Rice County Republicans

The 2nd Congressional District Republicans met at Northfield Middle School on Sat. March 29th for their District Convention. The attendees, from Zumbrota in the south to Hastings and Savage to the north, numbered 450 which is quite an increase from past District conventions. The convention was called to order at 9AM. Early in the day, Congressman John Kline addressed the delegates and alternates with a message of working together to get out the Republican message of less government intervention in citizen’s lives, cut out the pork barrel spending and other wasteful use of taxpayers dollars, lower taxes, improvement in schools, affordable health care, and funding for transportation. Later in the morning, Congressman Kline received the unanimous support of the delegates who endorsed him as the Republican incumbent candidate for Congressional District 2. Senator Norm Coleman addressed the crowd with a message of staying strong through strength and conservatism, and his record of achievement in over 20 years in the public eye, both in St. Paul and in Washington DC, versus his likely DFL opponent who has no past experience serving the people and no record to stand on. Senator Coleman encouraged all to have hope, and to work toward a better future for all. Later in the morning, Governor Tim Pawlenty spoke to the delegates and candidates, urging them all to be honest, kind, strong, respectful and positive in their encounters with others, using the example set by President Reagan. The Governor stressed that the practice of negativity, and hopelessness by some can only do harm and cause people to lose interest in participating in elections and government. With a positive attitude, concern for others and determination, we can move forward and mold a better future, said the Governor. During the day 3 delegates and 3 alternates were chosen to represent the 2nd District at the Republican National Convention to be held in St. Paul starting August 31st. Resolutions to the Party Platform were discussed and voted on throughout the afternoon. One hundred twenty resolutions were passed on to the State Convention to be considered there. The Party will hold their State Convention in Rochester on May 29, 30 and 31. After ten hours, the convention was adjourned at 7PM.

Submitted by: Kathy Dodds
Deputy Chair, 2nd CD
(507) 334-5390
doddsfarm@yahoo.com