If elected Governor, Becky Lourey will set a minimum number of classroom days for students in elementary and secondary schools throughout Minnesota .  Unveiling her Lifelong Learning Education Plan today, Lourey also criticized Governor Pawlenty’s 70 percent classroom spending proposal as “a gimmick that can be manipulated by school officials.”  She offers a streamlined waiver alternative to reduce administrative costs.

“Common sense tells us we need to require that our students are in the classroom a minimum number of days so they can master their academic skills,” Lourey said.  “We must move those minimum requirements in Minnesota closer to the standards set in the majority of states – not to mention the even higher class time standards of other nations.”      No fewer than 32 states require 180 days of classroom instruction each year. Most industrialized nations require at least 200 days of instruction.  Schools in Minnesota average 174 days of instruction – a deficit of more than five weeks compared to the global competition.  If elected, Becky Lourey would return Minnesota to a base requirement of 175 days next year, and add the equivalent of one day a year for the following three years.

Lourey said administrative efficiency in schools can best be accomplished through understanding and cooperation rather than pushing for artificial standards in a media campaign.  “My proposal calls for streamlining the state’s education waiver process, encouraging individual schools, districts and groups of school districts to seek exceptions to paperwork rules, mandates and regulations that drive up school administration costs,” Lourey said.

Unlike other candidates for Governor in 2006, Becky Lourey has offered a detailed Fiscal Policy Framework to explain how to pay for state obligations.  “Education is the number one financial obligation in Minnesota – and should remain so,” Lourey said.  “For at least a decade, funding education in our state has been spotty at best.  Pledges to adequately fund our systems of education must be backed by sound fiscal policy.”

Check out the specifics of Senator Lourey's Lifelong Learning Education Plan.

Becky Lourey: President Has Failed to Lead
Security, Energy, Health Care Require Decisive State Action
August 21, 2006

In a statement released today, Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey strongly criticized President Bush in his failure to lead the nation in meeting the needs of health care, energy and national security.

"It wasn't until today – August 21, 2006 – that President Bush publicly recognized the Iraq War has strained the nation's psyche.  Yet, the damage done by his national security policy failures goes so much further than a strain on the American people.  It reaches the very fabric of our democracy and national economic welfare.  The Bush energy policy is muddled, weakening our national security and draining the pocketbooks of every Minnesota family.  His visit here -- apparently to speak about health care -- only shines a glaring light on his failure to offer any solutions to the health care crisis that exists in Minnesota and across the nation.  Today, in response to his lack of leadership and inaction, Republicans and Democrats in states across the nation are setting forward-looking policies on security, energy and health care.  Minnesota needs new leadership with a vision that is clear, decisive and inclusive."                     

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota .  She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.  

Check out the specifics of my HealthCare Security Plan.

Becky Lourey Touts Minnesota Clean Energy Policy
Security, Green Buildings, 21^st Century Transportation Emphasized 
August 16, 2006

An ambitious and far-reaching policy to head Minnesota toward independence was announced today by candidate for Governor Becky Lourey in St. Paul .  Her " Minnesota Clean: An Energy Security Declaration" features extensive building energy conservation measures and a road map to pollution-reducing 21st century transportation excellence.

"Minnesotans are pouring their hard-earned paychecks into bottomless gas tanks and huge utility bills," Lourey said.  "In response to the energy and war policy failures of the Bush administration and Congress, I have the energy security proposal to reverse this downward financial spiral."

Specifically, Lourey's Minnesota Clean energy policy proposes:

A Renewable Energy Standard – setting a 20% Renewable Electricity Standard by no later than 2020 stimulating heightened renewable energy economic activity, accompanied by directives to state departments and agencies in budget-setting

Highly Energy Efficient Buildings (where 40 percent of our energy dollars are spent) achieved through seven policy elements to improve energy efficiency in state buildings, schools, homes and commercial facilities. 

Smarter, Modern Energy Regulation featuring the decoupling of utility profits from volume sales for energy efficiency and market-driven pay-for-performance to improve operations and encourage energy alternatives.

Pollution-reducing 21^st Century Transportation Excellence in an eight-point plan emphasizing the use of hybrid flex-fuel vehicles, biofuels research, and ensuring adequate funding for roads, transit and transportation alternatives. 

State of Minnesota enrollment in the Chicago Energy Exchange -- an incentive for state government to achieve reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
 
"We hear a lot of talk about achieving energy independence by 2030, but it takes a real commitment to achieve this important self-sufficiency goal," Lourey said.  "As the top importer of electricity in the nation under current policies, we have put our economic security at risk.  We can and must demonstrate leadership to make Minnesota energy independent through conservation, energy-efficiency and investment in clean energy." 

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota .  She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.  Her website is www.BeckyLourey.org.

Read Senator Lourey's Energy Proposal: Minnesota Clean

Lourey Objects to Short-Circuiting of Democracy 
Hatch, party leaders ignore Sept. 12 primary, avoid issues debate  
August 14, 2006

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey strongly objects to the efforts of Mike Hatch and DFL Party leaders to short-circuit the democratic process by ignoring the Sept. 12 primary to nominate the DFL candidate.  Last week, Lourey's request for a debate on the issues was refused by her Sept. 12 primary opponent Mike Hatch.

"Endorsement should never close off the democratic process of selecting candidates at the ballot box," Lourey said.  "This effort by party leaders and Mike Hatch to ignore the Sept. 12 primary nomination process is unprecedented and unwise.  The DFL Party cannot appear elitist and further alienate Minnesota voters."

Lourey learned that Hatch had refused her request to debate through a radio newscast.  In the Hatch campaign response, a spokesperson indicated the debate only should be between Democrats and Republicans.  Earlier, Lourey was excluded from the Farmfest debate based solely on the party convention endorsement.

"Democrats can win when we are talking about the issues," Lourey stated in her letter to Hatch.  "By defeating Governor Pawlenty and his radical right-wing Republican agenda we Democrats can point our state in a new direction -- away from the politics of division and rancor – and toward improving the lives of Minnesotans.

 "Unfortunately, we've mostly seen a battle of personalities among party leaders and media skirmishes," Lourey said.  "If only we would start talking about education, health care, personal liberties and energy self-sufficiency, Democrats can show we're on the winning side of those issues.

"My positions on the issues provide a sharp contrast to Tim Pawlenty," Lourey said.  "A series of debates would give Attorney General Hatch the same opportunity to finally talk issues."   

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota .  She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.  Her website is www.BeckyLourey.org.

Read Senator Lourey's Letter to Mike Hatch.

Favoring an honest and direct approach to governing, DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey today called for a progressive Fiscal Policy Framework that includes fairer personal taxes, safer streets and a business-friendly health care tax credit.
“Today, I am proposing honest fiscal policy reform with some actual winners and losers – changes that will make Minnesota better,” Lourey said. “This plan is good for Minnesota business, good for the safety of our communities, and good for families all across our great state.”

Lourey is seeking the DFL party nomination in the Sept. 12 primary.
While many businesses and individual taxpayers are likely to see reduced overall tax burdens, those with the highest incomes will pay much closer to their fair share of the burden under the Lourey Fiscal Policy Framework. Unlike the sharp and sudden state fiscal changes implemented over the past five years, Lourey said her seven-point plan will be implemented gradually to avoid more shocks to the system.

Key features include a new Health Care Tax Credit encouraging businesses to provide health care coverage, Public Safety Government Aid restoring the state and local partnership, and stabilized E-12 Education financing that includes solid investment in early childhood education.

Lourey’s seven key fiscal policy goals are:

• A Fairer Tax Structure based on Ability to Pay
• Stability in E-12 Education Financing / Equal Opportunity for All
• Enhancing Public Safety in State and Local Partnerships
• Quality Health Care coverage for All
• Smart Transportation investments -- encouraging Conservation and Energy Alternatives
• Maximizing State Revenue from Tax Evaders & Avoiders, and
• Accountability Measures for Major Spending Categories, New Initiatives.

Lourey challenged Tim Pawlenty and others seeking the Governor’s Office to come clean on how they will pay for their prominent spending initiatives.

“Tim Pawlenty says he hasn’t raised taxes, and he doesn’t plan to raise taxes. But he has raised taxes – and those taxes and fees have hit modest and middle-income taxpayers hardest. I’m asking Tim Pawlenty, where is your plan to raise the revenue for all the new spending you have proposed in this election season?”

Lourey also challenged her DFL primary opponent, Mike Hatch, to explain how he will pay for new spending. “Timid fiscal changes and unrealistic tax collection expectations cannot move Minnesota forward to achieve our major policy goals.”

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Details of the Lourey Fiscal Policy Framework are available on the homepage of BeckyLourey.org.

Lourey-Baylor Ticket to Officially File Candidacy Monday
Becky Lourey and Tim Baylor also will appear at weekend parades
July 1 3, 2006

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey and her running mate for Lieutenant Governor Tim Baylor will officially file their candidacy on Monday, July 17. The filing is expected at 10 a.m. at the Secretary of State's Office in the State Office Building in Saint Paul.

Lourey and Baylor also will appear at the Rondo Days Parade and Festival in St. Paul on Saturday, June 15, and the Hopkins Raspberry Festival and Parade on Sunday, June 16. The Rondo Days Parade lines up at 9 a.m. and begins at 10 a.m. from St. Peter Claver Church, 375 N. Oxford Street. The Hopkins parade lines up at 11:30 a.m. and begins at 1 p.m. starting from 5th Avenue and Mainstreet.

Rep. Tina Liebling Endorses Becky Lourey
Lourey: Investing in Rochester Vital to Minnesota’s Success
June 3, 2006

A major swing in support heading into the state DFL convention week was announced today (Saturday) as Rochester Rep. Tina Liebling shifted her endorsement to Becky Lourey in the Democratic race for Governor.

“I am here today to announce I am endorsing Senator Becky Lourey for Governor,” Liebling said. “Sen. Lourey will be an effective governor who will give Rochester and the state the effective, common-sense leadership we deserve.”

“Investing responsibly in Rochester’s economic potential is vital to Minnesota’s long-term success,” Lourey said. “Rep. Liebling not only understands the right economic priorities for Southeastern Minnesota, she has already moved forward effectively on that agenda. It is a great honor to have Tina’s endorsement, and I hope to be working with her in St. Paul next year.”

Lourey will return to Rochester along with thousands of other Democrats at their 2006 state convention set for June 8-11 at the Mayo Civic Center. Sen. Lourey, a business owner and former farmer from Kerrick, faces two major challengers for endorsement in the Governor’s race – Attorney General Mike Hatch from Burnsville, and Hopkins Sen. Steve Kelley who is an attorney. Liebling had originally endorsed Hatch.

“ World class health care, biotech research, computing and results-oriented higher education come together in Rochester, and expanding those successes will be a high priority from day one in my administration,” Lourey said. “A shared vision, consistency and follow through on the region’s long-range economic goals will move us forward to greater prosperity. Frankly, good-faith cooperation is the key -- not short-term partisan calculations or divisive rhetoric.”

Lourey and Liebling share concerns about the economics of the proposed Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern (DM&E) Railroad expansion. Lourey attended a town meeting in Rochester last month called by Liebling to discuss the $2.5 billion federal loan approved earlier this year by Congress.

“ Legitimate safety and economic concerns raised by the Mayo Clinic, the Rochester business community and citizens have not been adequately answered by the DM&E and other supporters of routing heavy, long-haul coal train traffic directly through Rochester,” Lourey said. “Now is the time to start a constructive discussion of alternatives that will serve the best interests of all concerned – the Rochester community, farmers who need to move product to market efficiently, and the DM&E.”
Lourey is particularly concerned that taxpayers could be left with a huge debt to pay if the $2.5 billion loan to DM&E is not adequately secured.

“This huge, earmarked Congressional loan simply does not qualify as fiscally responsible,” Lourey said. “The private market was not interested; the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) frowned on it; and yet Congress slipped it through without the requisite public scrutiny or debate. We cannot allow any shifting of this potentially heavy debt burden onto state taxpayers. All Minnesota policy makers should speak out loud and clear on this point.”

Liebling expressed appreciation to Lourey for her courage to speak out and her desire to protect the interests of taxpayers.

“ To protect the taxpayer and to protect the citizens of Rochester, we need allies at both the state and federal levels,” Liebling said. “Becky Lourey understands the need to position Minnesota for the future with world-class education and affordable health care to ensure our competitiveness. She knows that for our economy to continue to flourish, we need effective transportation, sustainable energy, and a healthy environment as part of a renewed commitment to leave our children a clean, strong, prosperous Minnesota. As a business owner, legislator, farmer and mother, she knows how to get things done. Becky Lourey has the experience, the vision, and the leadership to make Minnesota an even better place to live and work.”

Becky Lourey Gains Minnesota Women's Campaign Fund Endorsement
June 2, 2006

With the endorsement today (June 2) of the Minnesota Women’s Campaign Fund, the Becky Lourey for Governor campaign continues picking up momentum and more key endorsements every week. The endorsement and a $2,000 contribution check came from the Fund’s political action committee. “We wish you great success and look forward to celebrating your victory and the inauguration of Minnesota’s first woman governor!” stated Minnesota Women’s Campaign Fund Executive Director Sara Fenlason. In recent weeks, Lourey also gained major endorsements from the DFL Veterans Caucus and the Minnesota chapter of the National Organization of Women (NOW).

“This important endorsement is another key step forward for my campaign, bringing together diverse political supporters who agree we need strong, pro-choice leadership in response to Tim Pawlenty’s record of failure,” Lourey said. “When it comes to personal liberties and important issues affecting women’s lives, Minnesota will head in a new direction under my leadership as Governor.”
The mission of the Minnesota Women's Campaign Fund is to encourage, promote and support pro-choice women's leadership in all political parties and levels of public office. MWCF was established in 1982 by a group of 25 bi-partisan women who wanted to increase the number of women in public office. In 1999, the organization created a 501c4 non-profit organization to continue raising awareness of the importance of electing women to public office. Today, MWCF (http://www.mnwcf.org) operates the non-profit organization as well as connected State and Federal political action committees.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee. Her website is www.beckylourey.org.

Becky Lourey Names Tim Baylor as Running Mate:
Developer, small business owner & former Vike tackles new challenge
May 31, 2006

In her selection of a running mate, Becky Lourey brings a new dimension to the Minnesota Governor’s race by announcing today the choice of Tim Baylor of Minneapolis as candidate for Lieutenant Governor.

Baylor brings sterling business and community credentials to the DFL ticket as a commercial developer, small business owner, civic leader and former pro football player.

“My wish list for a running mate called for community leadership qualities, broad appeal across a wide spectrum, diverse talents, a dynamic and energetic personality, extensive work experience beyond government and an excellent reputation for integrity,” Lourey said.  “Tim Baylor delivers the goods on every one of these counts and offers Minnesotans even more.  I am thrilled and honored he has accepted my invitation to complete the DFL ticket.”

“After getting to know Becky Lourey better, I wanted to join her team,” Baylor said.  “Although this is something entirely new to me, I look forward to the challenge.  It can only help to run with someone like Becky Lourey who brings fearlessness, energy and passion to the campaign trail. Together, I believe we have the passion to win.”

As founder and president of JADT Development Group, Baylor is a builder of residential and commercial developments in the Twin Cities, and also owns and operates two McDonald’s franchises located in Minneapolis and Robbinsdale.  Baylor shares a business background with Lourey who -- along with her husband Gene -- owns the 70-employee Nemadji Research Corp.

Baylor is a member of the McDonald’s Regional Leadership Council and the National Black McDonald’s Owners Association. As a past president of the West Broadway Area Coalition, Baylor initiated efforts of the City of Minneapolis and Hennepin County to revitalize this key corridor in North Minneapolis. He earlier served the City of Minneapolis as a Planning Commissioner from 1992-2001.

In recognition of extensive service to community, Baylor received the 2005 Business and Philanthropy Award of the National Center for Black Philanthropy. He was also a recipient of the Outstanding Young Men of America award in 1985. 

An inductee into the Morgan State Athletic Hall of Fame, Baylor played in the defensive backfield for the Baltimore Colts (10th round draft pick in 1976) and later for the Minnesota Vikings.   

“Becky Lourey and I share a common set of values,” Baylor said.  “We are champions of opportunity for all, treating people fairly, focusing our ttention on quality education and affordable health care for every Minnesotan.  While we are unlikely to hold similar positions on every possible issue, we agree that a diversity of views will broaden and strengthen the ticket.”

Lourey pointed to the dramatic political upside of bringing Baylor onto the ticket.

“Democrats win when we energize and broaden our base, drawing a sharp contrast with Republicans.  The Lourey-Baylor team will bring more excitement into this Governor’s race and deliver a convincing Democratic victory in November.  Becky Lourey and Tim Baylor -- we are both the passionate and practical choice in 2006.”

Tim is married to his college sweetheart, Doris, who is executive director of Community Outreach for the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis and Greater St. Paul, and also a principal in JADT Development. They have two adult children.  Married for nearly 30 years, Tim and Doris belong to the Speak the Word Church in Golden Valley.

The Lourey-Baylor ticket was announced at the State Capitol in Saint Paul in the morning, and later in Saint   Cloud on the Stearns County Courthouse steps where several DFL leaders came together to comment on anticipated Tim Pawlenty’s campaign start up.   

Becky Lourey Public Events Announced:
Two Memorial Day weekend observances included among her appearances, TV debate
May 21, 2006

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey will hold several major events over the next 10 days as her campaign schedule gears up following the Legislative Session.

Bud Philbrook and Michele Gran are hosting a house party Wednesday, May 24, 7-9 p.m., at 2634 Keller Pkwy., St. Paul. A former state legislator and former candidate for Governor in 2006, Philbrook has now endorsed Lourey for the office. Gran and Philbrook are co-founders of Global Volunteers, and are heavily involved in peace and children’s issues.

Margaret and Dan Shulman will host a house party Thursday, May 25, 6-7:30 p.m., 2400 Pillsbury Ave., Minneapolis. Joining the Shulmans as co-hosts are state Rep. Karen Clark, Minneapolis City Council member Robert Lilligren, Guy Gambill, Barb Jeanetta, Juan Linares, and Kim and Pete Rhodes.

DFL candidates for Governor will debate on Almanac broadcast live on Twin Cities Public Television KTCA-2, Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m. (please check http://tpt.org/almanac/broadcast.html for other Almanac broadcasts throughout the state).

One year to the week after Becky Lourey lost her son Matt when the Kiowa Warrior helicopter he was piloting was shot down in Iraq, she will share her perspectives as a Gold Star Mother at two Memorial Day weekend programs. Lourey will speak briefly at the Little Falls Memorial Day observance Sunday, May 28, with music at 1:30 p.m. and program at 2 p.m., at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, 15550 Highway 115, located near Camp Ripley.

In addition, Lourey will be one of the keynote speakers at the Proctor Memorial Day service Monday, May 29, 10 a.m., at the Proctor Community Center, 100 Pionk Drive in Proctor. The theme of this year’s observance is “Remember Fallen Family.”

With the goal of achieving peace as the theme, Becky Lourey will host a film showing of the 2004 documentary “Arlington West” exploring in-depth the personal costs of war, Thursday, June 1 at the Riverview Theater, 3800 42nd Ave. S., in Minneapolis. Accompanied by several Minnesotans active in the peace community, the evening’s master of ceremonies will be Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer, associate professor of Justice and Peace Studies at the University of Saint Thomas. The event begins at 6:30 p.m.; admission to the film is $10.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Pulse publisher praises Lourey health care plan
‘The most comprehensive, practical proposal’
May 19, 2006

The Health Care Security Plan offered by candidate for Governor Becky Lourey received strong praise in a critical analysis offered this week by Pulse alternative newspaper publisher Ed Felien.

In the compare-and-contrast piece, Felien stated: “Becky Lourey staked out the high ground early. She has been clear in her support of a single payer system through expansion of MinnesotaCare. This would be a gradual expansion that would create the least disruption and crunch on the State treasury. It would allow Minnesota corporations and small businesses to offer MinnesotaCare to their employees. This is the most comprehensive, practical proposal of any of the candidates.”

“It is very gratifying to receive wholehearted support for my health care plan from Ed Felien and the Pulse newspaper,” Lourey said. “My realistic plan will lower costs and can bring us to universal health care by 2010. As people look closely at my Health Care Security Plan, they invariably conclude that I am very serious about effective health care reform and cost control.”

In his analysis of Sen. Lourey’s health care advocacy this year, Felien commented, “It is difficult to see what else she could have done with an antagonistic Republican governor and a hostile Republican House. There was no hope for any changes in health care reform this session, but there will always be some that won’t be satisfied until our champions have hurled themselves on the barricades and been blasted away by cannon balls.”

Senator Becky Lourey resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee. Her full Health Care Security Plan is available here.

Veterans Caucus Endorsements for Governor and 2nd Congressional District: Lourey and Rowley
May 13, 2006

On Friday, May 5th, the DFL Veterans Caucus Screening and Endorsement Committee made its decision to endorse Becky Lourey for Governor of Minnesota and Coleen Rowley for U.S. House, 2nd Congressional District.

State Senator Lourey has demonstrated ample knowledge of and concern for the vital interests of veterans, active military personnel, and their families. She has been active as a member of the Senate Agriculture, Veterans Affairs and Gaming Committee in serving those interests. She offers a proven record of veterans advocacy to back up her commitment to continue addressing their needs. And she understands the demands that will be felt by state agencies and resources as numbers of Iraq and Afghanistan vets return home to Minnesota. One member of the Screening and Endorsement Committee, Guy Gambill, who had seen Sen. Lourey at work on veterans' healthcare issues had this to say: “I deal with the 88th [Regional Readiness Command] and 934th [Air Lift Wing] regularly, sit on MACV's [Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans] Board, go weekly to both the VAMC and deal with the MVH almost daily. Haven't seen anyone from the DFL involved with any of these organizations--excepting Becky.”

We don't see how Minnesota veterans could do better than to have a friend like Becky Lourey in the highest position in state government. And we're thrilled to endorse her for that office. To read her responses to the screening questionnaire, go to http://mndflvets.org/candidates/pdfs/becky_lourey_sur.pdf and please visit her campaign website at BeckyLourey.org.

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey will be appearing throughout May on community cable television shows on the Twin Cities regional network, as well as in the cities of Minneapolis, Burnsville and Eagan.

Lourey will appear on the Judy Corrao Show (http://producers.mtn.org/judycorrao) interviewed by Corrao on Twin Cities Metro Cable Network Channel 6 (MCN-6) and Minneapolis Television Network Channel 16 (MTN-16). The regional MCN-6 show will air at 7:30 p.m. both on Thursday, May 11 and Thursday, May 18. The Minneapolis showings on MTN-16 can be seen at 9 p.m. both on Wednesday, May 17 and Wednesday, May 24. Corrao is a former Minneapolis City Council member. Her public affairs show features a broad array of issues of concern to women and family, public policy, art, film and politics.

Lourey also can be seen on Burnsville/Eagan Community Television (www.bect.tv) Channel 15 this month. She will appear on the Access to Democracy show Wednesday, May 17 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, May 21 at 8 p.m. Other rebroadcasts of the show are likely to be scheduled later. Visit www.bect.tv for an updated schedule of listings.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

A unique gathering of Minnesota Latino leaders and community supporters - including candidate for Governor Becky Lourey - is set for Tuesday, April 25.

Scheduled for 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at El Nuevo de Rodeo nightclub, 2709 E. Lake St. in Minneapolis, the event highlights the growing diversity and changing social, cultural and political dynamics throughout Minnesota.

“We will celebrate the coming together of diverse communities, unified by our common vision for a more-prosperous and culturally enriched state of Minnesota,” Lourey said. “Our state can move forward again by overcoming the politics of fear and division. Throughout our history, Minnesota owes its economic strength and rich heritage to the newcomers who have come here.”

The event is co-hosted by more than 40 leaders from business, non-profit, philanthropy, labor, faith-based and other grassroots community groups. Political candidates and community organizers will make brief presentations throughout the evening. At 6:15 p.m., Danza Cuahtemoc will perform traditional Aztec dancing.

Among political candidates and officeholders participating are District 65B State Rep. Carlos Mariani, Ramsey County Commissioner Rafael Ortega, Fifth District Congressional candidate Jorge Saavedra, and DFL-endorsed Senate District 62 candidate Patricia Torres Ray. Campaign donations for the candidates and officeholders attending the event will be accepted.

Earlier this year Becky Lourey was the first Democratic candidate for Governor to formulate a constructive immigration response to the failing, divisive approach taken by Republicans. With the assistance of immigrants and experts in the field, Sen. Lourey developed the New Minnesotans’ Security and Growth Plan. The Lourey immigration policy is available in English and Spanish by following this link.

Becky Lourey, DFL candidate for Governor, announced today that with approximately one-third of the delegates selected to the DFL state convention, she is leading all other candidates in the delegate race for Governor.

"It is still very early in the delegate race, but I am very pleased with the results so far," Lourey said. "At every convention I attend across the state, DFLers are really enthused and supportive of my candidacy. People are looking for real change. They want to scrap the status quo, and vote for a leader who has conviction to get our state headed back in the right direction. I am that candidate, and delegates are responding."

The Lourey campaign released a spreadsheet identifying the statewide count of delegate preferences showing State Senator Lourey with support from 132 delegates followed by Attorney General Hatch with 130 and State Senator Steve Kelley running third with 86. This count is comprehensive, including Senate districts and county convention units where no subcaucusing took place.

"The most important thing to notice in the delegate count so far," said Lourey campaign spokesperson John Blackshaw, "is Senator Lourey's support is statewide. Not all of the other candidates can claim that fact. And anybody who counts delegates will tell you, candidates without statewide support cannot win a statewide election let alone a convention endorsement."

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 16 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

An unusual kind of campaign get-together has been scheduled by DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey in Mendota Heights. Celebrating our cultural diversity is the theme of the event, which is scheduled for Sunday, March 19 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the home of Jon Gutzmann and Masami Suga.

(Left to right) Masami Suga, candidate Becky Lourey, Lourey for Governor Development Manager Brenda Bell Brown and Felisha Rhodes hope to attract a crowd to the March 19 event celebrating cultural diversity in Mendota Heights.

Joining Suga as co-hosts of the house party are Felisha Rhodes and Kaying Hang.
Several members of the diverse Lourey family are expected to attend the house party, celebrating in the campaign’s commitment to cultural diversity. This is the first event involving the Lourey family since the November campaign kick-off at the family’s business in Bruno. Gene and Becky Lourey have a multi-ethnic family resulting from the adoption of eight children.

“Every member of our family is deeply committed to bringing cultures together and celebrating the diversity in Minnesota,” Lourey said. “This event is extremely important to us, and we hope to have a good turnout.”

The March 19 house party will be held at the home of Jon Gutzmann and Masami Suga, 614 Sutcliff Circle, Mendota Heights. The event is open to the public. The hosts of the event would appreciate it if you RSVP by email at masamisuga@edinarealty.com, or by phone at 612-599-0900.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey will be visiting four precinct caucus sites in St. Paul and nearby suburbs Tuesday night, March 7. Locations and approximate appearance times are:

* Como Park High School, 740 Rose Ave.W., St. Paul -- 6:30-6:55 p.m. (District 66B);

* Arlington High School, 1495 Rice St., St. Paul -- 7-7:15 p.m. (District 66A);

* Roseville High School, 1240 W. County Road B-2, Roseville -- 7:25-8:10 p.m. (District 54); and

* North St. Paul-Maplewood High School, 2416 E. 11th Ave., North St. Paul -- 8:25-9 p.m. (District 55).

Please contact Press Secretary Jim Robins at 612-597-0214 if you have any questions prior to Tuesday evening. Senator Lourey will be reachable by contacting staff member Kavi Turnbull at 763-350-1576 during her visits to the caucus sites.

The campaign website of Becky Lourey for Governor gained national recognition Tuesday as “Site of the Day” from the widely read nonpartisan U.S. political guide www.Politics1.com.

Designed and maintained by David Krewinghaus of Minneapolis, the Lourey for Governor website is www.beckylourey.org.

“We recognize that the Internet is a key to early campaign success, and we’ve put together a lively and informative site,” Lourey said. “The site changes constantly, so I encourage people to bookmark it, and visit regularly.”

Florida-based www.Politics1.com is operated by Ron Gunzburger. “Some candidates, campaigns and groups truly get the concept of using the Internet as a tool to effectively convey messages, promote increased citizen involvement, enhance voter education, and effectively and innovatively use technology to advance their causes,” Gunzburger stated in the Feb. 28 award announcement. “We created this award to recognize deserving sites from all states, and at all levels of campaigns, ranging across the ideological spectrum.”

Sen. Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota.  She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Eighth District Congressman Jim Oberstar announced today (Feb. 23) his endorsement of Becky Lourey in her bid for Governor.

“Becky Lourey personifies personal integrity, commitment to service in the public interest, lives her beliefs, and has the energy and enthusiasm for success,” Oberstar said.
The announcement was made at the city library in Wyoming, Minn. along the Rush Line transportation corridor -- a project Becky Lourey fought for and got funded last year in the Minnesota state bonding bill.

“Her campaign will lift the spirits of the Democratic Party and infuse energy into the transformational campaign ahead. Becky will renew state government and reaffirm Minnesota values in the Governor’s office and state legislature.”
Congressman Oberstar further noted that he has worked together closely with Senator Lourey on public policy, constituent service and federal-state relations for more than 15 years.

“It is a tremendous honor to receive this key endorsement from Congressman Jim Oberstar who not only represents me, but advocates so effectively for Minnesota’s interests,” Lourey said. “Based on our past experiences, I know we will make a great team at the state and federal levels on behalf of every Minnesotan.”

Sen. Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota.  She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey will receive a major endorsement from a Minnesota elected official tomorrow (Thursday, Feb. 23) at 1 p.m. The press conference will be held at the Wyoming City Library, 26855 Forest Blvd., Wyoming, Minn.

This endorsement comes at a time when the Becky Lourey for Governor campaign is in the midst of a major Northern Minnesota outreach effort. On the following day, Senator Lourey will hold a Grand Opening event for her new downtown Duluth office on Friday, Feb. 24 from 4 to 6 p.m. The director for the new office is Duluth resident Kerry Gauthier, who also serves as Treasurer of the Minnesota DFL Party. The Becky Lourey for Governor Duluth office is located at Suite 242 Holiday Center, 202 W. Superior St., Duluth, Minn. 55802; telephone 218-722-1652.

Sen. Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota.  She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

A competition-oriented, business-friendly transformation of the health care system was announced today (Feb. 21) by Minnesota candidate for Governor Becky Lourey.  Designed to move Minnesota to universal health care coverage by 2010, the Lourey Health Care Security Plan already has drawn praise from a major health care advocacy group.

“Today, we are further from universal health care access than we were yesterday, or three years ago when Tim Pawlenty took office,” Lourey said.  “I’m here to change that.  I’m here to bring universal health care coverage to Minnesota.”   

The detailed, 10-point Lourey plan announced at a State Capitol press conference will give Minnesota businesses viable new options to lower their health care premiums and cost-containment strategies.

Although the Minnesota Universal Health Care Coalition advocates primarily for adoption of the single payer approach, the group that praises the Lourey plan for its promise of “genuine relief to small businesses and low-income people.”  Rhoda Gilman of the Coalition was on hand for announcement of the Lourey HealthCare Security Plan.

“It is time to elect a Governor who can look every child, every senior, every family and every business proprietor in the eye, and say, ‘I am doing everything I can as your Governor to change our health care system to meet your needs,’” Lourey said.  “The current Governor cannot say this.  We need a governor who will fight for affordable and accessible universal health care coverage for every individual and every business. We can no longer tolerate a governor who leads by maintaining the status quo or holds press conferences that result in no action.”

After consulting with a policy roundtable of experts and stakeholders, Senator Lourey built the Health Care Security Plan on five key values and principles:

• ACCESS – All Minnesotans deserve access to quality care without regard to income.

• AFFORDABILITY – Prevention, early intervention and cost efficiencies through bulk purchasing and reduced paperwork will rein in costs, making health care more affordable for all stakeholders – individuals, businesses and government.

• QUALITY – An adequate supply of qualified health professionals, facilities and services will guarantee timely access to quality care, bolstered by Minnesota’s leadership in medical research, education and technological innovation.

• CHOICE – Patients will have the choice of their own providers.  Doctors and patients will be empowered to decide on appropriate medical treatments.  Choices in health plans will be expanded, and kept readily available through seamless portability.

• COOPERATION – The system must work for all stakeholders – with families, businesses, medical providers and government having a role in successfully transforming health care in Minnesota.

Major elements of the 10-point Lourey Health Care Security Plan include four elements of a Policy Framework for Change and six specific program reforms.  Details of the Lourey plan can be found in a 16-page policy document and a one-page overview posted here.  

Sen. Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota.  She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey will release next week her plan for a competition-oriented, business-friendly transformation of the health care system that moves Minnesota to universal health care coverage by 2010. The detailed Lourey plan will give Minnesota businesses viable new options to lower their health care premiums and includes other cost-containment strategies.

The Lourey plan to transform health care will be unveiled Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. in State Capitol Room 125.

Senator Becky Lourey, DFL candidate for Governor, announced today (Feb. 15) a comprehensive immigration plan addressing public safety, economic development and education. Titled the “New Minnesotans Security and Growth Plan,” the plan creates opportunities for success as well as promotes economic growth in Minnesota.

“With this package we offer a vision and hope for the future for our growing immigrant communities and state in sharp contrast to the policies of fear and division offered by Governor Pawlenty. This comprehensive, positive immigration plan will not only help to bring all communities together and enrich our state culturally, but can infuse millions of dollars into the Minnesota economy,” Lourey said.

“We are a state of immigrants. Many of our parents and grandparents came to this country and to Minnesota specifically to achieve the American dream,” Lourey continued. “Our new immigrant families want to do the same. We need to eliminate the barriers for achieving success, not promote policies that divide us and make us less safe.”

The 10-point policy was unveiled at the Lourey Immigration Open Forum Wednesday at the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center on the West Side of St. Paul. The forum was moderated by Jorge Saavedra F., attorney and policy consultant. An audience question and answer period followed the Lourey interview.

Features of the policy include:
• Supporting and upholding all current and future Police/Immigration separation agreements.
• Establishing a Minnesota Office of Immigrant Affairs and a Joint Legislative Immigrant Refugee Policy Task Force.
• Establishing a Minnesota Trade Office in Mexico to foster greater trade opportunities between Minnesota and Mexico.
• State recognition of the Matricula Consular for procuring driver’s licenses, library cards and other documents.
• Signing the Dream Act into law providing in-state higher education tuition rates to all immigrants who attended public schools in Minnesota; and
• Removing the five-year cap on teaching of English as a Second Language in Minnesota public schools.

Noting the importance of establishing a trade office in Mexico, Lourey said, “Wisconsin has operated a trade office in Mexico for several years, fostering $946 million in state exports. That’s nearly double the Minnesota to Mexico exports in 2004.

“Just think of the jobs we could bring to Minnesota if we added $450 million in trade with our neighbors in Mexico,” Lourey said. “Stronger economic ties and a better cultural understanding can move Minnesota forward rather than hold us back. Generations of immigration have always strengthened Minnesota in the past, and I see no rational purpose to leave that tradition behind.”

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

An open forum addressing Minnesota immigration concerns sponsored by candidate for Governor Becky Lourey is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul. Jorge Saavedra F., attorney and policy consultant, will serve as interviewer and moderator of the forum.

All ethnic groups are encouraged to participate in the immigration open forum. Sen. Lourey will be interviewed by Mr. Saavedra, contrasting her immigration views and proposals with those of Governor Pawlenty. After the interview, anyone interested in immigration issues is invited to comment and ask questions at the forum.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

Candidate for Governor Becky Lourey announced today she is holding an open forum on Minnesota immigration concerns on Wednesday, Feb. 15 to be held on the West Side of St. Paul.

The open forum will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E. Jorge Saavedra F., attorney and policy consultant, will serve as interviewer and moderator of the forum.

“We have an opportunity to put the spotlight on Minnesota immigration in a positive and constructive way,” Lourey said. “Rather than dividing people based on cultural and immigration status differences, we can formulate strategies to bring people together and harness the greatest potential for families, businesses and entire communities.”

All ethnic groups are encouraged to participate in the immigration open forum. For more information regarding the forum, please call the Becky Lourey for Governor campaign at 651-917-8400 or toll-free at 877-217-8400, or visit www.beckylourey.org.

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey today (Jan. 31) released her 2005 year-end financial report indicating $63,174 raised in the less than seven weeks since Nov. 15 when she announced her campaign. Lourey also announced campaign expenditures of $54,171 and a campaign balance of $9,003 on hand as of Dec. 31, 2005.

“We are extremely pleased with our initial performance. We’ve raised funds of nearly $10,000 a week since the day I announced even though we were competing with the entire holiday season when political donations traditionally are slow,” Lourey said. “And to date in 2006 our fundraising continues at a very good rate. The response from people has been exciting. People really believe in me and my candidacy.”

Sen. Lourey announced her bid for Governor on Nov. 15, 2005, and is challenging three other candidates in the DFL primary campaign office and establishing a support network.

“Fundraising is only one of the keys to our campaign success,” Lourey said. “We have a very strong network of volunteers, an experienced staff, and we’re building a far-reaching field operation that will make the difference at the DFL convention, and when we face the voters in September and November.”

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey today (Thursday) called for improved emergency preparedness and rapid completion of the state public safety radio system. Lourey was responding to the immediate threat to the United States presented by Osama bin Laden in his audiotape release.

“Although the threat was not specific to Minnesota, we must examine our state’s ability to respond in a crisis situation,” Lourey said.

“When it comes to hospital emergency rooms, protecting our water supply and safeguarding our nuclear plants, our state is long overdue in examining our emergency response preparedness plans,” Lourey said. In 2006, as chair of the Senate Health Committee, Lourey authored the All Hazards Emergency Response Act and updated Isolation and Quarantine Authority powers that could be used to respond to biological attack or pandemic.

“We not only need to review our plans, but we should be conducting emergency response simulations so that we can react quickly and effectively to a terrorist attack or other mass emergency.” Lourey said.

“Our most glaring shortcoming in Minnesota emergency response is the lack of a statewide public safety system,” Lourey said. Many rural areas waiting for a modern communications system to connect emergency responders. “Our international border and many other rural areas remain vulnerable as a result. Gov. Pawlenty should use his White House connections to help us complete this vital public safety radio system.”

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, has 15 years of legislative experience and resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota.

DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey today sharply criticized the Pawlenty administration’s offer to state workers for only half of the compensation lost due to the state government shutdown in July 2005. An estimated 9,000 workers lost pay due to the impasse, but a far greater number of state employees lost vacation time.

“The inability of the governor and legislators to reach agreement was to blame, so docking 50 percent of the pay for workers who had nothing to do with the impasse is terribly unfair,” Lourey said. “Ultimately, this decision will cost the state more than the dollars saved now because workers are frustrated with this result and will carry their resentment into the next round of negotiations.”

Lourey also expressed concern about the precedence set by an offer that reduces state payroll costs. “What prevents Tim Pawlenty from claiming that his decision to force a shutdown lowered the cost of state pay, so we have even less of an incentive to get our negotiations job done on time?” Lourey said. “As a state, we cannot reach our goals by constantly relying on brinkmanship. The tone will change when I reach office.”

Senator Becky Lourey, a nationally recognized health care public policy expert, resides in Kerrick in east-central Minnesota. She has 15 years of legislative experience and currently serves as chair of the Minnesota Senate Health and Family Security Committee.

DFL candidate for Governor Becky Lourey has announced today the hiring of several high-profile campaign staffers. Among the staff hired are Campaign Manager Joseph Barisonzi, strategist and consultant John Blackshaw, Field Director Elizabeth Dickinson, Fundraising Director Aileen Seoane and Political Director Eric Mitchell.

“We have assembled a blue-chip staff of dedicated professionals who bring a diverse range of talents to this effort,” Lourey said. “Our campaign staff is drawn from a broad array of constituencies and includes strong statewide geographic representation. We are especially encouraged by the tremendous grassroots volunteer base we have established so early in our campaign.”

Joseph Barisonzi, CEO of Strategic Growth Initiatives, has extensive experience in social-entrepreneurial business development and community organizing. Barizonsi campaign experience includes national, state and local campaigns. Former Director of the award-winning Lyndale Neighborhood Association, Barisonzi was named the top Community Leader Under 30 in 1997 and accepted the 1998 NUSA Neighborhood of the Year on behalf of his organization.

John Blackshaw, CEO of Williams Blackshaw Group, was campaign manager for Paul Wellstone’s successful 1990 U.S. Senate campaign bid, and served as the original Chief of Staff for Wellstone in the Senate. Active on numerous local and national nonprofit boards, Blackshaw most recently served as campaign manager for Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak’s successful re-election bid.

Elizabeth Dickinson is a community activist, former Community Affairs Manager/Lobbyist for the Minnesota AIDS Project, former co-chair of the St. Paul Green Party, a board member of Clean Water Action, and was recently named a “Changemaker of the Year” by the Minnesota Women’s Press. She holds memberships in three performing arts unions.

Aileen Seoane brings experience most recently as Grants Administrator and Communications Manager for the Latino Economic Development Center and she previously was Program Coordinator for the Neighborhood Development Center in St. Paul. Her volunteer activities include currently serving on the El Fondo de Nuestra Comunidad of the Saint Paul Foundation and she has managed a successful DFL legislative campaign.