Live blog with Steve Sarvi

Hello Minnesota Monitor! I’m looking forward to our discussion tonight. Bring on the questions.

Leading Off Thanks again, Mr. Sarvi, for spending time with us this evening. In my intro, I noted your statement about foreign policy concerning America’s moral standing in the world — how would you, as a freshman in Congress, take positive steps to fix that problem?

thank you for your service Steve,

O.K. I am extrememly greatful for your military service and your dedication to this country. Running for Congress though is a gift to our district. I am thrilled proud that we have such a distinguished candidate in the 2nd. My question is Steve, will you work to bring accountability back to Washington?

Appropriations Rep. Kline has said that he won’t, on principle, seek appropriations for the 2nd District. Do you feel that that is a wise decision? And would you seek federal money for the 2nd?

Thanks,

Foreign policy as a freshman I believe when we send someone to Congress, they should be ready to take action on their very first day — so I’ll be poised to begin by first reaching out to my colleagues and discussing how to move forward. A lot of course depends on what committees I am appointed to. However, foreign policy is a passion of mine, and I want to begin immediately strengthening ties with our allies and offering a different approach to nations from whom we’ve grown apart. We have to have conversations or we can make no progress.

Accountability in Washington First, thank you for your kind comments about my service. It has always been an honor to serve our country and the great state of Minnesota.

We elect our leaders. That means they owe us accountability. I am committed to transparent government, making a habit of listening to my constituents at every opportunity — such as with the listening tour I recently held in the District. Such meetings will be commonplace during my term(s) in Congress.

Listening Tour What was the biggest takeaway you got from that listening tour?  When I caught up with you in ….. Farmington, I think, it sounded like the biggest issue people wanted to talk about was Iraq and how to end the occupation of that country.  Did that extend across the district?

Rep. Kline and appropriations Hi, Diane -

I disagree with Rep. Kline on this issue. While there certainly is room for reform in the “earmarking” process, we simply have too many needs to deny our district or our state federal funding when projects are worthy and warranted. I recently wrote an op-ed for the Star Tribune addressing this issue. Simply put, by opting out of the process, Rep. Kline is not serving us. By the way, he voted against some of the sensible reforms the Democrats proposed early in 2007.

economy, your thoughts The war in Iraq has taken it’s toll on our collective psyche, we have lost our moral standing and now it seems that our economy is in for a recession. Now what?

Which projects? A little technical difficulty here with the REPLY links…. let’s forge ahead. 

Can you identify any particular projects in the 2nd District for which you’d seek federal funding in your first term in office?

Listening Tour issues Iraq certainly was a huge topic of discussion amongst attendees of my listening tour. We also heard a lot about health care, education and transportation. But, there is no doubt that people are still hungry for a change in direction in Iraq and that they hope I can bring a new perspective to this issue in Congress due to my experience on the ground, working with the people of Iraq.

Thank you for your service I have quite a few friends who are in the service — some in Iraq. They are serving our country admirably and are gay and lesbian, yet their partners are denied the same benefits that other members’ spouses of the service are afforded. In fact, if they even mention their families, they could be discharged.

Would you support a repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and support a level playing field for gay and lesbian military personnel?

Appropriations during first term – transportation I certainly can think of some. First, I would like to get on the transportation committee and work with Chairman Oberstar on these issues. But specific to my district, safety improvements to Hwy 52, the Hastings Bridge, the Wakota Bridge, commuter rail in Carver and Dakota Counties. Improvements are also needed at MSP Airport. I could go on and on.

Military Experience Steve,
As I’m sure you know, Rep Kline has consistently used his experience in the military to create appeal and a sense of leadership. How will you differentiate your military experience from Rep Kline’s experience and be able to use it as an asset in this campaign?
Thank you for your service and good luck on your run!

Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell — Equal Rights for military personnel Change is often maddeningly slow and difficult, particularly in the armed services. But as I have said before and will no doubt say many times during the course of this campaign, these issues come down to two key questions of principle: 1) Should all Americans have
equal rights, or are some more deserving than others? 2) Do some people deserve to be treated with dignity and others not? That’s basically how I feel, and I will push leaders in the armed services to go beyond “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Also, my personal experience shows that there’s been a significant change amongst those serving in terms of their attitudes about the policy. People are ready for change.

What role does the federal government have in… …funding research on stem cells?

Should the government be funding this at all?  If so, to what extent?

Thanks–and best of luck!

“Equal Rights for All” the watchwords then? There’s a host of other issues facing the LGBT community today — property rights, visitation, next-of-kin, etc.  It sounds like you support equality on those issues as well.  But what’s the best way to explain that to a district that many observers see as relatively conservative?  Do you take the issue head-on, or turn toward other priorities when talking with 2nd-district voters?

Economy I believe in the power of American ingenuity. One thing that comes to mind immediately is the Energy bill John Kline voted against several weeks ago. It stood to create hundreds of thousands of jobs, all based on changes to the way we “do business” in terms of energy. We can create a stronger economy starting by solving some of the problems we are facing today.

Going further, we can’t continue tax cuts for the extremely wealthy in our country when the bulk of the purchasing power that powers our economic engine lies with the middle class.

Finally, we need to help people achieve the American dream with education and assistance that will help them start small businesses and provide high quality jobs to other Americans.

Manufacturing or Service Jobs? Will you seek to keep manufacturing jobs here instead of allowing them to go overseas, or let the old jobs go in favor of retraining programs and so-called “jobs of the future”?  This is a tough topic for many Americans, especially those affected adversely by trade deals such as NAFTA.

John Kline has never represented my vision of America Kline helped weave fear into the fabric of America. I hold Kline and his political kin responsible for undermining the strength and standing of our great nation. The fact that John Kline allowed the Bush administration to run rampid with fear color coding and no bid contracts (to friends) at the detriment of our national ideals, infrastructure, and common sense is reason enough to replace him in Congress. Will you work to make sense of the Patriot Act? Do you think that we Americans have the patience and cunning to wage an effective “war on terror”?. Do we have the will to “win hearts and minds”? Steve, How do you lead those who are not ready or willing to follow?

Rep. Kline’s service… and mine Thanks, Evan.

I respect Rep. Kline’s service. He spent 26 years in the Marines and served his country honorably.

But Rep. Kline and I differ seriously on many issues. I saw firsthand in Kosovo and Iraq the power of America — in good and bad ways. We used to stand for justice and freedom; now, due to the kinds of policies Rep. Kline has supported, we are seen as oppressors and occupiers. I have a different perspective because my service is more recent, among other things.

I also am troubled by Rep. Kline’s lack of support for our veterans when they come home. As you might have seen, he has received 0% ratings from Disabled American Veterans on at least two occasions.

Stem cell research I am very excited about new developments that get us away from this being such a divisive issue. I think the federal government should be very much behind this type of research as it bears promise for improving the lives of so many people.

My mother works with people with dementia. I’ve told her I hope we can put her out of work someday soon. = )

Hypothetically Speaking…. What’s your response when and if, by some trick of chance, your own service is called into question by so-called “Swiftboaters”?

Yeesh, the Patriot Act I’d imagine we could go on for hours just on that one topic…….but yeah, what’s your high-level take on what needs to happen with the Patriot Act?

sky’s the limit Without any regard for the political realities of being a freshman lawmaker and pecking order imposed by the leadership, if elected, what would be the first bill that you would want to introduce in the House?

Patriot Act, leadership et al Diane, you ask some great questions.

We need to get beyond the politics of fear and division and seek the common ground and common sense approaches to most of the problems we face.

Historically, we look back on things like elements of the Patriot Act with regret. The suspension of habeas corpus during the Civil War. Internment camps during WWII. These types of things not only don’t win hearts and minds, but they also destroy our nation’s moral authority.

Regarding the war on terror, we need to strengthen our military and our allies in Afghanistan, energize the Pakistanis to be effective in wiping out Al Qaeda — but most of all, we need to work to destroy the conditions that create terrorists and show the world that America IS in fact a country that is a force for good in the world. We accomplish this through giving people hope and a reason to live productive lives, rejecting the hate-filled rhetoric of terror leaders.

Finally, I lead by example — and believe that’s only effective way to lead. I’ll work to build consensus, as I did as a mayor, as I did in Kosovo, and as I did among village leaders in Iraq.

My first bill To be honest, I’m not sure. I’m pretty focused on Iraq and foreign policy, transportation, health care and education. Is there something on your mind? As I’ve said, I intend to be a Congressman who spends a lot of time listening to his constituents.

Transportation and Mortgage Crisis seem like poignant issues in CD2…. What role do you see for the federal government in resolving the sub-prime lending crisis?  Is it an issue the market just needs to work out, or does the federal government need to step in and do something about it?

how will you bring it home for Minnesotans Kline is not a very visable Rep. He keeps a low profile. He posts a few letters in local papers. Basically he doesnt step out of the box or for that matter he doesnt step up much either. How will you distinguish Minnesota for the rest of the country and the world? (Don’t Minnesotans pay alot into the federal coffers and see proportionately less come back for infrastructure etc.?)

just interested in your priorities Submitting a first bill is a pretty monumental event in a lawmaker’s career so I’m interested in hearing what your priorities are.

Though, to admit, my question is so open-ended it’s a bit tough to answer in this type of forum.

Jobs of the future We are not going to stop globalization. That is just a fact. However, we CAN focus on providing the education and training to help people acquire high quality careers and we also can — and must — ensure when we do business with other nations, we are not selling out our principles by focusing exclusively on cheap goods at the expense of human dignity and the environment.

NAFTA and CAFTA and other similar trade deals need to create the opportunities within other countries’ borders for people to prosper without having to illegally enter neighboring nations.

There are ties here to so many issues. One is health care. The U.S. suffers a competitive disadvantage with products produced by countries in which health care costs are not borne by corporations. This allows them to price products less expensively.

Talking to 2nd District Voters about tough issues I will never evade a tough question. People have the right to ask me my positions — I am running to represent them.

Yes, equal rights are the watchwords. It really is quite simple to me. We’re talking about human beings, adults who have the right to determine how they live their lives and with whom they share their lives. The federal government should not be interfering in these things, especially when most of these issues have long been state concerns.

Strategically…. What’s your tactic when talking to Democrats?  Republicans?  Independents?  Is there a difference, or are the message and approach consistent across the ideological spectrum?

Swift-boating I’d like to see them try.

Not really. My point is, I would not sit back and let someone denigrate my service. Nor would I tolerate such behavior from anyone affiliated with my campaign, directed at Rep. Kline’s military service.

Sub-prime crisis While there needs to be some personal responsibility, the problem is clearly too widespread to just leave it alone. We can’t have masses of people being tossed out of their homes. Government is not always the total answer to problems like this, but it can get involved in working with lending institutions on payment plans and to ensure that loans are not made in irresponsible ways by lenders just trying to make a buck.

I can tell by your answers that you have the “right stuff” Your passion shines through. How refreshing!  Foreign policy is the key for you and your candidacy. Good. Stick to what you do best. It seems that your life’s journey has placed you on course for the greater good. I have many more questions but I confident that you have the insight and wisdom to understand what you are capable of and what you will need help to accomplish. (Remember to ask.) And that is all I need to know.  I am going to sign off now and I will definately sleep better knowing that you are on your way

MN profile, “Bringing it home” This is an area in which Rep. Kline and I have significant differences. I believe in meeting with constituents regularly and being accessible to everyone in the district regardless of party affiliation. We are Minnesotans first, not Democrats or Republicans. However, as it was pointed out last week, apparently Rep. Kline does send a lot of taxpayer funded mail. I prefer face-to-face whenever possible.

In answer to your question about MN tax dollars going into federal coffers, you are quite right — and I don’t actually think most Minnesotans begrudge helping a neighbor when they’re in need and we can take care of our own. That said, when it comes to high priority projects in our state or in our district, we need to have an advocate in Congress — and that’s what I intend to be.

Talking to Ds, Rs, Is… There is no difference. My message is based on my values, which I believe are closely aligned with my neighbors in the 2nd District. I am not going to tailor my message to reach some “target audience.” That is too much politics as usual. Again, we are Americans and Minnesotans first; we are “party animals” second.

Just what we need As a President of a Veterans organization and a combat vet of Viet Nam, Steve is exactly what is needed in this country to get people back on track of what is and what is not the real story behind Iraq. As a “Ground Pounder” as he was I firmly trust his descriptions about the situation and his dignity and service to this country should never be questioned whether one agrees with him or not. I am proud to support him in his candidacy as he brings a fresh face to politics as usual in Minnesota. Go STEVE!!!!  John Varone VFP President and National Director of VFP.

Open Ended Questions R Us Who are your political heroes? Which leaders — local, federal or global — inspired you to enter public service?

Re: Just what we need That is very kind of you, John. I am honored to have earned your support.

From one grunt to another –

Steve

No toga parties in Congress Generally speaking, what do you think your *weakest* point is?  How are you working to alleviate it?

Comparisons with Walz? Some are already comparing your potential in this election to that of Tim Walz in 2006.  In which ways would you differ from him? 

As far as the campaign? Also, on capitol hill?

Political heroes Great question. So many people have inspired me throughout my life. I’m also a history buff, so I can look way back at heroes throughout our country’s history.

Politically speaking, I am fond of Abe Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt — two great Repbulicans! — as well as Teddy’s cousin Franklin.

Dwight Eisenhower also, from a practical perspective, did something we need to do now: think big about transportation and infrastructure. Of course, he also helped rebuild Europe after WWII.

Both John F. and Robert F. Kennedy I admire for their passion and dedication to ideas that have changed our world

I can’t leave out Paul Wellstone, who stood up for “the little guy” his whole career.

Toga? My weak points: You just had to ask, didn’t you?

I’m human. There are too many to count. But, I would say one of them is I sometimes get too emotionally involved in the work I do. I’m a guy, and I admit it. But I work in public service. The work I do affects people’s lives. So, I’m ok with being wrapped up in it. I guess you could say I’m not really trying to alleviate that.

Campaign-wise, clearly I’m facing the same kinds of issues challengers always face: the power of the incumbent. But, as we’re seeing in the presidential race this year, ideas and vision are winning the day — not money and power.

Farm Bill Steve, do you support the farm bill that is currently awaiting the president’s signature, or would you be in favor of more subsidy reform?

Rep. Walz I have learned a lot from Rep. Walz, and we enjoy his support. I hope the comparisons will be shown to be apt!

Everyone has to do things their own way. No two candidates, members of Congress or districts are alike. So I’m sure there will be differences. But obviously he’s a great role model. He has been generous in sharing ideas with us, and I take his advice very seriously.

“Party Animals”….. Animal House….. I dunno, maybe the connective logic just wasn’t there.

Farm bill I do. It’s not perfect, but it’s an improvement. I particularly like the sections that support sustainable ag, although I don’t feel they go far enough. I also would have preferred caps or limits on subsidy payments to the wealthiest farmers in the nation and I would have diverted those funds to more moderately sized farms. But, our members worked on this bill for a long time and reached the best deal they could. Our nation can not only feed itself but can also feed a good share of the world. We have to continue to support agriculture because it’s one of the backbones of our nation, and rural communities must be able to thrive into the future.

Online Hold ‘em Here’s a random one which isn’t a very big issue but one I’m sure some people would be interested in nonetheless:

Federal ban on gambling over the internet (to casinos and sportsbooks which are offshore or otherwise): for or against and why?

Hello Minnesota Monitor! I'm looking forward to our discussion tonight. Bring on the questions.

Leading Off Thanks again, Mr. Sarvi, for spending time with us this evening. In my intro, I noted your statement about foreign policy concerning America's moral standing in the world — how would you, as a freshman in Congress, take positive steps to fix that problem?

thank you for your service Steve,

O.K. I am extrememly greatful for your military service and your dedication to this country. Running for Congress though is a gift to our district. I am thrilled proud that we have such a distinguished candidate in the 2nd. My question is Steve, will you work to bring accountability back to Washington?

Appropriations Rep. Kline has said that he won't, on principle, seek appropriations for the 2nd District. Do you feel that that is a wise decision? And would you seek federal money for the 2nd?

Thanks,

Foreign policy as a freshman I believe when we send someone to Congress, they should be ready to take action on their very first day — so I'll be poised to begin by first reaching out to my colleagues and discussing how to move forward. A lot of course depends on what committees I am appointed to. However, foreign policy is a passion of mine, and I want to begin immediately strengthening ties with our allies and offering a different approach to nations from whom we've grown apart. We have to have conversations or we can make no progress.

Accountability in Washington First, thank you for your kind comments about my service. It has always been an honor to serve our country and the great state of Minnesota.

We elect our leaders. That means they owe us accountability. I am committed to transparent government, making a habit of listening to my constituents at every opportunity — such as with the listening tour I recently held in the District. Such meetings will be commonplace during my term(s) in Congress.

Listening Tour What was the biggest takeaway you got from that listening tour?  When I caught up with you in ….. Farmington, I think, it sounded like the biggest issue people wanted to talk about was Iraq and how to end the occupation of that country.  Did that extend across the district?

Rep. Kline and appropriations Hi, Diane -

I disagree with Rep. Kline on this issue. While there certainly is room for reform in the “earmarking” process, we simply have too many needs to deny our district or our state federal funding when projects are worthy and warranted. I recently wrote an op-ed for the Star Tribune addressing this issue. Simply put, by opting out of the process, Rep. Kline is not serving us. By the way, he voted against some of the sensible reforms the Democrats proposed early in 2007.

economy, your thoughts The war in Iraq has taken it's toll on our collective psyche, we have lost our moral standing and now it seems that our economy is in for a recession. Now what?

Which projects? A little technical difficulty here with the REPLY links…. let's forge ahead. 

Can you identify any particular projects in the 2nd District for which you'd seek federal funding in your first term in office?

Listening Tour issues Iraq certainly was a huge topic of discussion amongst attendees of my listening tour. We also heard a lot about health care, education and transportation. But, there is no doubt that people are still hungry for a change in direction in Iraq and that they hope I can bring a new perspective to this issue in Congress due to my experience on the ground, working with the people of Iraq.

Thank you for your service I have quite a few friends who are in the service — some in Iraq. They are serving our country admirably and are gay and lesbian, yet their partners are denied the same benefits that other members' spouses of the service are afforded. In fact, if they even mention their families, they could be discharged.

Would you support a repeal of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” and support a level playing field for gay and lesbian military personnel?

Appropriations during first term – transportation I certainly can think of some. First, I would like to get on the transportation committee and work with Chairman Oberstar on these issues. But specific to my district, safety improvements to Hwy 52, the Hastings Bridge, the Wakota Bridge, commuter rail in Carver and Dakota Counties. Improvements are also needed at MSP Airport. I could go on and on.

Military Experience Steve,

As I'm sure you know, Rep Kline has consistently used his experience in the military to create appeal and a sense of leadership. How will you differentiate your military experience from Rep Kline's experience and be able to use it as an asset in this campaign?

Thank you for your service and good luck on your run!

Don't Ask/Don't Tell — Equal Rights for military personnel Change is often maddeningly slow and difficult, particularly in the armed services. But as I have said before and will no doubt say many times during the course of this campaign, these issues come down to two key questions of principle: 1) Should all Americans have

equal rights, or are some more deserving than others? 2) Do some people deserve to be treated with dignity and others not? That's basically how I feel, and I will push leaders in the armed services to go beyond “Don't Ask, Don't Tell.” Also, my personal experience shows that there's been a significant change amongst those serving in terms of their attitudes about the policy. People are ready for change.

What role does the federal government have in… …funding research on stem cells?

Should the government be funding this at all?  If so, to what extent?

Thanks–and best of luck!

“Equal Rights for All” the watchwords then? There's a host of other issues facing the LGBT community today — property rights, visitation, next-of-kin, etc.  It sounds like you support equality on those issues as well.  But what's the best way to explain that to a district that many observers see as relatively conservative?  Do you take the issue head-on, or turn toward other priorities when talking with 2nd-district voters?

Economy I believe in the power of American ingenuity. One thing that comes to mind immediately is the Energy bill John Kline voted against several weeks ago. It stood to create hundreds of thousands of jobs, all based on changes to the way we “do business” in terms of energy. We can create a stronger economy starting by solving some of the problems we are facing today.

Going further, we can't continue tax cuts for the extremely wealthy in our country when the bulk of the purchasing power that powers our economic engine lies with the middle class.

Finally, we need to help people achieve the American dream with education and assistance that will help them start small businesses and provide high quality jobs to other Americans.

Manufacturing or Service Jobs? Will you seek to keep manufacturing jobs here instead of allowing them to go overseas, or let the old jobs go in favor of retraining programs and so-called “jobs of the future”?  This is a tough topic for many Americans, especially those affected adversely by trade deals such as NAFTA.

John Kline has never represented my vision of America Kline helped weave fear into the fabric of America. I hold Kline and his political kin responsible for undermining the strength and standing of our great nation. The fact that John Kline allowed the Bush administration to run rampid with fear color coding and no bid contracts (to friends) at the detriment of our national ideals, infrastructure, and common sense is reason enough to replace him in Congress. Will you work to make sense of the Patriot Act? Do you think that we Americans have the patience and cunning to wage an effective “war on terror”?. Do we have the will to “win hearts and minds”? Steve, How do you lead those who are not ready or willing to follow?

Rep. Kline's service… and mine Thanks, Evan.

I respect Rep. Kline's service. He spent 26 years in the Marines and served his country honorably.

But Rep. Kline and I differ seriously on many issues. I saw firsthand in Kosovo and Iraq the power of America — in good and bad ways. We used to stand for justice and freedom; now, due to the kinds of policies Rep. Kline has supported, we are seen as oppressors and occupiers. I have a different perspective because my service is more recent, among other things.

I also am troubled by Rep. Kline's lack of support for our veterans when they come home. As you might have seen, he has received 0% ratings from Disabled American Veterans on at least two occasions.

Stem cell research I am very excited about new developments that get us away from this being such a divisive issue. I think the federal government should be very much behind this type of research as it bears promise for improving the lives of so many people.

My mother works with people with dementia. I've told her I hope we can put her out of work someday soon. = )

Hypothetically Speaking…. What's your response when and if, by some trick of chance, your own service is called into question by so-called “Swiftboaters”?

Yeesh, the Patriot Act I'd imagine we could go on for hours just on that one topic…….but yeah, what's your high-level take on what needs to happen with the Patriot Act?

sky's the limit Without any regard for the political realities of being a freshman lawmaker and pecking order imposed by the leadership, if elected, what would be the first bill that you would want to introduce in the House?

Patriot Act, leadership et al Diane, you ask some great questions.

We need to get beyond the politics of fear and division and seek the common ground and common sense approaches to most of the problems we face.

Historically, we look back on things like elements of the Patriot Act with regret. The suspension of habeas corpus during the Civil War. Internment camps during WWII. These types of things not only don't win hearts and minds, but they also destroy our nation's moral authority.

Regarding the war on terror, we need to strengthen our military and our allies in Afghanistan, energize the Pakistanis to be effective in wiping out Al Qaeda — but most of all, we need to work to destroy the conditions that create terrorists and show the world that America IS in fact a country that is a force for good in the world. We accomplish this through giving people hope and a reason to live productive lives, rejecting the hate-filled rhetoric of terror leaders.

Finally, I lead by example — and believe that's only effective way to lead. I'll work to build consensus, as I did as a mayor, as I did in Kosovo, and as I did among village leaders in Iraq.

My first bill To be honest, I'm not sure. I'm pretty focused on Iraq and foreign policy, transportation, health care and education. Is there something on your mind? As I've said, I intend to be a Congressman who spends a lot of time listening to his constituents.

Transportation and Mortgage Crisis seem like poignant issues in CD2…. What role do you see for the federal government in resolving the sub-prime lending crisis?  Is it an issue the market just needs to work out, or does the federal government need to step in and do something about it?

how will you bring it home for Minnesotans Kline is not a very visable Rep. He keeps a low profile. He posts a few letters in local papers. Basically he doesnt step out of the box or for that matter he doesnt step up much either. How will you distinguish Minnesota for the rest of the country and the world? (Don't Minnesotans pay alot into the federal coffers and see proportionately less come back for infrastructure etc.?)

just interested in your priorities Submitting a first bill is a pretty monumental event in a lawmaker's career so I'm interested in hearing what your priorities are.

Though, to admit, my question is so open-ended it's a bit tough to answer in this type of forum.

Jobs of the future We are not going to stop globalization. That is just a fact. However, we CAN focus on providing the education and training to help people acquire high quality careers and we also can — and must — ensure when we do business with other nations, we are not selling out our principles by focusing exclusively on cheap goods at the expense of human dignity and the environment.

NAFTA and CAFTA and other similar trade deals need to create the opportunities within other countries' borders for people to prosper without having to illegally enter neighboring nations.

There are ties here to so many issues. One is health care. The U.S. suffers a competitive disadvantage with products produced by countries in which health care costs are not borne by corporations. This allows them to price products less expensively.

Talking to 2nd District Voters about tough issues I will never evade a tough question. People have the right to ask me my positions — I am running to represent them.

Yes, equal rights are the watchwords. It really is quite simple to me. We're talking about human beings, adults who have the right to determine how they live their lives and with whom they share their lives. The federal government should not be interfering in these things, especially when most of these issues have long been state concerns.

Strategically…. What's your tactic when talking to Democrats?  Republicans?  Independents?  Is there a difference, or are the message and approach consistent across the ideological spectrum?

Swift-boating I'd like to see them try.

Not really. My point is, I would not sit back and let someone denigrate my service. Nor would I tolerate such behavior from anyone affiliated with my campaign, directed at Rep. Kline's military service.

Sub-prime crisis While there needs to be some personal responsibility, the problem is clearly too widespread to just leave it alone. We can't have masses of people being tossed out of their homes. Government is not always the total answer to problems like this, but it can get involved in working with lending institutions on payment plans and to ensure that loans are not made in irresponsible ways by lenders just trying to make a buck.

I can tell by your answers that you have the “right stuff” Your passion shines through. How refreshing!  Foreign policy is the key for you and your candidacy. Good. Stick to what you do best. It seems that your life's journey has placed you on course for the greater good. I have many more questions but I confident that you have the insight and wisdom to understand what you are capable of and what you will need help to accomplish. (Remember to ask.) And that is all I need to know.  I am going to sign off now and I will definately sleep better knowing that you are on your way

MN profile, “Bringing it home” This is an area in which Rep. Kline and I have significant differences. I believe in meeting with constituents regularly and being accessible to everyone in the district regardless of party affiliation. We are Minnesotans first, not Democrats or Republicans. However, as it was pointed out last week, apparently Rep. Kline does send a lot of taxpayer funded mail. I prefer face-to-face whenever possible.

In answer to your question about MN tax dollars going into federal coffers, you are quite right — and I don't actually think most Minnesotans begrudge helping a neighbor when they're in need and we can take care of our own. That said, when it comes to high priority projects in our state or in our district, we need to have an advocate in Congress — and that's what I intend to be.

Talking to Ds, Rs, Is… There is no difference. My message is based on my values, which I believe are closely aligned with my neighbors in the 2nd District. I am not going to tailor my message to reach some “target audience.” That is too much politics as usual. Again, we are Americans and Minnesotans first; we are “party animals” second.

Just what we need As a President of a Veterans organization and a combat vet of Viet Nam, Steve is exactly what is needed in this country to get people back on track of what is and what is not the real story behind Iraq. As a “Ground Pounder” as he was I firmly trust his descriptions about the situation and his dignity and service to this country should never be questioned whether one agrees with him or not. I am proud to support him in his candidacy as he brings a fresh face to politics as usual in Minnesota. Go STEVE!!!!  John Varone VFP President and National Director of VFP.

Open Ended Questions R Us Who are your political heroes? Which leaders — local, federal or global — inspired you to enter public service?

Re: Just what we need That is very kind of you, John. I am honored to have earned your support.

From one grunt to another –

Steve

No toga parties in Congress Generally speaking, what do you think your *weakest* point is?  How are you working to alleviate it?

Comparisons with Walz? Some are already comparing your potential in this election to that of Tim Walz in 2006.  In which ways would you differ from him? 

As far as the campaign? Also, on capitol hill?

Political heroes Great question. So many people have inspired me throughout my life. I'm also a history buff, so I can look way back at heroes throughout our country's history.

Politically speaking, I am fond of Abe Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt — two great Repbulicans! — as well as Teddy's cousin Franklin.

Dwight Eisenhower also, from a practical perspective, did something we need to do now: think big about transportation and infrastructure. Of course, he also helped rebuild Europe after WWII.

Both John F. and Robert F. Kennedy I admire for their passion and dedication to ideas that have changed our world

I can't leave out Paul Wellstone, who stood up for “the little guy” his whole career.

Toga? My weak points: You just had to ask, didn't you?

I'm human. There are too many to count. But, I would say one of them is I sometimes get too emotionally involved in the work I do. I'm a guy, and I admit it. But I work in public service. The work I do affects people's lives. So, I'm ok with being wrapped up in it. I guess you could say I'm not really trying to alleviate that.

Campaign-wise, clearly I'm facing the same kinds of issues challengers always face: the power of the incumbent. But, as we're seeing in the presidential race this year, ideas and vision are winning the day — not money and power.

Farm Bill Steve, do you support the farm bill that is currently awaiting the president's signature, or would you be in favor of more subsidy reform?

Rep. Walz I have learned a lot from Rep. Walz, and we enjoy his support. I hope the comparisons will be shown to be apt!

Everyone has to do things their own way. No two candidates, members of Congress or districts are alike. So I'm sure there will be differences. But obviously he's a great role model. He has been generous in sharing ideas with us, and I take his advice very seriously.

“Party Animals”….. Animal House….. I dunno, maybe the connective logic just wasn't there.

Farm bill I do. It's not perfect, but it's an improvement. I particularly like the sections that support sustainable ag, although I don't feel they go far enough. I also would have preferred caps or limits on subsidy payments to the wealthiest farmers in the nation and I would have diverted those funds to more moderately sized farms. But, our members worked on this bill for a long time and reached the best deal they could. Our nation can not only feed itself but can also feed a good share of the world. We have to continue to support agriculture because it's one of the backbones of our nation, and rural communities must be able to thrive into the future.

Online Hold 'em Here's a random one which isn't a very big issue but one I'm sure some people would be interested in nonetheless:

Federal ban on gambling over the internet (to casinos and sportsbooks which are offshore or otherwise): for or against and why?