District 13 and rural Minnesota face significant challenges in 2006, which will require experience, leadership and representation.
During his campaign, Gimse has said "the need for a change," honesty and less partisanship are critical issues. He told the Tribune the top issues for the Willmar area are transportation and making Highway 12 four lanes to the Twin Cities, education funding, health care costs, local government aid and lower business taxes. While Gimse has criticized Johnson for his opposition to the Marriage Amendment or abortion, he hasn't included these issues among his top five legislative priorities. Gimse doesn't have any legislative experience, and, most importantly, he has not adequately outlined the "need for a change."
Johnson has served 28 years in the Minnesota Legislature, including the past seven terms in the Senate. He has been Majority Leader since 2004. His seniority and his leadership are valuable assets for Senate 13 and west central Minnesota. The senator also has critical experience as a pastor, a National Guard officer and City Council member.
The senator has apologized twice for his tape-recorded comments about Supreme Court justices. This incident is not sufficient to throw out Johnson's seniority, leadership position and experience. Those same advantages help the senator get things done for the district.
Johnson has the depth, perspective and understanding on various issues facing our region and the state. His strengths in those areas far exceed those of his opponent.
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The West Central Tribune endorses Johnson for re-election Senate 13.
