I Don’t Hate America!

Steve Sarvi, Iraq war veteran and former mayor of Watertown, announced his candidacy for Congress in Minnesota’s Second District at a press conference today at the state capitol. The seat is currently held by Bush-ally John Kline, a Republican from Lakeville.

“I learned in the Army that when you think you’re off course, you should stop, check your compass, and change direction as needed. After five years without the kind of service and representation that 2nd District voters deserve, it’s time to change course, not only in the White House, but in the people’s House,” Sarvi said in a statement.

“The people standing with me today represent service, sacrifice and change. My fellow veterans answered their country’s call to put themselves in harm’s way. They represent the best tradition of America’s greatness, of putting country above self. We must keep our promise to them to always honor their service and sacrifice,” he continued.

Sarvi noted the political climate in the Second District could be favorable for a victory with several state legislative wins including the recent victory of Northfield teacher Kevin Dahle in a special election.

Much like Kline’s support of Bush’s policies, Sarvi’s criticism of Kline is quite unwavering.

“Americans have always overcome what is hard in order to achieve what is great. Nowhere is that more true than in Minnesota. Our optimism and pragmatism have made us an international model of voter engagement, environmental stewardship, energy innovation, health care, campaign finance, and public education.

“John Kline has failed to take Minnesota’s unique capacity for problem-solving to Washington. He has failed to serve the voters who honored him with the job of Congressman. I will not just win this election; I will do from day one what I have always done: serve my country and my community, bringing neighbors together to build an America and a Minnesota that is stronger, safer, and better able to prosper in the future,” he said.

Sarvi also announced he would begin a 15-stop district-wide listening tour on February 15, his second tour so far.

This entry was posted on Thursday, February 7th, 2008 at 3:28 pm and is filed under MN-2, John Kline, Steve Sarvi, 2008. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.