In advance of Palin visit, Clark posts numbers, Reed slams Bachmann

On the eve of Rep. Michele Bachmann’s campaign event with Sarah Palin in Minneapolis, opponents of the Sixth District Republican are gathering steam in the race to unseat the controversial legislator. DFL-endorsed Sen. Tarryl Clark announced big fundraising numbers, while Dr. Maureen Reed, who is challenging Clark in the DFL primary in August, criticized Bachmann for holding the event outside her district. And the DFL is planning their own protest outside the Minneapolis Hilton during a fundraiser with Palin that will cost up to $10,000 per couple.

“I can’t help asking the question – ‘what was she thinking?’ – what good reason does Michele Bachmann have to hold her rally and event in Minneapolis, outside her district, when there are some world class venues located in St, Cloud, Blaine and Stillwater?” Jason Isaacson, Reed’s campaign manager said in a statement Tuesday. “In tough economic times, it would make sense that Michele Bachmann would show pride in where she lives and help residents and businesses benefit financially by scheduling her events in the district that sent her to Washington, D.C.”

The Reed campaign then suggested several large venues within the district.

Meanwhile, Clark’s campaign says it has raised $1.1 million so far with $500 raised in the last 3 months.

“Washington isn’t working for the people of the 6th District, and neither is Michele Bachmann,” Zach Rodvold, Clark’s campaign manager said in a statement. “It’s clear that folks have had enough of Congresswoman Bachmann and her relentless pursuit of her personal agenda. They’re ready for real leadership on the issues that matter – like jobs and the economy – issues Congresswoman Bachmann has neglected and obstructed. They’re lining up behind Tarryl Clark because they know she’ll stand up for the people of her district and deliver real results.”

Finally, the DFL party is planning to protest “against the ineffective Bachmann-Palin Tea Party Agenda” at the Bachmann fundraiser with Palin.

“[It's] the latest in each of their national travels to promote an agenda that has failed to offer any effective solution for Minnesotans during difficult economic time,” according a statement by the party.

Demonstrators will meet at 4 pm in front of the Minneapolis Hilton.