I read an article written by Ken Martin chairman of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party. This article, under the heading “Choices have consequences for 27A,” published in the June 16, 2011, Albert Lea Tribune. In this article I simply must respond to the put-down of our Rep. Rich Murray.

I quote, “under Governor Dayton’s budget plan, only the richest of Representative Murray’s 35,000 constituents — approximately 144 people, or .004 percent — would be asked to pay more in taxes,” end quote. Then Mr. Martin lists the following cuts that Rep. Murray voted for: $1 million cut to local government, $1.6 million cut to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea, $240,000 cut to Albert Lea Schools and $250,000 cut to Riverland Community Colleges. These cuts add up to more than $3 million.

If Mr. Martin is correct that only the 144 richest taxpayers will pay the bill; that would amount to more than $21,000 each, for the 144 taxpayers. Wake up Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayers we are all going to pay higher taxes in one way or the other.

I guess, I would wonder just who the 144 rich guys are? I do not travel with the so-called elite; but I know business people in this community are not rich, so who are they?

Joe Becker

Albert Lea