Walz uses Quist’s “stunning” terrorism comment in fundraising email

Under the headline “Stunning Pronouncement,” a new fundraising pitch sent Tuesday by Rep. Tim Walz’s campaign targets statements by one of his Republican opponents, Allen Quist. At a meeting of Wabasha Republicans in December Quist called liberals “radicals” and said the fight against Democrats was bigger than the fight against terrorism.

“A stunning comment by one of my opponents has caught some attention,” wrote Walz, referring to national news outlets’ coverage of Quist’s remarks. “The comment is a clear picture into the mindset of those who are doing all they can to stop the change we are fighting for every day.”

He continued, “As we start this third campaign, it will be based on the issues – not overheated political rhetoric.”

Here’s the full text of the fundraising appeal:

Dear XXX,

A stunning comment by one of my opponents has caught some attention. The comment is a clear picture into the mindset of those who are doing all they can to stop the change we are fighting for every day.

This is what Allen Quist, my opponent said, in his own words:

“It’s because I, like you, have seen that our country is being destroyed. I mean, this is — every generation has had to fight the fight for freedom. This is our fight. And this is our time. This is it. Terrorism, yes — but that’s not the big battle. The big battle is in D.C., with the radicals. They aren’t liberals, they’re radicals. Obama, Pelosi, Walz — they’re not liberals, they’re radicals. They are destroying our country. And people all over are figuring that out.”

XXX, we can do one of two things. Either let this one go by the wayside, or we can stand up and fight back.

We are fighting back. Stand with me today.

Can you help us fund our people-powered grassroots campaign today? A $25, $50 or even $100 contribution today will give our organization the money needed to fight back against this stunning pronouncement.

We will fight back with a campaign focused on the issues that matter most to people.

With your help, we will make this campaign about creating jobs, getting this economy back on track, holding Wall Street accountable, making health care more affordable and accessible, and fighting for energy independence by focusing on home-grown American energy.

As we start this third campaign, it will be based on the issues – not overheated political rhetoric. I appreciate your investment in the kind of organization we have come to be known for since 2005.

Sincerely,

Congressman Tim Walz

P.S. – Don’t let my opponents use their overheated rhetoric to get attention – we can stop them now with your help.