Meffert, Hackett announce endorsements in race against Paulsen

Two DFLers vying to run against Republican Rep. Erik Paulsen announced endorsement this week. Dr. Maureen Hackett garnered the support of the LGBT group Stonewall DFL while PTA president Jim Meffert announced a number of endorsements from elected officials in the district.

“We’re proud to support Dr. Hackett,” said Del Jenkins, the Stonewall DFL chairman in a statement Monday. “She has left no doubt that she’ll be an effective and tireless advocate for all Minnesotans and that she won’t back down from taking on the tough issues.”

On the endorsement, Hackett said. “From ending Don’t Ask Don’t Tell to continuing the fight for civil rights, there’s a lot of work ahead of us. America has always been about expanding opportunity for all and that’s an effort I’m proud to continue.”

Hackett, herself a veteran, won the endorsement of the DFL Veterans Caucus last month.

On Tuesday, Meffert announced a long list of endorsements by elected DFLers, including Sen. Linda Scheid of Brooklyn Park, DNC member Bill Davis also of Brooklyn Park, Rep. Jerry Newton of Coon Rapids, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman and Edina Mayor Jim Hovland.

“I’m proud to have earned the support of so many great people from all around the district. We’re building this team one person at a time and every one will be crucial in ensuring victory this November.” Meffert said in a statement.