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MN GOP PRESS RELEASE: “TINKLENBERG BREAKS WORD; RACE TO THE LEFT BEGINS IN SIXTH DISTRICT”
By Michael B. Brodkorb | October 2, 2007
I received this press release yesterday afternoon.
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"With his decision to break his word to the Sixth District, Elwyn Tinklenberg cements his position as just another politician who cannot be trusted. Given Tinklenberg’s record of pandering to far-left activists in his last failed campaign, it is clear we can expect more of the same this time around." – Ron Carey, Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman
Tinklenberg Originally Promised He Would Not Run
“Former state transportation commissioner Elwyn Tinklenberg told the Times he won't run for the DFL Party endorsement for the 6th Congressional District and won't be a candidate in 2008. ‘I just came to the conclusion that it wasn't going to be possible for me to do that again this soon after the last campaign,’ Tinklenberg said in a Times CapitolCast interview. ‘I need to take some time now to focus on my family and on my business.’” (Lawrence Schumacher, “Tinklenberg Decides Against Run For House Seat In 2008,” St. Cloud Times, May 6, 2007)
Tinklenberg: “That kind of campaign, to do it well, puts a tremendous burden a candidate – in terms of their family, in terms of their time, in terms of in my case in their business. You almost have to put everything on hold while you do that. And after a lot of time and a lot of thought, and talking with my wife, talking with people I respect in Washington and here in Minnesota, I came to the conclusion that it just wasn’t going to be possible for me to do that again this soon after the last campaign.” (El Tinklenberg Interview, “CapitolCast with Larry Schumacher,” St. Cloud Times Podcast, May 6, 2007)
Tinklenberg: “It’s not going to be possible for me to be the candidate.” (El Tinklenberg Interview, “CapitolCast with Larry Schumacher,” St. Cloud Times Podcast, May 6, 2007)
Flashback: Tinklenberg Criticized Patty Wetterling For Changing Her Mind About Running
Tinklenberg Calls Wetterling Decision “Disappointing.” “‘It's disappointing. What drew us to her most was the idea that she was not just another politician,’ he said Friday. ‘Now, she says things have changed. I'm sad to say I believe one of the things that has changed most is Patty.’” (Lawrence Schumacher, “Wetterling Declares Bid For 6th District,” St. Cloud Times, February 4, 2006)
Tinklenberg Disappointed In Patty Wetterling’s Change Of Mind Says “‘I'm Sad To Say That One Of The Things That Has Changed The Most Is Patty.”Tinklenberg, a former state transportation commissioner, said he's supported Wetterling in the past, in part because she was ‘not just another politician.’ But Friday, shortly after her Anoka news conference announcing her new campaign, Tinklenberg agreed with Wetterling's claim that the situation has changed. ‘I'm sad to say that one of the things that has changed the most is Patty,’ he said, noting repeatedly that he was disappointed in her decision. She and Tinklenberg will now vie for party endorsement.” (Rachel Stassen-Berger, “Wetterling Jumps Back In The Race — This Time For U.S. House, Again,” Pioneer Press, February 4, 2006) “
Tinklenberg Says Commitments “Become Most Important When Things Change.” “Tinklenberg said Wetterling told him that ‘things change, the world moves on.’ Tinklenberg said he is disappointed. ‘I think that's what commitments are all about,’ he said. ‘They become most important when things change.’” (Eric Black, “Tinklenberg: Wetterling To Run In 6th,” Star Tribune, February 3, 2006)
Tinklenberg Criticizes Wetterling; Cited Dramatic Life Changes Made Based On Her Assurances She Would Not Run. “In an interview, Tinklenberg said he supported Wetterling in 2004 and would have deferred to her if she had run again. Before entering the race last spring, he spoke to her. ‘She said she was not running; she encouraged us to get in the race. On the basis of that, my wife and I and all of our family have changed our lives dramatically, to move ahead aggressively in what we believe is a worthwhile effort, and it was all based on her commitment to me that she does not intend to run in the Sixth.’” (Pat Doyle and Eric Black, “Hatch Asks Wetterling To Join Ticket,” Star Tribune, January 25, 2006)
Tinklenberg Out Of Touch With Sixth District
Tinklenberg: "I Would Support A Resolution For Impeachment If It Was Brought To Me." (MPR's "Midday," May 10, 2006)
Tinklenberg Opposes Federal Amendment Defining Marriage As Between A Man And A Woman. “Both Tinklenberg and Wetterling said they oppose a federal constitutional amendment defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman and barring any state law giving the legal benefits of marriage to unmarried couples.” (Patrick Sweeney, “Wetterling Makes Her Second Try For 6th: Tinklenberg Also Seeks DFL Backing In Right-Leaning District,” Pioneer Press, May 12, 2006)
Tinklenberg Supports Clinton Era Gun Controls. “(Tinklenberg) also said, however, that had he been in Congress in 2004, he would have voted to extend a federal ban on assault rifles.” (Patrick Sweeney, “Wetterling Makes Her Second Try For 6th: Tinklenberg Also Seeks DFL Backing In Right-Leaning District,” Pioneer Press, May 12, 2006)
Tinklenberg Would Not Favor Overturning Roe v. Wade. “Tinklenberg calls himself ‘pro-life.’ But neither favors overturning Roe vs. Wade.” (Eric Black, “Race In The Sixth Promises To Be Close,” Star Tribune, May 12, 2006)
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31 Responses to “MN GOP PRESS RELEASE: “TINKLENBERG BREAKS WORD; RACE TO THE LEFT BEGINS IN SIXTH DISTRICT””
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October 2nd, 2007 at 9:22 AM
People of the district wont care that he said he wouldnt run and then changed his mind. It wont be deemed him lying, it will be deemed that he changed his mind and that he is actually up for the run when he thought he wouldnt.
Its like how the public never cares when a politician term limits themselves and thent hey decide to break that and keep running. Like Susan Collins, no one actually cares, even though sometimes they should, like when the term limit pledge is due to wanting a change in public policy and all these sort of moral reasons to mandate change, Collins just thought 12 years would be good for her.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:37 AM
I would tend to agree that Tinklenberg changing his mind about running isn’t exactly paramount to his candidacy.
At least it shouldn’t be.
Moreover, the man actually has a built-in rationale FOR entering the race: As the former Transportation Commissioner under Ventura, he has the expertise and know-how to rectify certain problems here in MN. (Read 35W Bridge & Road Maintenance issues)
That said, I will continue to support Rep. Bachmann as she best represents my views and votes in my best interest.
El Tinklenberg is no dummy, he is no slouch.
He is smart, accomplished and is certainly a more moderate—dare I say, conservative Democrat (if such a bredd exists anymore).
If he winds up becoming the endorsed candidate, this is a particularly good move by the DFL. Tinklenberg can appeal to a broader base of voters and is more attractive to the 6th district.
Wetterling was an abysmal candidate, through and through. This is not a PERSONAL attack, but it is a correct statement to make if you ever saw her give her stump speech, and report to voters where she willingly took donations from—far left special interests.
Say what you will about Bachmann: Divisive, polarizing, pretentious—whatever.
Tinklenberg presents a serious candidacy that could throw the 6th district into a “toss-up” category.
Remember–I said “could.”
This will be contingent on his ability to resist pressure and money from the MoveOn.org’s, and ultra-liberal, socially-based special interests.
Wetterling took money from MoveOn, and EMILY’S List–that doesn’t fly with voters in the 6th.
In my view–the race in the 6th just got interesting.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:57 AM
GOP Optimist… more correct to say:
“As the former Transportation Commissioner under Ventura, he bears some responsibility for certain problems here in MN. (Read 35W Bridge & Road Maintenance issues)”
Moreover, Tinklenberg will be just as apt to take money from corrupt, anti-American organizations like MoveOn.org, and pro-child murder groups like NARAL and Emily’s List, and other ultra-liberal bullshit organizations as Wetterling was.
Sad what the DFL did to Wetterling. They turned her from a sympathetic mother who lost her son, in to a typical lying, cheating do anything to win an election Democrat.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:08 AM
I want to know what the person is smoking that thinks Tink could make the 6th CD a toss up.
Michele Bachmann will serve as long as she desires to serve in the 6th CD. She represents the values and positions of the vast majority of her constituents.
Wetterling got hammered three times in the 6th CD by Kennedy and Bachmann (during an awful election year to be a republican I might add). How many losses before Elwyn hangs up his cleats?
Bachmann as an incumbent may top 70% in the 6th CD.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:32 AM
Look folks, you don’t have to be smoking anything to realistically understand that Tinklenberg simply presents a better resume for the job and is a smarter candidate.
As I stated above–this is CONTINGENT on the fact that he DOESN’T take money from liberal special interests and reduce himself to blindly partisan attacks.
I think he makes it an interesting race because he is more seasoned and versed on certain issues, as opposed to Wetterling.
Yes, Bachmann won and clearly represents 6th district views well….but we should all have the honesty to admit that the race was a hell of a lot closer than it EVER should have been. That is why I think if Tinklenberg runs as a moderate, populist Democrat…he actually stands a chance.
Again, I said he has a chance.
Of course I support Bachmann and I like her, but 70%??? That’s probably reaching a bit.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:39 AM
If Tinklenberg has “the expertise and know-how to rectify certain problems (35W bridge collapse and bridge and road maintenance issues)”, they why didn’t he address those situations when he was transportation chief?
Wasn’t the Ventura administration the chief backer of light rail? Apparently, trains won out over roads.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:59 AM
Jesus, Mary and Joseph…..
Roads and bridges have been, are and always will be a money pit and a problem for WHOEVER is elected and in charge. MN’s weather cycles will always ensure that.
My point in the earlier post is that (I think) Tinklenberg could use his experience in MN DOT as the basis for his campaign and it could play well for him.
Or it might not.
My point is that he brings more to the table for the undecided voter to think about–AS OPPOSED TO WETTERLING.
I am a conservative Republican and support Michele Bachmann.
But Christ, what has always set this weblog apart from knee-jerk reactionary sites on the left is thoughtful insight and interesting analysis—
Let’s try not to stray from that…
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:03 AM
Elwyn is definitely a better candidate than Wetterling ever was in the first place. I’ll give you that. But I still predict Michele wins by two touchdowns.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:07 AM
Drew saying that “Bachmann as an incumbent may top 70% in the 6th CD” is the funniest thing that I have heard in months. It is also the most insane thing I’ve heard.
Drew, are you willing to back up what you said? If she doesn’t get more than 70%, you will never post on MDE again. If she does get more than 70%, I’ll never post on MDE again. I’ll also make you a side bet of $1,000.00 that she doesn’t get over 70%.
You in or are you just full of hot air?
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:07 AM
GOP Optimist,
Your citing of Jesus, Mary and Joseph for openers and then to “Christ” later in your post somehow contributes to “thoughtful insight and interesting analysis”?
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:12 AM
Emmer:
We’re on the same political side here.
I’d rather focus our discussion on the press release posted by Brodkorb and what it could mean for the 6th district race.
I didn’t think my choice of language on a blog posting was all that important.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:18 AM
Time as chief of Transportation is to Tinklenberg as Vietnam service is to John Kerry. Looks good from the outset, but once you learn the truth, it’ll hurt them.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:33 AM
Chestnut: 100% true.
However, there are enough DFL voters who will turn a blind eye to his record and buy into his talking points and platform.
Combine that with the obvious hatred and vitriol that we see from the DFL directed towards Bachmann—-and they (Liberals) probably see this as a chance to win.
I’m sure there were plenty of Democrats in ’04 who KNEW John Kerry wasn’t exactly G.I. Joe, as he would have us beleive, but they voted for him anyway because they hated Bush so much.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:40 AM
The entire communion of saints thank you for the mention.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:45 AM
Trompo, I will bet she will win no matter who the challenger!
care to take that bet??
That means you would not get to come back under another name! You would be only allowed to enlighten yourself with the great wisedom that comes with reading this blog.
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:54 PM
Yeah, I follow you GOP Optimist. And I don’t disagree. Would be nice to call the DFL anti-Christian bigotry for what it is throughout the process.
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:46 PM
Bachmann wins by 10+!!! Wanna bet…here or on the side??? Also, I agree with GOP optimist that Tink is their best candidate! However, I don’t think this race becomes toss up. Like Emmer said, Bachmann probably has the seat for as long as she would like to have the seat:)
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:58 PM
I like to know the pain felt by liberals who hear that Bachmann will hold the seat as long as she wants is equal to my pain that some flaming anti-American leftist liberal will be voted in by the 5th every time.
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:26 PM
Dumpbachmann.com acknowledges connection to Stillwater Infidel aka NSA.
http://www.wrightrepublican.blogspot.com
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:04 PM
Drew – you are lying. Tom Nacey came to one of our meetups (I think) – and a person named “infidel” has commented at least once on our comments.
Stillwater Infidel’s posts on the HeavyLeavy834 site (which I never accessed) as reported in the Stillwater press were indefensible.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:11 PM
To add to my previous post, Dump Bachmann meetups are open to the public (just like comment sections).
I was under no obligation to answer Drew Emmer’s questions, but I have nothing to hide.
As I commented on your blog, Drew – attempt to connect Dump Bachmann to the Stillwater Infidel is a conspiracy theory. Why try to do this, if you are so confident that Bachmann will get 70% of the vote?
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:24 PM
Does anyone else see the irony in someone from Dumpbachmann crying foul over a conspiracy theory???………..Isn’t that crowd all about stalking Michele Bachmann because they think “she’s out to get them”?????
October 3rd, 2007 at 12:40 AM
The Dump Bachmann blog is about exposing the antics of the national joke otherwise known as Non-Representative Michele Bachmann. The problem with Non-Representative Bachmann is she is a self-serving do-nothing self-promoter and a nut, liar and bigot. She campaigns and does photo ops – but when it comes to the nuts and bolts of actual legislating, she is missing in action.
Jim Knoblach would have been a much better representative for the 6th district – and he takes the same positions Bachmann does on the social issues, but he’s a legislator who has an actual record of accomplishment in the state house.
October 3rd, 2007 at 7:44 AM
Kinda like Paul Wellstone, Eva?
Michelle is much better, smarter and competent than that…
October 3rd, 2007 at 8:34 AM
Eva you are missing the point.
I’ve simply been asking questions about possible connections between dumpbachmann.com and Stillwater Infidel.
You established that there is indeed connectivity in that either Tom Nacey or someone else writing as Stillwater Infidel posted on dumpbachmann and attended one of your meet ups.
Now if Stillwater Infidel attended a dumpbachmann meet up there is the distinct possibility that he met and became familiar with members of the dumpbachmann.com team. Is that so hard to surmise?
Your hatred of Michele Bachmann has little to do with her capacity as an elected offcial. But that’s not what my questions have been about.
I’m trying to find out who the cadre of posters are that used the moniker Stillwater Infidel aka NSA to threaten and intimidate activists in Stillwater. It’s about uncovering a cancer on the blogosphere that threatens to diminish public debate.
Kindly pull your single issue head out of your single issue sand and pitch in and help me solve this puzzle, for the good of all political speech and personal liberties. I’m counting on you to engage and become part of this solution.
October 3rd, 2007 at 9:48 AM
Eva,
You assert that I am lying. I asked you if there was any connection. You responded. I published your response in its entirety and then you say I am lying. Kindly point out the lie or retract.
I understand that you may feel deeply threatened right now by the credibility of your blog being called into question. That’s your reaction but not my intent.
Dumpbachmann.com has used guilt by association as a weapon in the blogosphere for years. I’m not interested in that.
I simply want to expose any affiliation between any of your blog authors, Tom Nacey and Stillwater Infidel aka NSA. The point is to uncover, discover and discard the infection around this Stillwater Infidel mess. Unfortunately, it appears that your group is precariously close to this issue. That’s why I’m asking questions.
I suspect you will agree that if there is any complicity between your members and the Stillwater Infidel aka NSA moniker, past or present, that it will be a necessary and healthy exercise to exise that association from your blog.
If you can categorically state that no one on your team knows Tom Nacey, or had anything to do ever with Nacey or Stillwater Infidel aka NSA, then say so. If you don’t know, then say so.
October 3rd, 2007 at 9:50 AM
Drew,
Your right about the hatred, but you forget the stalker part! I was at the star tribune blog the other night, and there was a link to “pictures of Michele Bachmann”…….not surprisingly, guess who was responsible for possting about 300+ pics of Michele???? That’s right, Eva Young!!! All I can say is that if someone posts over 300 pics (some of which are photo shopped) of me…..I’m calling the police or an attorney for a possible restraining order!
October 3rd, 2007 at 9:52 AM
Drew I’ll bet on your 70% prediction if Michele’s opposition is Eva Young or one of her other stalker friends:)
October 3rd, 2007 at 1:38 PM
Eva’s a bigot. Nothing more.
October 4th, 2007 at 9:36 AM
Eva and Bill Prendergast respond again: http://www.wrightrepublican.blogspot.com
October 5th, 2007 at 8:57 AM
I view Tinklenberg as an arrogant fool. He first came to my attention when he was defending the use of the merge lights onto the freeway system. Tinklenberg stated that we had the foremost metering expert in the nation.
Well, Dick Day forced a study to be done on the metering system, and it was found to way overdone and essentially shut down. I could have told anyone that much at a much cheaper cost as I was stuck at a meter many times for 15-20 minutes. The meters would also be active during snow storms when traffic was not moving on the freeways. No one thought this was a reasonable use of metering lights.
My commute has improved significantly since Tinklenberg left the transportation scene.