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An e-mail to his supporters:
Dear Friend: Each Minnesota governor takes a Constitutional oath to faithfully execute the laws of this State. This oath is broken when the doors of government are closed.
Over the 229-year history of the United States, fifty state governments have enacted thousands of budgets. On only one other occasion has a state (Tennessee) been so poorly governed that its government was shut down. In 1973, Time Magazine applauded Minnesota as “the state that works.” By contrast, after a humiliating government shutdown this year, the New York Times highlighted the gridlock of Minnesota government.
Throughout the years, Minnesota has been blessed with political leaders who participated in building Minnesota as a state of greatness. While they represented different political parties, they each had a common standard: never place the demands of an interest group before the interests of the people. The test of true leadership was whether a candidate would stand up to special interest groups. An official who places the pledge of an interest group before the Constitutional oath of office fails this test.
The Governor placed his pledge to the Taxpayers League above his oath to the people of this State. This is one of the reasons why state government closed its doors.
I will announce my candidacy for Governor on Monday, October 24, and I ask for your support. My pledge will be to honor my oath to the people of this State and not to make pledges to interest groups. While I have made mistakes, I have always placed this State and its people first in my priorities, incurring the wrath of lobbyists, special interest groups, and others who believe government officials ought to honor their special interests and ignore the public’s interest.
Please visit my website, www.hatch2006.org, to review my introductory brochure, news releases, speeches, and position papers. I ask for your support and hope you will contribute to this cause. Your contribution is eligible for a dollar‑for‑dollar refund from the State of Minnesota, up to $50 per person or $100 per couple (in total per year).
I look forward to working with you and to restoring our pride in this great State.
Sincerely, MIKE HATCH
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