To the editor:

In this day and age, it is difficult to come by political candidates who strive to pursue solid policies that actually aim to help our communities.

In a district like Minnesota’s First Congressional District, Jim Hagedorn is right on the issues. In fact, Jim supports having work requirements for able-bodied welfare recipients. For those who are still unemployed, it is important to have a system of welfare that helps those who truly need it. Unfortunately, the welfare system currently isn’t geared towards getting people off of the dependent list. All too often, those who continually rely on welfare for their primary income become complacent, and remain at, or below, the poverty line. Jim’s support of work-for-welfare will activate an incentive for people to move up in their lives, providing opportunity for those who wish to get ahead. In other words, having a welfare and entitlement system that provides a “hand-up.” as opposed to a “hand-out.”

Additionally, the deregulation of commerce from the Trump administration has been important for our small businesses and agricultural foundation — which make up most of our southern Minnesota economy. This movement is exemplified in the successful tax cuts that were implemented last year. These cuts led to a booming economy and the lowest unemployment we have seen in years.

Solid policies that provide the American dream through a hard-working and honest sense of resolve and dignity. That is southern Minnesota. That is Jim Hagedorn.

Beth Griffis

Springfield