Tim is one of us and needs us now

"Letter to Editor"

06/24/2008

Dear TRD Editor,


The first Presidential Election in which I was old enough to vote, forty years ago, I wasn't able to because I was on my way to Vietnam on Election Day.

I first became politically involved in mainstream politics during the McGovern campaign in 1972, just after returning from a tour of duty in Vietnam. I had come to Mankato to attend school on the GI Bill – it was a good place to go for cost of tuition, housing and all. I had friends here, many of them also Vietnam Vets. As the war dragged on, I became involved in progressive politics as a way to make positive change.

After the Vietnam War ended, I continued to support progressive issues and, in the late 1970's, became acquainted with a rabble rousing professor named Wellstone. Since then, I have continued working for progressive causes to differing degrees. It was always tough as Southern Minnesota was dominated by conservative Republicans.

In 2004 a guy named Tim Walz contacted me, along with a number of other veterans, to participate in the Veterans for Kerry effort in southern Minnesota. I was impressed by his life story, his energy and intelligence as a volunteer party worker. So, when he told me early in 2005 that he was going to run for Congress in the First District of Minnesota, it took me about two seconds to recognize another defining challenge and opportunity. With his years of service as a teacher, in the National Guard, sure grasp of the issues, his solid roots in his community and his family, I knew he could win!

I dusted off my checkbook and went to work as a volunteer as much as I could, and I even did a little better than my efforts for Wellstone. I haven't been disappointed. I haven't agreed with every vote, but I've never lost faith in Tim's honesty, commitment, energy, intelligence and courage.

Tim’s clear commitment to serving southern Minnesota is worth every dollar I invest. I wish I could do more, but know that supporters – like you – will join me to make sure Tim continues working for us in Washington. This is our chance and this is our time.

I'm just a small-town taxi driver from Mankato, semi-retired, on social security. I don't have a lot of money or as much energy as I used to have, but whatever I can do to keep Tim Walz in Congress I will do because he is willing to bust his butt for us! Please join me and contribute to re-elect Tim Walz.

Tim is one of us and he needs us now.


Sincerely,

Eric Steinmetz
Mankato, MN