Education Minnesota makes endorsements in 9 races
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ST. PAUL, Minn. Feb. 11, 2016 - Education Minnesota has endorsed candidates in nine more races for the Minnesota Legislature.
"Minnesota parents, students and educators need leaders who will listen to them when it comes to confronting the challenges our schools face," said Denise Specht, president of Education Minnesota. "Our union is endorsing candidates who will consider our input and help us prepare every student for a successful life."
Education Minnesota endorses candidates in two ways. Some incumbents are selected based on their records of support for public education. Other candidates are endorsed after meeting with screening committees of educators who live or work in the candidate's district.
The union will release lists of new endorsements from time to time during the campaign season. The complete list can be found on Education Minnesota's website.
The newly-endorsed candidates:
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Senate District 7, Duluth: Rep. Erik Simonson
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Senate District 60, Minneapolis: Kari Dziedzic
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Senate District 62, Minneapolis: Jeff Hayden
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House District 6A, Hibbing: Julie Sandstede
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House District 7B, Duluth: Liz Olson
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House District 17B, Willmar: Mary Sawatzky
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House District 25A, Mantorville: Linda Walbruch
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House District 41A, Fridley: Ruben Vazquez. This endorsement is contingent on Rep. Connie Bernardy not running for this seat.
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House District 41B, New Brighton: Mary Kunesh-Podein. This endorsement is contingent on Rep. Carolyn Laine not running for this seat.
The list includes four candidates who are current or former educators in public schools: Julie Sandstede, Mary Sawatzy, Linda Walbruch and Mary Kunesh-Podein. All nine endorsed candidates are members of the DFL party.
Specht made the following comments about several of the candidates:
Erik Simonson: “Erik’s time in the Minnesota House has been marked by outspoken support for working Minnesotans coupled with quiet and effective behind-the-scenes work to advance key policies," Specht said. "Erik’s been a champion for our members and students in the House, and we’re looking forward to working with him in the Senate.”
Liz Olson: “Liz will be a champion on healthcare, homelessness, social justice and working family issues," Specht said. "She’s deeply committed to fighting for progress on the types of issues that impact our students both inside and outside of the classroom.”
Julie Sandstede: “Few elected officials are as deeply rooted in their communities and schools as Julie. She offers more than just a strong voice for the Iron Range and its students and families, she’ll also bring connections and relationships that go back decades and a true understanding of the needs of her district," Specht said.
Ruben Vazquez: “Ruben’s work in the public schools, both directly and as an active parent, have prepared him to provide a clear vision for our public schools," Specht said. "He’ll be a champion for students and families, and for making college affordable to everyone. I’ve worked directly with Ruben and know his passion is matched by his attention to detail and drive to get good things done.”
Mary Kunesh-Podein: “As a 20-year teacher and a leader in her local union, Mary knows firsthand how important it is that policy makers put our public schools first," Specht said. "Mary’s commitment to her students and her community, along with her background in public service, make her a perfect fit for the district and the Legislature.”
About Education Minnesota
Education Minnesota is the voice for professional educators and students. Education Minnesota’s members include teachers and education support professionals in Minnesota’s public school districts, faculty members at Minnesota’s community and technical colleges and University of Minnesota campuses in Duluth and Crookston, retired educators and student teachers. Education Minnesota is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and AFL-CIO.