LEADING IRON RANGE DEMOCRAT DOUG JOHNSON ENDORSES NORM COLEMAN

Says Coleman Best Suited To Bring Better Jobs To Iron Range And Greater MN, Has Temperament To Get Things Done

 
ST. PAUL– In an interview with the Mesabi Daily News, former state Sen. Doug Johnson (DFL-Cook) announced that he is endorsing Norm Coleman’s reelection.
 
Johnson, a Democrat and former Mayor, served in the Minnesota Legislature for 32 years before retiring in 2002. Long recognized as one of the most influential voices on the Iron Range, Johnson is also well-known for his leadership as Chairman of the powerful Senate Tax Committee during his time in the Minnesota Senate.
 
Throughout his career, Johnson has been involved in most of the major jobs and economic development related issues on the Iron Range, and is widely respected among Democrats and Republicans for his ability to put party affiliation on the back burner in order to get things done on the Range.
 
Often seen as a tough negotiator, Johnson is a fierce advocate for Iron Range jobs, economic development and vitality. 
 
According to Coleman, Johnson's endorsement represents more than just personal support, it is an indication that folks on the Iron Range are looking beyond party labels to find leaders who will work together to get things done.
 
“Doug's been a tremendous force in this state, and on the Iron Range, for nearly four decades. He's not just a highly regarded public servant, he's a passionate advocate for the Range. An individual who has put his heart and soul into making a difference, and improving the lives of the region and the state," said Senator Coleman. "I've been honored to work with Senator Johnson throughout my career -- first in the Attorney General's Office, then as Mayor, and now, as United States Senator. This isn't just an endorsement of an exceptional public servant. This is the endorsement of a person whose entire life is about finding common ground, putting partisan politics aside and finding ways to create an environment in which real work can get done. Doug knows that creating jobs, expanding the economy and creating opportunity isn't a Democrat or Republican issue -- in this state, it's a Minnesota issue -- and we all need to work together to get it done. I am proud of this endorsement on a professional level, but as importantly, on a personal level, as well. Doug's been a great partner, and a great friend."
 
According to the Mesabi Daily News, Johnson had this to say about Coleman.
 
“Norm Coleman has a passion on issues without getting angry at the opposition. This way, Norm can work across party lines and get things done for the Range and state, similar to what I used to do in the Legislature. Al Franken appears passionate but angry. And if you go to Washington angry you might as well stay home as you won’t get anything done…Also, I believe strongly that Norm Coleman is the best candidate for jobs on the Range and in rural Minnesota. Norm Coleman was a jobs mayor in St. Paul and as a U.S. senator and that’s why the Minnesota Carpenters Union and the Minnesota Pipe Trades have endorsed him. He understands rural Minnesota and many blue collar workers understand that.”
 
To learn more about Doug Johnson’s endorsement, go to http://www.virginiamn.com/articles/2008/09/28/news/doc48def75a38cfc857117666.txt (subscription required). 
 

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