Guest Column by Tim Walz

Tim Walz, DFL-Mankato, is seeking re-election as the 1st District Congressman.

Thank you for the opportunity to share thoughts with your readers. 

I am committed to working across party lines to find common sense solutions to the issues that face our nation.

My bipartisan record reflects the very best about southern Minnesota, where we come together to build a better future. I am the fourth most bipartisan member of Congress, according to a recent study. I work with my Republican and Democrat colleagues to solve problems on issues ranging from veterans care, military readiness and national security to jobs, housing, farming, education and our economy.

We need people in Congress with experience and proven willingness to work with the other party. We need problem-solvers, not partisans. I focus on working together with Republicans and Democrats to find solutions that help people, including my work on the military and national security, veterans issues, the Farm Bill and much more. 

Strong public schools are the foundation for our democracy and are indispensable to a growing economy. My years of teaching reflect my commitment to helping students achieve their dreams. We must address college affordability and expand opportunities for job training.

Good, middle-class jobs and affordable workforce housing are essential for southern Minnesota’s economy to grow. For job creation, private and public leaders must support small businesses and workers. High-speed internet is essential throughout southern Minnesota. Minnesota’s innovative spirit can create more renewable energy jobs, save money for consumers, and improve our energy independence — which strengthens our national security.

I am determined that our national security — at home and around the globe — is smart and strong and that our military has all the resources it needs. My 24 years of military experience enable me to oppose Army troop reductions, to demand accountability on national security strategy and to work to expand the authority of U.S. commanders in Afghanistan to track down and take out terrorists. We must continue to reform the VA and ensure that all generations of veterans receive the care and support that they deserve.

Millions more Americans now have health care coverage. Pre-existing conditions and preventative care are now covered. Current law must be improved, but full repeal would erase these gains. State and federal officials must address the premium increases for the 5 percent of Minnesotans who purchase insurance on the individual market. We must counter steep increases in some prescription drug prices. We must ensure that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid remain solvent and continue to help millions and millions of Americans. 

Minnesota farmers feed, fuel and clothe the world. Our farmers and producers are proud stewards of their land. I will continue my work with agricultural, environmental and land stewardship stakeholders to reach common-sense solutions. 

Transportation is critically important to southern Minnesota. We need a safe and dependable system for our economy and region to thrive and for farmers and businesses to compete across the nation and around the globe.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts and for the honor of representing Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District.