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ST. PETER (AP) -- Nicollet County Republican delegate Glen Annexstad said Friday he was leaning toward Ronald Reagan as president because a large percentage of people in his district wanted the former California governor as president.
Annexstad, who had been elected as an uncommitted delegate, said his feelings had changed "partly because I talked to a lot of people in the 2nd District where I was elected, and, by in large, at least 80 per cent of those I spoke to indicated their preference for Reagan despite who he chose as his vice presidential choice."
Annexstad said he felt that from talking to his neighbors "that's the way I have to vote."
"I think he would be a better campaigner and draw more voters,"he added.
HOWEVER, the St. Peter farmer said he had not promised the Reagan camp his vote although he has told them he leans toward Reagan.
Annexstad said he had been "rather perturbed" by Reagan's choice of Sen. Richard Schweiker as a running mate.
"I felt the person should have been nominated on his own merits," he said.
Annexstad also felt he might go along with a move to dump Schweiker "if the right one came along."
A first ballot victory probably won't be within President Gerald Ford's grasp, Annexstad said. And if no first ballot victory comes, he felt Reagan's chances at winning the nomination were good.
ANNEXSTAD also said Reagan's philosophy agreed with his."I consider myself very conservative and I feel Governor Reagan is closer to that philosophy as I see it," Annexstad said.
Reagan was also taking a more positive stand on issues than Ford, he added.
Annexstad did not criticize the president,"because I intend to support Ford if he is the nominee."
New Ulm Daily Journal
Aug. 15, 1976