On the Trail to Victory

McCain stops in Lakeville

What an energetic and enthusiastic crowd! Earlier today, it was exciting to welcome John McCain and so many Minnesotans to the 2nd Congressional district – and my hometown of Lakeville. As we saw today, Lakeville is more than just my hometown – it is McCain country! In Nashville earlier this week, we again saw why Senator McCain is the right choice to lead our nation. His principled leadership and long history of service are just right for these challenging times. During these challenging times, America cannot afford on-the-job training for our commander-in-chief. We need a leader who is battle-tested, someone with a record of taking a strong stand for what is right – no matter what. I was pleased to join so many supporters of John McCain and Sarah Palin this afternoon in Lakeville, and it was a privilege and honor to welcome him to my hometown.

 

The last weekend of the Summer

Monday, Sept. 22: On Saturday, I was joined by more than 30 Kline for Congress volunteers to participate in our final parade of the summer – Dozinky Days in New Prague. I was pleased to participate in nearly 40 parades this summer that spanned communities throughout Minnesota’s 2nd district. On Saturday, New Prague celebrated its Czech heritage and did its founders proud – lining Main Street with thousands of children of all ages. Later in the afternoon, I stopped by Apple Valley Fire Station No. 1 to enjoy a bowl of booya at their annual fundraiser. This was a great opportunity to hear what issues are on the minds of numerous south metro residents. On Sunday, I visited with Rice County residents in Faribault, where I enjoyed an omelet breakfast at the American Legion. The fundraiser for the Rice County Steam and Gas Engines Program was a job well done.

 

Rally with Senator McCain and Governor Palin

Friday, Sept. 19: What an electric day for Minnesota! Earlier today, I joined more than 13,000 Minnesotans in Blaine at a rally for Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin. Event organizers were hoping for a crowd of 10,000, but by all accounts, the attendance far surpassed that. I am encouraged and excited about the opportunity to work with a White House led by two leaders who share my commitment to reforming Washington. Sen. McCain’s selection of Gov. Palin is yet another reflection of his intent to disrupt the status quo. Her principled opposition to pork-barrel projects and wasteful spending is right in line with Sen. McCain, and it sends an important message about the direction in which they will take our country. Their ethical leadership is precisely what we need during  these challenging times. Judging from today’s rally, Minnesotans are energized by the McCain-Palin ticket. Let’s continue to build on this momentum as Election Day approaches.

 

Hastings Fire Department Relief Association "Booya"

September 16, 2008 - The Hastings Fire Department Relief Association’s 68th annual “booya” was Sunday, and I was pleased to visit with numerous Dakota County residents attending the festivities at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Hastings. Each year, the Hastings Fire Department Relief Association raises thousands of dollars from their booya, and it is truly a great event for the community. Firefighters and first responders are devoted to keeping our communities safe. It is always a privilege to spend time with true heroes.

 

Welcoming September in style

September 8, 2008 – With the Republican National Convention in the rearview mirror, I spent the weekend visiting with constituents throughout Minnesota’s 2nd district at a handful of summer festivals. On Saturday, I was joined by several volunteers in the Grand parade at Inver Grove Heights Days and Heimatfest parade in Jordan. On Sunday, I participated in the Steamboat Days Parade in Carver and the annual Firemuster in Burnsville, where I was joined by nearly 30 volunteers of all ages.

Participating in nearly 40 parades this year has given me an opportunity to hear first hand what is on the minds of Minnesotans. I enjoyed visiting with everyone who came out this weekend and look forward to finishing the parade season strong.  

 

A week to remember: looking back on a job well done

September 5, 2008 – What a week! Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or “undecided,” we as Minnesotans can all be proud of the success of the 2008 Republican National Convention. By all accounts, the delegates and other participants of the week’s events came away with a favorable impression of the Twin Cities and the men and women who call the area “home.” We can be proud of the impressions left on the tens of thousands of visitors who were our guests.

I would like to extend a special thanks to the law enforcement personnel – our local officers and those from across the nation who offered their services – who did such important work throughout the week. These individuals had a great challenge in maintaining order while upholding the rights of those who chose to voice their political dissent. While most residents and visitors expressed their support or opposition to the week’s events with respect, a great deal of public attention was devoted to the few who used this public form as an opportunity to engage in violent and destructive behavior against public and private property – as well as violence against those who were charged with protecting the city and its residents. The local police force is to be commended for its tough but fair action in the face of unfortunate circumstances.

Congratulations to all Minnesotans on a job well done!

 

An Enjoyable Summer Weekend with Minnesotans

August 24, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

A visit to the "Great Minnesota Get-Together"

August 22, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Fire departments, festivals, friendly folks, and food

August 17, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

It's Fair Season!

August 10, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Welcoming August in style

August 3, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Another Swing around the District

July 27, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Watertown Rails to Trails Festival

July 12, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Lakeville Pan-O-Prog Celebration

July 12, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Happy Independence Day!

July 4, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

A Visit to Elko New Market

July 1, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

The Official Start to Summer

June 24, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

A Southern Swing

June 16, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Parade season is here!

May 31, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

The Tax Cut Rally

April 13, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

2nd Congressional District Republican Convention

March 29, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.

Caucus Night

February 6, 2008 - To read this entry, click here.