Brook Park, MN - Michael Cummins of Brook Park will challenge Jim Oberstar in the 8th District of Minnesota. The District spans most of eastern and all of northeastern Minnesota including Duluth, the entire Iron Range International Falls and Brainerd. Mr. Cummins said that "It is clear from our unmet needs that Oberstar is once again ignoring the people of the 8th District with his votes in Washington and his unwillingness to hold town meetings."
Because "Mr. Oberstar, does not maintain a residence in the 8th District, he has lost touch with the issues that matter to the residents here", according to Cummins. Specifically, he says, "In the last election there was good evidence that Mr. Oberstar's voting record didn't reflect the best interest of our District; now there's no question whatsoever. From Cap and Trade to the thinly disguised Government takeover of health care, we need change in Washington, but it needs to be change that will make a difference for all the American people, not simply for the elite few. The voters are the only people that Mr. Oberstar should be interested in. Major issues are spinning out of control in Washington and the need for a change of course is greater than ever."
Cummins, who will seek GOP endorsement, brings a wealth of real-world experience to some of our country's most serious issues, ranging from the workable energy options and infrastructure deterioration to the current real estate value crisis and the need to conserve our natural and historic treasures. As the owner of a building construction company, Mr. Cummins specializes in remodeling projects using energy efficient products and technologies. As a designated EcoBroker, he brings hands-on knowledge to our country's housing crisis. As a lifelong outdoorsman, he has a deep love of the outdoors and a firm grasp of practical means that can protect it for future generations. He considers himself a "productive environmentalist" who opposes draconian federal control over local resources.
Michael and his wife, Jan, live on 80 acres northwest of Pine City, Minnesota, with their three children: Dan (20, now serving in the U.S. Army), Sam (17), and Abigail (14). The family owns a Christian Retreat Center in central Minnesota for the use of organizations that work with inner city and rural ministries.
According to Mr. Cummins, "Mr. Oberstar is so focused on appealing to certain special interests that he is not in tune with his constituents. Since he held no town meetings during the Congressional recess and was unwilling to debate me in the last election, I once again challenge Mr. Oberstar to a series of debates on today's critical issues where he can attempt to explain his Congressional votes.
