If I knew nothing about the race for the local House seat, I had plenty of evidence before me at the candidate’s debate last Monday night at Riverland Community College as to whom to support in that race. It was clear that the best choice was returning our Rep. Robin Brown to the House. I will explain.

Rep. Brown is a high school teacher. The day of the debate, she taught her classes all day. Then she had parent-teacher conferences from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. As a teacher, I know how exhausting conferences are. We explain to parents where their child is doing well, and where the student needs to improve. We explain our curriculum and our grading policy. We want each parent to leave better informed and able to talk to their child, to praise and to encourage.

And then, at 7:30 p.m., Rep. Brown came to the debate. In spite of the length of day and work that would have exhausted most people, our Rep. Robin Brown was clear, poised and a study of grace under pressure. She explained her stands on a wide range of views that came from questioners. She demonstrated the clarity of thought, and the even temperament that I value in a state legislator.

When I left the debate, Rep. Brown was shaking hands and talking to constituents. And I knew that the next morning, she would be back at school helping our students learn and reach their goals. She clearly has the skills to effectively represent our district in a steady, strong and committed manner. She deserves to be returned to the House. Please vote for her.

Mary Hinnenkamp

Albert Lea