An open letter from Vice President Walter Mondale and Governor Arne Carlson

October 28, 2004

To the residents of

District 52B:

Our great state has long had a tradition of striving to be the best. As Minnesotans, we took pride in our quality of life and fully expected our political system to elect a community’s best and brightest. Whether Democrat or Republican, we felt that our quality of life was unique and we expected our elected officials to represent the very finest in Minnesota.

As veterans of numerous political campaigns, we fully expect the normal slings and arrows of political engagement. However, in recent years we are increasingly alarmed at the mean-spiritedness of politics and the more than occasional use of
personal attack. When it reaches that level, it becomes an assault on every one of us as citizens because democracy rests on the assumption that politics must bring out the best in all of us and not cater to our lower instincts.

Although we have disagreed on issues over the years, we have come together to proudly and enthusiastically endorse the reelection of Rebecca Otto. In fact, we have come to admire her courage and determination because few candidates have walked on the coals of fire and emerged as competent and optimistic as Rebecca. In our eyes, she stands tall.

Her sense of prudence in finance, her genuine commitment to the well-being of our children, and her tireless energy on behalf of her constituents make her a superb choice.

We need good leaders particularly in this time of sharp division and stalemate. Rebecca Otto represents the finest in our proud Minnesota tradition.

Warmest regards,

Vice President Walter Mondale     Governor Arne Carlson