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Anzelc to seek re-election in House District 3A

BALSAM TOWNSHIP (June 26, 2008) – State Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL-Balsam) announces his bid for re-election in House District 3A, representing Itasca, Koochiching and Lake of the Woods counties.

“It’s been an honor to serve the people of northern Minnesota these last two years,” said Anzelc. “We got a lot done, but there’s work left and I want to finish what I started.”

Anzelc was endorsed unanimously for re-election by DFL delegates last spring. He is finishing his first term in the Minnesota House of Representatives after a career in labor advocacy, public service and teaching.

“When I first decided to run, I said I would stand up for the people of northern Minnesota and that I wouldn’t march in lockstep with anyone for political reasons,” said Anzelc. “I’ve been independent, but I’ve also been true to my progressive labor roots.”

Anzelc was the primary author of the bonding bill that funds infrastructure for Minnesota Steel near Nashwauk. The innovative mining and steel making facility is due to break ground this summer.

“I like economic development that is smart and bold,” said Anzlec. “From Minnesota Steel to the exciting new magnetization process being developed near Keewatin and the enormous expansion at Keewatin Taconite, we’ve proven that we can create jobs by supporting public infrastructure and projects that make sense.”

Anzelc said he’s running again to ensure that people in border country have a strong voice.

“We may live in a remote part of Minnesota, but we deserve to be heard and we deserve good government,” said Anzelc. “I have worked hard to be the people’s voice for border country, whether in economic development, reform for wetlands laws, tourism and resorts, or in how we care for people in need.”

Anzelc serves on the K-12 Finance committee and has fought for adequate funding for Itasca County school districts. In addition, he chief authored a bill that demands accountability and standards for online high school courses.

“As the son of a miner, I’ll never forget the important role public schools played in my life,” said Anzelc. “Our northern Minnesota schools must always help our kids move up in life. Lately, local schools have been struggling, but I am never going to give up on our kids and teachers.”

One of Anzelc’s priorities, highway improvements throughout District 3A, saw significant progress during his first term.

“We live in a big district with a lot of rural areas, so safe, efficient highways are very important to the people who live here,” said Anzelc. “My vote to override the governor and pass the transportation bill moved up the expansion and completion of Highway 169 by more than a decade on the MNDOT priority list.”

He’s also worked hard to protect the public by fighting to get bonding funds to mitigate and dewater the Canisteo Pit near Bovey, which has long been considered a major flood risk.

Anzelc has sought common sense policy to protect the balance between nature and the people who live here.

“I’ve advocated for public recreational land use for everyone,” said Anzelc. “At the same time I’ve looked to save our environment for future enjoyment by our kids and grandkids. And I’m proud of my support for sound forestry through the Forest Legacy Act.”

Anzelc has also maintained his support for northern Minnesota values like hunting and fishing rights, the Second Amendment and rewarding hard work.

“When I go to St. Paul, I always remember where I’m from and who I work for,” said Anzelc. “Public service is my life.”