Dear Minnesotans: On Jan. 3, Iowans marched through the cold, evening air to their caucus locations in record numbers, independents and some Democrats waited patiently in line to re-register as Republicans to express their opinion about which candidate had the most experience, personal strengths and vision to be the next president of the United States. All politely listened to each candidate’s volunteer stutter and stammer their support.

Then it was time to vote! The results — the closest state caucus or primary election in U.S. history with Gov. Mitt Romney winning by eight votes, later recounted, with Sen. Rick Santorum winning by 34 votes.

Iowans remember voting is not only a privilege but a duty because of the sacrifices of so many of our citizen soldiers and their families. Iowa voters may be few compared to the millions who will cast their votes in the next few months. But we now know every vote counts, and it may be the one that determines the next president of the United States.

Minnesotans, Feb. 7 is your turn to make every vote count!

 

Jim Borchardt

Bettendorf, Iowa