El Tinklenberg responded Saturday to statements his opponent, Rep. Michele Bachmann, made Friday afternoon to MSNBC’s Chris Matthews that perhaps the media should investigate members of Congress for “anti-American” sentiment.

Congresswoman Bachmann says everyone who disagrees with her is anti-American. Once again revealing her extreme ideology, Congresswoman Bachmann yesterday called for an “expose” on Senator Obama and those in Congress who disagree with her. Before this, Congresswoman Bachmann insisted that low income families with mortgages brought down Wall Street.

Congresswoman Bachmann continues to divide people rather than work with others to fix our economy.

“As a minister and mayor, I brought people together,” Tinklenberg said. “I believe you build by addition, not division. In Congress, I will work to jump-start the economy on Main Street by creating jobs and rebuilding our infrastructure.”

Tinklenberg also thanked the massive outpouring of support from people across the country who found Bachmann’s words distasteful:

The last few hours have been nothing short of astounding. Since Congresswoman Michele Bachmann appeared on MSNBC’s Hardball earlier tonight, there’s been a deluge of support unlike anything we have seen. We are so grateful to the Daily Kos community and others who’ve sounded the alarm on Bachmann’s extremist, shameful rhetoric and pitched in with whatever they can to help end her tenure in Congress.

I am both hopeful and humbled at the reminder you gave me tonight – that in our country’s darkest times, it is the strength and belief and action of ordinary Americans that ultimately brings about the change we need. From the hardworking folks in Minnesota’s Sixth District to all of you: we are proud to have you on our side.

The Tinklenberg campaign will be releasing fundraising totals Saturday afternoon from the last 24 hours, a total which is expected to top $200,000.