has the chance to build their own American dream - not false hopes based on pre-packaged government bureaucracy".
