WALZ PROGRESS ON DM&E
11/17/2006
During his first week in Washington, Congressman-elect Tim Walz met with key legislators between orientation sessions. During the week, Walz met with Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar, who is soon to be Chairman of the House Transportation Committee. Walz, the freshman legislator from Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District strongly opposes the proposed $2.3 billion dollar taxpayer-funded loan to DM&E Railroad. Walz made the DM&E loan a central issue in his successful bid to unseat 6-term incumbent Rep. Gil Gutknecht, who supports the loan.
“I had a great discussion with Congressman Oberstar concerning the DM&E loan,” said Walz. “The Congressman is interested in acting as a mediator in this matter and I value his advice and involvement.”
Additionally, Minnesota Senator Norm Coleman issued his strongest statement yet in the matter, saying, “I need to soon see a mitigation plan. If there isn’t a plan, then I’ll do everything in my prerogatives as senator to stop this project, either through the appropriation process or the legislation process.” (AP, 11/16/06)
“I continue to believe that this loan is an unsound investment for the American taxpayers and that mitigation for the city of Rochester is an insufficient remedy for what is wrong with this loan,” said Walz. “However, I welcome the opportunity to work in bipartisan fashion with Senator Coleman and Senator-elect Klobuchar and I believe Senator Coleman is trying to do the right thing for southern Minnesota by interjecting himself further into this matter.”
Walz went on to say, “We’ve seen more movement on this issue in the last few days then we’ve seen in months. I believe the American people sent a message with this election – they’re opposed to the way business has been done in Washington and they want the details of this loan to be out in the light of day for their review. I’m committed to ensuring that happens and that any railroad receiving loan money from the federal government is safe, accountable and financially stable.”