Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is an opportunity to gather with family and friends and reflect on what is really important in our lives. Over the years I’ve been thankful to live in a state that places such as emphasis on community—where we take care of one another and make a better place for the next generation.
From growing up at a Lutheran church camp on Lake Vermilion where I learned tolerance and compassion to spending a career as a union member where Brotherhood is not spelled with a little “b,” but a big “B,” to serving as a state legislator where I focus on improving the lives of working people, I’ve always worked to support that sense of community Minnesotans treasure.
But, I have to be honest; I am worried about Minnesota’s future. I fear that Minnesota is moving away from a place where people care about one another and look at the bigger picture to a state where people are scared about their family’s security and are focused on the short term. I see this playing out at the State Capitol where, after years of budget cuts everyone is scrambling to protect their piece of the budget pie which, I have to warn you, is only getting smaller.
I see this on the campaign trail where people ask me questions like, “What’s more important to you—education or long-term care?”
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my life is that nobody wins when you tear others down. The state is facing very serious financial challenges, and we aren’t going to get through this as the Minnesota we know and value unless we come together.
My wife, Laura, and I thank you for all you do to foster a sense of community in your lives. We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Sen. Tom Bakk
Candidate
DFL endorsement for governor
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