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Senate District 41 Delegates Overwhelmingly Endorse Three Incumbents
On Saturday, April 22nd, delegates and alternates to the Senate District 41 Republican Convention voted enthusiastically to endorse State Senator Geoff Michel and State Representatives Ron Erhardt and Neil Peterson for the upcoming November election.
  The delegates and alternates, who filled the Normandale Community College Auditorium, heartily supported endorsement of the three candidates, all who are up for re-election this year. House District 41A rallied behind Erhardt, who has served in the state House since first being elected in 1990. Similarly, House District 41B demonstrated unanimous support for Neil Peterson, who has served in public life for 24 years and is currently completing his 1st term in office at the capitol. The crowd also strongly endorsed Geoff Michel for his second run as Senator for the district.
Support for the three incumbents extended beyond the vote. Many supporters joined each of the candidates on stage to speak in their favor, citing stories and examples of the leadership, dedication and integrity demonstrated by each. Said one delegate, “Let’s show the democrats there’s no point in wasting their time this fall.” Delegates also spoke in detail of their exemplary leadership in all things important to our district.
In their follow-up speeches, each candidate thanked the assembled crowd for their support and spoke to the unprecedented challenge that faces the district this fall from forces both inside and outside the area. Democrats have set Senate District 41 as a target for 2006. Rep. Erhardt pointed out that wealthy opponents for both Michel and himself are likely to spend unheard of amounts to unseat them. All will need help, both financial and time, from all in the district.
Intermixed with the usual business of the convention, like selecting delegates for upcoming conventions and debating resolutions, numerous special guests made appearances before the gathering. Congressman Jim R amstad, who this year is celebrating his 60th birthday, thanked the crowd for their activism and encouraged them to stay involved, if we are to win in 2006. Also speaking were three candidates, or their representatives, for the U.S. Senate seat open this fall, Rep. Jeff Johnson, our next attorney general, and Rich Stanek, candidate for Hennepin County Sheriff. Ron Carey, head of the Republican Party in Minnesota, rounded out the list of guest speakers ,praising the Senate District as one of the top grass roots organizations in the state.
The Senate District’s strong relationship with College Republicans, especially those at the University of St. Thomas, was celebrated by speeches from Tyler Sunderman, Chair of the MN College Republicans, and Emily Regan and Tim Rudolph, from St. Thomas. All were presented plaques.
Other highlights at the convention included presentation of this year’s Crystal Eagle Award for outstanding service to the Senate District to Alice Seagren, now State Commissioner of Education. Volunteer of the Year awards were given to Stephen and Loraine Plasman, Tom Couillard, Karen Hazel, Mike Bolen, Patsy Murphy, and Floy Sims. Fundraising awards were also presented to Steve Neuger, Lew Coffey, Ric Davies, John Swon IV, Betsy Mertz, and Keith Downey.
Fundraising Winners left to right: Keith Downey
John Swon IV, Betsy Mertz, Ric Davies, Lew Coffey,
and Steve Neuger
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