Patriot News MN

TO THE EDITOR:

At Caucus on February 1, the Republican party will conduct a straw poll for governor. Join me in supporting Paul Gazelka for governor in that straw poll. Senator Gazelka has always supported our conservative values and is the proven, battle-tested leader that MN needs to defeat Tim Walz. No other candidate has the experience needed to effectively govern, balance budgets, protect our rights, defeat the radical left, and take our state back. Any candidate can talk a tough game, but Gazelka is the only one we can trust that has actually been there to fight Dayton, Walz, and the democrats. As a part-time citizen legislator and successful business owner who also led the Senate Republican Majority for 5 years, he knows what it takes to be an effective leader, to win, and to get things done starting on day one. Gazelka called the White House to get the National Guard on the streets during the riots when Walz failed. Gazelka stopped the statewide implementation of CRT in our schools. Gazelka ended Walz’s emergency powers and will make sure it never happens again. Vote for Paul Gazelka on February 1st! To find your local caucus location, visit: https://caucusfinder.sos.state.mn.us/.

Blake Paulson

Becker, MN

TO THE EDITOR:

After our unthinkable tragedy losing our home to a house fire, the local community has filled us with generosity & love. Friends, family & strangers have been so generous as I embark on this gigantic task of rebuilding our lives. Thank you to Clearwater & Annandale Fire Dept, Nova Care & Riverside Nutrition (Clearwater), Jenna Witherbee family, Kelly and Maverick Wolke family, Schuler Shoes (St. Cloud), Carters (St. Michael), Annandale Schools, Big Lake Police Dept & many others. I have a long road ahead of me. I am so grateful. Your generosity has allowed me to focus on the love I have for my kids & push forward to persevere. If you would like to support Maggie & her family, visit Gofundme.com and search “Rebuilding a home for Maggie”

Maggie Simpson

Lester Prairie, MN

TO THE EDITOR:

Help me understand! Are we not all created equal? Apparently not. We all must present photo IDs to board a plane, make big-ticket purchases…or even use our credit card for less costly items. A photo ID is required for seeking medical attention, purchasing cigarettes, alcohol, or a gun…and getting married. The list is longer. Now many communities are requiring a passport to prove vaccination status to enter public venues. This week, our senators in Washington, D.C. , yet again, debate the need or lack of need for photo IDs as a part of our voting rights. Help me understand! Why are some walls unnecessary and others purposeful? Our southern border was open in 2021 with an estimated two million undocumented persons entering our country illegally (without personal ID). Yet a year ago, fences were built in Washington, D.C. to protect politicians. Fences came up in Minneapolis and St. Paul against feared violence at the Capitol and courthouses. This summer a $500,000 taxpayer-funded wall sprang up on a beach in Delaware. Now a concrete wall is being erected around the White House. Is “for thee and not for me” the new motto in the USA? I pray—NOT!!