Although U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar and I don't agree on everything, I am confident he truly represents northern Minnesota. He can make tough decisions and get things done; he listens and has this district's best interests at heart.
His challenger, Chip Cravaack, boasts he has never held political office. I don't see how this is desirable. There is a huge difference between spouting political slogans and doing the work of a congressman -- advancing issues important to the district's people while productively working with 434 other representatives.
Candidates talk about issues in black and white. But in the real world, bills to vote on are compromises and are not phrased in campaign terms. How will Cravaack handle the grey issues and complex votes? His experience void gives us no clue.
I urge Cravaack to first do the hard work of a school board, county board or city council member. Then we could see how he works with others of differing views and how he makes hard decisions.
Some may be charmed by Cravaack's political innocence, but his total lack of experience at even the most entry level is not a strong point.
ADVERTISEMENT
Let's keep Oberstar as our effective, trusted representative.
Anita Stech
Duluth
