Brian 2008

Widespread Panic: A personal health care story

2009-10-07T21:39:00.001-04:00

Widespread Panic: A personal health care story

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The Cap and Tax Fiction

2009-06-25T14:14:00.003-04:00

Democrats off-loading economics to pass climate change bill.

From the Wall Street Journal editorial page, June 26, 2009

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has put cap-and-trade legislation on a forced march through the House, and the bill may get a full vote as early as Friday. It looks as if the Democrats will have to destroy the discipline of economics to get it done.

Despite House Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman's many payoffs to Members, rural and Blue Dog Democrats remain wary of voting for a bill that will impose crushing costs on their home-district businesses and consumers. The leadership's solution to this problem is to simply claim the bill defies the laws of economics.

Their gambit got a boost this week, when the Congressional Budget Office did an analysis of what has come to be known as the Waxman-Markey bill. According to the CBO, the climate legislation would cost the average household only $175 a year by 2020. Edward Markey, Mr. Waxman's co-author, instantly set to crowing that the cost of upending the entire energy economy would be no more than a postage stamp a day for the average household. Amazing. A closer look at the CBO analysis finds that it contains so many caveats as to render it useless.

For starters, the CBO estimate is a one-year snapshot of taxes that will extend to infinity. Under a cap-and-trade system, government sets a cap on the total amount of carbon that can be emitted nationally; companies then buy or sell permits to emit CO2. The cap gets cranked down over time to reduce total carbon emissions.

To get support for his bill, Mr. Waxman was forced to water down the cap in early years to please rural Democrats, and then severely ratchet it up in later years to please liberal Democrats. The CBO's analysis looks solely at the year 2020, before most of the tough restrictions kick in. As the cap is tightened and companies are stripped of initial opportunities to "offset" their emissions, the price of permits will skyrocket beyond the CBO estimate of $28 per ton of carbon. The corporate costs of buying these expensive permits will be passed to consumers.

The biggest doozy in the CBO analysis was its extraordinary decision to look only at the day-to-day costs of operating a trading program, rather than the wider consequences energy restriction would have on the economy. The CBO acknowledges this in a footnote: "The resource cost does not indicate the potential decrease in gross domestic product (GDP) that could result from the cap."

The hit to GDP is the real threat in this bill. The whole point of cap and trade is to hike the price of electricity and gas so that Americans will use less. These higher prices will show up not just in electricity bills or at the gas station but in every manufactured good, from food to cars. Consumers will cut back on spending, which in turn will cut back on production, which results in fewer jobs created or higher unemployment. Some companies will instead move their operations overseas, with the same result.

When the Heritage Foundation did its analysis of Waxman-Markey, it broadly compared the economy with and without the carbon tax. Under this more comprehensive scenario, it found Waxman-Markey would cost the economy $161 billion in 2020, which is $1,870 for a family of four. As the bill's restrictions kick in, that number rises to $6,800 for a family of four by 2035.
Note also that the CBO analysis is an average for the country as a whole. It doesn't take into account the fact that certain regions and populations will be more severely hit than others -- manufacturing states more than service states; coal producing states more than states that rely on hydro or natural gas. Low-income Americans, who devote more of their disposable income to energy, have more to lose than high-income families.

Even as Democrats have promised that this cap-and-trade legislation won't pinch wallets, behind the scenes they've acknowledged the energy price tsunami that is coming. During the brief few days in which the bill was debated in the House Energy Committee, Republicans offered three amendments: one to suspend the program if gas hit $5 a gallon; one to suspend the program if electricity prices rose 10% over 2009; and one to suspend the program if unemployment rates hit 15%. Democrats defeated all of them.

The reality is that cost estimates for climate legislation are as unreliable as the models predicting climate change. What comes out of the computer is a function of what politicians type in. A better indicator might be what other countries are already experiencing. Britain's Taxpayer Alliance estimates the average family there is paying nearly $1,300 a year in green taxes for carbon-cutting programs in effect only a few years.

Americans should know that those Members who vote for this climate bill are voting for what is likely to be the biggest tax in American history. Even Democrats can't repeal that reality.

Republicans' Road Back: Washington Post

2008-11-07T18:23:00.004-04:00

By John BoehnerFriday
November 7, 2008

While Republicans are disappointed by Tuesday's results, we respect the American people's decision and pledge to work with President-elect Barack Obama when it is in the best interest of our nation. Some Democrats and pundits may want to read Tuesday's results as a repudiation of conservatism -- a sign that Republicans should give Democrats on both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue a free ride. I don't see it that way, and neither should Republicans across the country.

The next four years are critical to the future of our families, our economy and our country, and we have a responsibility to rebuild our party by fighting for the principles of freedom, opportunity, security and individual liberty -- the principles upon which the GOP was founded. Recommitting ourselves to these principles means two things: vigorously fighting a far-left agenda that is out of step with the wishes of the vast majority of Americans and, more important, promoting superior Republican alternatives that prove that we offer a better vision for our country's future.

America is still a center-right country. This election was neither a referendum in favor of the left's approach to key issues nor a mandate for big government. Obama campaigned by masking liberal policies with moderate rhetoric to make his agenda more palatable to voters. Soon he will seek to advance these policies through a Congress that was purchased by liberal special interests such as unions, trial lawyers and radical environmentalists, and he'll have a fight on his hands when he does so.

In record numbers, Americans voted on Tuesday for a skillful presidential nominee promising change, but "change" should not be confused with a license to raise taxes, drive up wasteful government spending, weaken our security, or give more power to Washington, Big Labor bosses and the trial bar. Americans did not vote for higher taxes to fund a redistribution of wealth; drastic cuts in funding for our troops; the end of secret ballots for workers participating in union elections; more costly obstacles to American energy production; or the imposition of government-run health care on employers and working families.

Republicans have a responsibility to offer a better way. We must reaffirm Americans' faith in our party by reminding them why ours traditionally has been a party of reform rooted in freedom and security. This will not happen overnight. We must make the case one issue at a time, offering solutions to our country's biggest challenges to earn back the American people's trust and rebuild our majority.

Our most immediate challenge is creating new jobs and getting our economy moving in the right direction again. While Republicans have put forward a plan for economic growth and job creation, congressional Democrats are proposing hundreds of billions of dollars in new government spending masquerading as "economic stimulus." To rebuild 401(k) plans and keep jobs here at home, we'll offer tax relief for families and small businesses. And to lower fuel costs and create as many as a million new jobs, we'll offer a comprehensive plan for more American energy.

We'll also offer health-care reforms that empower patients and doctors, promote a strong military that keeps us on offense to protect the American people, and demand fiscal and ethical reforms to fix a broken Washington tarnished by scandals on both sides of the aisle. We have a responsibility to the American people to make sure our ideals are heard, and we expect these to be vigorous debates.

I wasn't born a Republican. I grew up outside Cincinnati as one of 12 children. Our dad ran a bar. I became a Republican because I believe that if you work hard and believe in yourself, there is nothing you can't achieve. That's the American dream. And I look forward to leading Republicans in fighting for it. If we return to our roots, to our belief in freedom, opportunity, security and individual liberty, our party will come back stronger than ever.

In Congress, Republicans will work across party lines to find solutions to the immense challenges that confront our nation. But we'll also stand firmly against policies that violate our principles -- the same principles held by the vast majority of American families. We Republicans must renew our nation's trust in us by offering better alternatives rooted in the reforms that define our party and by fighting for the American dream.

The writer, a congressman from Ohio's 8th District, is the House Republican leader.

Davis brings health care expertise to race: Mankato Free Press

2008-11-01T20:38:00.002-04:00

By Mark FischenichThe Free Press
October 30, 2008 08:49 pm

Dr. Brian Davis has a professional resume that just doesn’t quit.

There’s the degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Illinois and the work in nuclear power plant design and radioactive waste management. There are the master’s and doctoral degrees in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

There’s the medical degree from the University of Illinois and the oncology practice at the Mayo Clinic.

Davis jokes that when his parents encouraged him to get a college education, he went a bit overboard. But the Illinois native also notes the work he did to earn money for college, including jobs as a furniture mover and janitor.

While Davis believes his background would be useful as the nation faces important energy and health-care decisions, he hasn’t made his biography a central part of his campaign. There is one skill he’s developed as a specialist in cancer treatment he believes would be helpful on a broader level if he’s elected.

He talks of the many times he’s gone into a room where a cancer patient and family members are waiting, tries to put them at ease and then discusses the sometimes tough choices they face.

“It does put things in perspective and also puts me in a position where I need to explain difficult things,” Davis said. “And I think when you’re running for office, you are put in a position where you have to answer a lot of questions in front of a lot of people.”

New to politics

Davis’ political experience is as shallow as his educational and professional background is deep.
A resident of Minnesota for a dozen years, he first became active in Republican politics when he began thinking of running against Walz. Generally pleased with the representation he’d received from Republican Congressman Gil Gutknecht (who Walz defeated, ending a 12-year-run in the House), Davis didn’t like the direction the new Democratic majority was headed in 2007.

Despite his inexperience, Davis knocked off two veteran Republican state lawmakers in the GOP endorsement process and in the September primary election. He raised more than $1 million in campaign donations, although more than $300,000 was in the form of loans and contributions he made personally.

Described as “a brilliant guy” who is “also deeply conservative” by John Hinderaker, one of the founders of the influential conservative Web log Power Line, Davis doesn’t comment on the “brilliant” part but agrees with the description of his political philosophy.

He’s an opponent of abortion and gay marriage, is doubtful that fossil fuel consumption is the primary reason for global climate change and opposes embryonic stem cell research. He wants to make the Bush tax cuts permanent, would like to eliminate the estate tax and would be interested in studying a nationwide sales tax as a replacement for income taxes.

Davis doesn’t expect a majority of voters in the 1st District agree with him on all of those stances, but he’s confident he can win the race.“Minnesota is a great place, and a lot of people look at the candidates for who they are,” he said. “And they may not agree with them on every issue, but they feel they can trust that person to be straight with them.”

A new direction

With too few exceptions, Walz has been a loyal supporter of the Democratic leadership of the House, Davis said.“What we were told in 2006 is that we were going to see an independent voice. We haven’t seen that from Mr. Walz.”

Walz bucked his leadership on gun issues, the No Child Left Behind education plan and on the $700 billion bailout of the financial services industry — but not much else, Davis said.

“And when it comes to the votes on Iraq, he hasn’t always been there — I would argue — in terms of supporting the mission.”

Much of Davis’ campaign has centered on oil drilling. Davis supports virtually unlimited access for the oil companies to federal waters and lands, including in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. He condemns Walz for initially opposing expanded offshore drilling, although Walz later joined a coalition of Democrats and Republicans who developed a compromise plan that received 179 Republican votes (about 90 percent of all Republicans) in the House earlier this fall.But the delay was a costly one, Davis said.

“That preceded our financial crisis, and the two are very much related,” he said. “I think it’s difficult to deny that that precipitated our financial crisis. And that’s where we differ.”

Davis adds that the bursting of the housing bubble and the reckless lending practices of financial institutions also played a role.

Criticisms

The Walz campaign and the Democratic Party have criticized Davis’ positions on Social Security and taxes, in both cases not telling the complete story.

Because Davis would consider partial privatization of Social Security, a Walz ad has said Davis supports “cutting guaranteed benefits.”

The basis of the accusation is that Davis would undermine the financial viability of the system because younger workers would be able to divert money to private accounts.

Davis notes the long-term solvency of the Social Security system is in doubt even if no changes are made and that Walz is offering no specifics on how he would fix the problem.Another criticism — this one from the DFL Party — suggests Davis wants to institute a 23 percent nationwide sales tax. Davis said the flier fails to mention he only supports studying the idea of a flat tax and that it would be intended as a replacement of — not in addition to — existing federal taxes.

He also disputes suggestions the Bush tax cuts favor the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans.

“That is not true,” Davis said. “And there’s a lot of rhetoric geared toward the politics of envy and class warfare.”

Davis doesn’t give a direct answer when asked if he supports the current progressive income tax, which taxes higher income at higher rates: “I don’t like that we have a 67,000-page tax code. It’s a monstrosity.”

He also said he’s opposed on principle to the numerous tax credits available to individuals and businesses, something he considers government micro-managing of the economy.

Davis also doesn’t say whether he would support the pay-as-you-go budget rules — a strategy to reduce budget deficits by requiring that any new spending increases or tax cuts be offset with spending cuts or tax increases in other parts of the budget: “That’s one strategy.”

Looking forwardDavis released internal polling more than a month ago that showed he’d closed the gap with Walz — but that it was still 18 percentage points. He hasn’t released any polling results since.“It’s always hard to tell,” he said of the campaign. “But we like the way things are going.”

Davis has talked often on the campaign trail about energy issues, particularly boosting the nation’s domestic energy production. Rather than being a campaign strategy aimed at fed-up motorists, he said it’s an issue he believes is the key to everything from joblessness to the federal deficits.

The only major factor that is absent today but was present during the boom times of the 1990s is cheap oil, Davis said.

“If we could get to the point where we get energy prices down, I think you’d see inflation go down, you’d see unemployment go down, you’d see tax receipts go up.” If he can pull off a come-from-behind victory next week, Davis promises to work on that issue and more the next two years.

“Right now, we have problems with taxes, our economy, energy and health care,” Davis said.

“And we’ve got somebody who’s going to go there and offer honest solutions and try to get something done.”

Davis on the Road: New Ulm Journal

2008-11-01T20:26:00.005-04:00

By KEVIN SWEENEY
Journal Editor

NEW ULM - As the political campaign season hits its final frantic days, Republican First District Congressional candidate Brian Davis is hitting the road hard to make a last pitch for votes.

On Thursday he was on the road with Gov. Tim Pawlenty, and Friday he took a big swing through the western part of the First District, with stops in Worthington, Pipestone, Fairmont and New Ulm.

Davis is working to get the word out on his main issues, and encouraging supporters to "bring 50 friends with you when you go to the polls on Tuesday."

Davis is touting his positions on the economy, energy and health care, but he is also spending time defending himself on issues such as Social Security and tax policy.

He has been targeted by Democratic literature that claims he wants to "gamble your Social Security benefits in the stock market," and that he wants to add a 23 percent federal sales tax.
The Social Security claims are not true, said Davis, especially when it says he wants to cut people's benefits. "That's just not true," he says.

As far as privatization, he has advocated in the past for allowing younger workers to invest some of their Social Security taxes, but not requiring it for anyone, especially workers who are nearing retirement and will be receiving benefits soon.

The national sales tax claims stem from a debate back in Winona between candidates seeking the Republican endorsement. When they were asked about the Fair Tax proposal, in which the federal income tax would be replaced by a national sales tax, "I said I thought it was worth studying, especially since 70 members of Congress had supported it, but I never said I would vote for it," Davis said Friday.

"We do need tax simplification," said Davis, but there are many, many questions about the national sales tax that need to be answered before such a major change in tax policy would ever be considered.

Davis, running against Democratic Rep. Tim Walz, said he would have opposed the economic bailout package, as Walz did.

"We need to fix the lending procedures first that led to this situation before we should be giving federal funding to the lenders," he said.

Davis said he believes in the strength of the free market system and its ability to create wealth rather than government intervention.

On the issue of energy, Davis said he favors an "all of the above" policy that includes expanded offshore drilling, and utilizing renewable energy as much as possible.

He favors expanded use of U.S. oil supplies to reduce the country's dependence on foreign oil.
Asked about the record third quarter profits ($14.8 billion) that Exxon reported this week, Davis said he thinks the investment tax credits oil companies received for drilling should end. But there should be incentives to encourage oil companies to go after the large amounts of U.S. oil that exists in oil shale.

The energy issue is very important to the U.S. economy, he said. In the 1990s, when oil was $10 a barrel, the U.S. economy was humming and there were federal budget surpluses, Davis said.
"We should have used that to pay down some of the national debt," he said.

But when the price of oil skyrocketed this year, it has led to economic problems resulting in a recession.

Davis favors developing more alternative energy, but he points out that the U.S. is currently getting 85 percent of its energy from fossil fuels. He doesn't think it is likely that renewable energy and wind power will be able to replace that 85 percent anytime soon.

On health care Davis, who is a radiologic oncologist at the Mayo Clinic, said the U.S. health care system is the best in the world, but it needs improvement. "I was asked to grade it, and I give it an A-minus. We need to make it an A-plus.

"The problem is that the cost of health care coverage is increasing at twice the rate of inflation," said Davis.

Davis said it would help if the nation had a uniform set of health care mandates. Currently, each state has its own mandated health care that insurance companies must cover. Minnesota tops the list, he said, "and that's not necessarily a bad thing."

But if there was a national consensus on what health care coverage should cover, it would allow insurance companies to compete over a broader area, reducing the costs.

He also favors a John McCain style of tax credit that can be used to purchase health insurance that goes from job to job, rather than expecting employers to provide health coverage.

Davis also favors more competition and negotiations for pharmaceuticals in the Medicare program to cut costs.

Davis said there are changes coming for health care, but the country should be careful not to destroy the incentives that have led the private sector to produce so many advances in medical care in the last few decades.

A private take on Social Security: From Former State Legislator Al Schumann in the Pipestone Star

2008-11-01T20:14:00.002-04:00

To the editor:

Our Democrat friends all over the nation are running against privatizing the Social Security system.In Minnesota the state employees, as well as the teachers retirement, have always been privatized. Their retirement board is made up of elected members of the employees and the governor and state treasurer, which invests the money in various stocks and bonds in the open market.

Back in the 1960s when I was in the Legislature we made a slight change. P.E.R.A. and T.R.A. did not include death and survivor benefits, and Social Security did. We changed the law so that 50 percent of the payments went into Social Security, 50 percent went into the privatized accounts. Oh, did we run into opposition from the state and teacher’s union. They much preferred their privatized retirement system because of the excellent returns on their investments.

I get the regular reports from the board and they have been getting up to 10-12 percent annually. They wouldn’t change for the Social Security’s two percent return at any price. Under the “rule of 72” it would take 36 years to double your money at two percent, while at 12 percent it will double in six years. If $10,000 is invested, at two percent, it will be worth $20,000, with compounded interest, in 36 years. If $10,000 is invested, at 12 percent, it will be worth $640,000, with compounded interest, in 36 years. Can you blame them for not wanting to change?

There have been numerous bipartisan boards looking at the problems we are going to have in Social Security. The last one included our former Democratic congressman Tim Penney and former U.S. Sen. Daniel Moynihan, D-New York. One recommendation was that we consider privatization. Remember you only lose money on stocks when you sell low. The boards invest roughly the same amount every month and they can buy more stock when the price is low. The stock will always come up in time.

Brian Davis is right to support partial privatizing for Social Security. Our younger citizens won’t have much when they retire under the present program. Being against this may be a popular gimmick for an election, but please tell us Mr. Walz, what are you proposing to do about the Social Security system? And, contrary to what you have been saying on TV ads, it will not take any money away from the present recipients.

Al Schumann
Eyota

Davis stumping through First Congressional District: Pipestone Star

2008-11-01T20:05:00.005-04:00

By Duane Winn
November 1, 2008

Republican Brian Davis offers a fair facsimile of a football coach who tells his troops at halftime that although they are behind, they still have a fighting chance of pulling off an upset. Or perhaps Davis is exhorting his players not to be complacent; that although they are enjoying a healthy lead, they still need to play hard to sew up victory.

Davis said there are no published polls of which he is aware that show either him or his incumbent opponent, U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, DFL-Mankato, in the lead for Minnesota’s First Congressional District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Davis, a Rochester physician, half-joking, asked each Republican gathered Friday at Lange’s Café in Pipestone to call 200 of his or her closest friends to urge them to vote for him. Pipestone County is a bastion of conservatism. In 2006, it was one of four counties in the district that longtime Republican incumbent Gil Gutknecht carried en route to a stunning setback at the hands of Walz.

With five days left until the general election, Davis is making a swing through his district, even where his support is the strongest, outlining where he stands on the issues and combating what he calls mischaracterizations of his positions by the enemy camp.

“We can win this election. We have to get every vote out,” Davis said Friday. "When it comes to important issues like the economy and energy, we have the right answers — at least, we’re offering solutions to these problems.

"Davis said Friday that he believes in the right to life (“Life begins at conception”). He also stated that the United States should drill offshore for oil. Davis also believes that the nation’s health care system doesn’t need to be revamped, just fine-tuned, emphasizing an increase in insurance portability and preventive treatment.

These platforms, Davis said, make sense for the entire country, not just for Republicans. However, he believes that the Walz campaign is trying to prevent his positions from getting out by mischaracterizing his positions on certain hot-button issues, such as Social Security a national sales tax.

A Walz radio ad claimed that Davis wants to cut guaranteed Social Security benefits for senior citizens.

“I think this is the most egregious mischaracterization, that I want to cut benefits,” Davis said.

“You cannot get that from anything I’ve said. I do not want to cut benefits. People rely on it, and it’s the best anti-poverty program that we have.

“Secondly, he’s mischaracterizing me on the privatization. He says I want to privatize all Social Security and put in the stock market, gamble it all away on the stock market.

”Davis stated that the DFL Party is claiming in ads and brochures that he supports a national sales tax when, in fact, he’s never publicly stated his approval for it.

Davis said that given the economic climate, all potential strategies should be looked at. He said, though, that he wouldn't support the idea until exhaustive research showed that it was a feasible idea.Davis said these accusations are designed to “frighten people needlessly.”

“It’s not a productive means of bringing issues to public discourse,” Davis said.Davis also took the Walz campaign to task for insistently referring to him as a “millionaire,” hinting that he doesn’t understand middle-class concerns.

“It’s a certain type of class warfare and politics that just isn’t productive,’ said Davis.

Former state legislator Verne Long, of Pipestone, said that no congressional candidate in this district within recent memory has featured gifts like those of Davis. In addition to being a physician, which gives Davis a unique perspective into health care issues, Davis also holds a degree in nuclear engineering. This gives Davis special insight into dealing with our energy problems, Long concluded.

Letter to the Editor: Albert Lea Tribune

2008-11-01T19:58:00.002-04:00

Davis will bring fresh ideas to Congress

Published Thursday, October 30, 2008

Rep. Tim Walz seems to be a very desperate man. Whenever a candidate has to stoop to airing outright falsehoods about their opponent, he is a candidate in trouble. The attack ads that Tim Walz has run against Dr. Brian Davis accusing him of wanting to cut Social Security are false. They are part of the fear tactics that are used by politicians.

Dr. Davis is concerned for the well being of our Social Security system, which Rep. Tim Walz has jeopardized by reckless votes on spending measures. The current Congress should not be returned to office because of their total lack of fiscal restraint.

Brian Davis with his fresh ideas and his expertise in several fields has Tim Walz desperate. The Walz campaign has gone to promoting falsehoods because they are afraid.

Tim Walz didn’t know what to do in Congress and took bad advice from the Democratic leadership voting with them instead of for us. Now he is taking bad advice from his campaign. We need someone who is able to think for himself. We need someone who supports Minnesota citizens’ best interests from the cradle to the grave.

Brian Davis cares for the welfare of the unborn infant as well as for our senior citizens. Brian Davis will make us proud that he is our representative in Congress. Let’s make a change Nov. 4!

Paul Ibisch
La Crescent

A look at the First District issues: Owatonna People's Press

2008-11-01T19:42:00.003-04:00

Jeff Cagle
Posted: Thursday, October 30, 2008 9:45 pm

OWATONNA — When Tim Walz ran against then-Congressman Gil Gutknecht two years ago for the First Congressional District, he was only able to capture 46 percent of the Steele County votes as opposed to the 54 percent his opponent garnered.

But with one term under his belt, Walz is betting that he can have a better showing in the Republican-leaning county and is confident he’ll do well against his Republican opponent Brian Davis, a physician from Mayo Clinic.“I think people know what kind of leadership I provide, and I’m hoping we improve upon that turnout last time that we did,” Walz said.

The freshman congressman touts his accomplishments for the county as including federal funding for Highway 14 and flood mitigation in Owatonna. Walz also has made numerous stops in Owatonna — appearing at Owatonna High School, a local trucking company and a grocery store.

The Walz campaign also boasts one of the largest grassroots organizations as they campaign for re-election bid.Davis, for his part, has been running television and radio ads, along with making some campaign stops and other events. Though he hasn’t made as many stops in Owatonna, Davis believes this to be a closer race than what people may believe.

“I can tell you when my opponent is spending $800,000, we know what he knows and that this is a tight race,” Davis said.Greg Mikkelson of Lake Crystal is an Independence Party candidate making a third run for the U.S. House. He previously ran in 2004 and again in 2002, but earned less than 5 percent of the vote, according to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office.

With just four days to go before the election, here’s a look at where the candidates stand on some of the issues affecting Steele County.

Economy

• Davis supports making the tax cuts from the Bush administration permanent. He also favors getting rid of the estate tax and capital gains tax, and to put a cap on federal spending.

• Walz supports tax cuts for the middle class and introduced the Middle Class Fairness Act in May, arguing it would help the average taxpayers save hundreds of dollars.

Walz also voted against the $700 billion bailout package twice. Davis said he would have done the same thing.

Energy

• Walz supports offshore oil drilling, along with finding ways to promote wind, solar and other alternative energy. He is also one of a few members of Congress who proposed recent legislation that promotes more offshore drilling, but for oil companies to fund renewable energy research and conservation.

• Davis supports an “all of the above” policy that would allow for more drilling and expand the use of alternative energy. He also favors nuclear power and said he could offer some expertise about nuclear energy citing his academic background in nuclear engineering.

Health Care

• Davis believes the U.S. has the greatest health care system in the world, but that it doesn’t work well for every citizen. He believes private markets should determine insurance rates, not the government. He also supports promoting a cost-benefit analysis at the federal level by promoting preventative medicine procedures.

• Walz favors making health care more affordable and accessible by promoting preventative care for everyone. He is unsure about going into a single-payer health system.Transportation• Walz has worked on Highway 14 legislation and has been able to secure at least $500,000 for road improvements.

He would also like to see an expansion of rail lines throughout the state, arguing it would make the country more efficient, but also create jobs.

• Davis said Highway 14 is impractical to drive on currently and would consider it the most important transportation issue he would improve. He would secure funding “any way possible” whether it’s a stand alone bill or through federal earmarks.

Jeff Cagle can be reached at 444-2378.

Davis rallies GOP faithful: Albert Lea Tribune

2008-11-01T19:27:00.005-04:00

1st District challenger shares his views
By Sarah Stultz Albert Lea Tribune
Published Thursday, October 30, 2008

With a mere six days left until the election, Republican congressional candidate Brian Davis campaigned Wednesday in Albert Lea, running through his key platforms and trying to clear up several messages about him that have aired in TV advertisements.

Drawing on his medical and energy backgrounds throughout his talk, Davis at the end simply asked the audience for their votes on Election Day. A good-sized crowd of at least 100 listened in the Fairlane Building at the event.

“We need your help come Tuesday,” Davis said.

Davis — a Rochester physician who is running in the 1st District against incumbent Tim Walz, a DFLer and Mankato teacher, and Lake Crystal farmer Gregory Mikkelson with the Independence Party — encouraged everyone in attendance to contact at least five or 10 of their close friends and share his message.

Touching on the key principles of his beliefs, Davis said he believes in the right to life.
“A human being begins at conception,” he said. “You do not need to destroy an embryo to do stem-cell research.”

House District 27A Republican candidate Erik Larsen listens to Brian Davis speak Wednesday.
He said marriage should be defined as a union between one man and one woman, and that fact is something for which he stands.

Davis asked people if they have received mail or seen commercials that state he wants to raise sales taxes by 23 percent.

“That flier ... doesn’t tell the whole story,” he said. “When you see something you don’t think is true, we shouldn’t be quiet about it.”

Regarding immigration, Davis said, this country needs to demand that people who come here do so legally.

“Illegal immigration works like a hidden tax on the middle class,” he said.

Moving to education, Davis said he believes the primary authority in a child’s education is that child’s parents, second is the community.

He said he does not support the No Child Left Behind Act, though it may have passed Congress with good intentions.

Republican congressional candidate Brian Davis speaks to people in the Fairlane Building on Wednesday. Davis spoke on issues such as immigration, education and health insurance.

“The No. 1 determiner about whether a child is successful at school is the home,” he said. But there needs to be funding in place for schools, too, he noted.

Davis said the United States should drill offshore for oil.

Regarding health care, he said he thinks there is a big problem in Washington, “where people are just itching to take over health care,” he said.

When a patient comes through the door, they don’t come through as a Republican or Democrat. And people should be able to choose their own doctors.

Despite its flaws, this country’s health care system is the greatest system in the world, he said.
There should be more portability in insurance, and people should know going into an elective surgery could potentially cost, he said.

He also pointed out that he received an A grade from the National Rifle Association.
After Davis finished, audience members asked questions of the Mayo Clinic physician.
Questions centered around Social Security, the ethanol industry, global warming and oil prices.
“When I first met this man ... I knew he was coming across very much with the truth,” said Freeborn County Republican Party Chairman Tiny Brandt.

People listen to Brian Davis speak at the Fairlane Building on Wednesday.

Brandt said he prayed to God for the success of the party’s candidates, but then as a Christian knew he had to add that whatever happens, it was God’s will.

He thinks Davis is a deserving man, he said.

To show his support was Minnesota House District 27A candidate Erik Larsen, R-Albert Lea, who is seeking election Tuesday as well. He faces Robin Brown, DFL-Moscow Township.

Former state Rep. Paul Overgaard said he has a special feeling in his heart for Larsen and Davis as they’re campaigning.

“They’re doing what I can still vividly remember doing 46 years ago,” Overgaard said. “I really understand what these guys are going through.”

He called Davis “one of the best qualified candidates” he’s ever seen.

“He’s the kind of guy we really need in the Congress of the United States,” he said.

Davis asked for any donations people were willing to give, as the last few days of the campaign will be filled with lots of television and radio commercials.

He said he will be debating one of his candidates Thursday in Austin, will be touring the western end of the district on Friday and then will attend a gun show on Saturday.

Letter to the Editor: Fairmont Sentinel

2008-11-01T19:17:00.002-04:00

Posted 10/29/08

To The Editor:

It's Time To Set The Record Straight!!

Recently, after viewing a TV ad approved by Congressman Walz, I believe it is time to set the record straight on the following issues.

Taxes: Walz's deception is that Brian Davis supports raising taxes. Truth is, Brian Davis favors making the current tax cuts permanent. Walz supports rescinding them, or at the very least, not renewing them, which would be a large tax raise. After a raise like that, a small tax reduction proposed by Barack Obama for the middle class wouldn't even hit the radar screen! The National Taxpayers Union has rated Congressman Walz and has given him a big F for his voting record on tax matters!!!!!

Education: Walz and his liberal Democrat friends keep calling for Congress to throw more money at an education policy that has failed to raise academic standards when we are compared to other countries. I say it is time to abide by the 10th amendment to the United States Constitution, which does not allow for Federal Government in education. Education control is granted to states and local control!

Social Security: Walz carps about allowing a percentage of Social Security to be privatized. At least we would be controlling part of our own retirement funds and not have the funds used by Walz and his colleagues in Congress for their favorite pork barrel earmarks, as they have in the past and there by bankrupting the Social Security Fund.

If Congressman Walz doesn't hold to the 10th Amendment, why should we believe his TV ad that touts his support for the 2nd amendment of our U.S. Constitution, which grants us the right to keep and bear arms, to defend and protect ourselves and our property? Walz has voted and certainly will vote lock step with his liberal colleagues in Congress!!! He can't be trusted when the chips are down, to vote in our best interests. We do need to replace him. We can do that by voting November 4th for Brian Davis, the candidate who we can trust to vote for our best interests and values.

Roger Miedtke
Fairmont

Fairmont Sentinel Endorses Brian Davis

2008-10-29T01:23:00.003-04:00

For Congress: Davis understands issues better

Gary Andersen, Lee Smith, Christine Rupp

POSTED: October 24, 2008

The key to solving problems is being able to understand them clearly.

The biggest issue facing the United States in recent months has been the financial meltdown on Wall Street, prompted by the troubles in the U.S. housing market.

The biggest issues facing the United States in the decades to come are the federal government's unfunded liabilities - Medicare and Social Security - and its addiction to spending.

In these cases, our congressman, Tim Walz falls short, especially in comparison to his opponent, Brian Davis.

Walz, a Democrat from Mankato, is convinced that the overwhelming trouble in the housing debacle was an unscrupulous market. He ignores the federal government's responsibility in the form of cheap interest rates; mortgage-interest tax deductibility; the federal backing of and concentration of power in mortgage giants Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; and the pressure Congress applied to lenders to get home loans to low-income communities.

On federal entitlements, Walz remains stubbornly committed to the status quo, which means insolvency or higher taxes. He uses the ridiculous term "gambling" to describe investing, a practice that would give young people far better returns - and therefore better retirements - than Social Security.

Walz does approve of "investing" when it comes to government projects and programs. Apparently, as long as Congress is in charge of your money, it's OK.

Davis, a Republican from Rochester, makes clear that Congress is addicted to spending, and has been for a long time. He notes that while the Bush tax cuts boosted economic growth and brought in more revenue to the federal treasury, spending has far outpaced it. Davis favors making those tax cuts permanent while cutting spending.

Davis, a doctor, knows health care reform is fundamentally tied to issues such as Medicare insolvency. We can only hope that more physicians like him find their ways into Congress. Having dealt with Medicare's red tape and reimbursements, those in the health care industry understand its shortcomings.

In the end, we believe Davis has a better grasp of the key issues and offers a better fit for constituents in Minnesota's First District. It is for these reasons that we give him our endorsement in this race.

Our Latest Ad: Double Life

2008-10-10T18:12:00.007-04:00

For Immediate Release
October 9th, 2008
Contact: Mike Spellings
507.424.2010

Davis Campaign Sets the Record Straight on Walz's Attempt to Distort his Record
Responds to Walz's "Davis ad Watch"

Rochester -- Despite Congressman Walz's effort to paint Brian Davis' campaign ad as "false and misleading," the Walz campaign continues to want to have it both ways. Instead of refuting any of the facts contained in the Davis ad, Walz decided to tout measures that put him on both sides of the issue. This kind of campaigning is in keeping with his desire to have his cake and eat it too, and is what makes citizens so cynical about Washington style politicians.

Davis' ad re-states a point made by the Washington Post: "Timothy Walz has voted with a majority of his Democratic colleagues 96.6% of the time during the current Congress" (http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/members/w000799/). The Walz campaign released a document attempting to refute this fact, stating Walz was ranked "moderate" by the National Journal, claiming he is "more conservative than 35.7% of congress." Despite the fact that the National Journal rank falls well short of a "moderate" stance, Walz again attempts to distract from the fact that he votes with liberal leadership over 96% of the time.

In spite of Congressman Walz's claim of being a "moderate," by pointing to an arbitrary score that rates him "more conservative than 35.7% of Congress," The American Conservative Union gave Walz a rating of "0" (zero), in 2007. (http://www.acuratings.org/2007all.htm#MN)

Walz goes on to reference an NRA endorsement to point to his "moderate" stance. However, as the Washington Post points out, this is simply the 3.4% of the time he doesn't vote with his liberal leadership, again falling well short of "moderate." Additionally, while the NRA supports a multifaceted list of candidates, it may not be as pleased with Walz's support for Barack Obama, as they lashed out at Obama's Second Amendment stance citing, "His radical record of opposition to our constitutional rights." Walz also claims a VFW endorsement points to a "moderate" stance. However, as Walz is a veteran himself, it seems rather fitting the VFW would endorse the veteran in the race, as opposed to the "moderate" in the race. Nowhere on the VFW website do they claim to support the candidate with the most "moderate" stance, or even signify that as a prerequisite or consideration for an endorsement. (http://www.vfw.state.mn.us/)

When it comes to the statement that Congressman Walz "voted for a ban on drilling," Walz makes a remarkably misleading statement, intimating that he authored a bill for new drilling: "Walz Drilling Bill Expands Drilling and Funding For Renewables" (sic) (Walz "Davis ad Watch" 10/8/08). However, as there is a total absence of legislation in the Library of Congress bearing Walz's name as the author of such legislation, or legislation by that name, this again points to his disappointing tendency to say one thing in Minnesota and do quite another in Washington, and, in so doing, intentionally mislead the public. (http://www.loc.gov/index.html)

The Davis ad cites 7 votes Walz made that would ban or prohibit the lifting of a ban on expanded drilling:
Voted to block consideration of a bill that would allow oil drilling in ANWR, use the revenues to fund alternative energy research, and prohibit the export of ANWR oil to other countries (House Roll Call 526, 7/24/08)
Voted to block consideration of the American Energy Act, an "all of the above" energy bill (House Roll Call 524, 7/24/08)
Voted to block consideration of a bill that would establish new refineries, allow energy exploration in ANWR and the Outer Continental Shelf, and provide incentives for alternative energies (House Roll Call 391, 6/10/08)
Voted to block consideration of amendments that would allow oil drilling in ANWR (House Roll Call 341, 5/21/08)
Voted to block consideration of a bill that would extend many alternative energy and energy efficiency tax credits, and also block consideration of amendments that would permit oil exploration in the Outer Continental Shelf (House Roll Call 340, 5/21/08)
Voted against comprehensive energy legislation that would allow offshore and ANWR drilling and promote energy efficiency and alternative fuels (House Roll Call 831, 8/4/07)
Voted against lifting the ban on offshore oil and gas drilling (House Roll Call 553, 6/26/07)
Davis notes, a vote to block consideration of a bill is not simply a proxy vote against drilling, it is an outright vote against the furthering of legislation to expand domestic drilling by standing in the way of lifting the ban. Either you are for drilling or you are against it. While Walz attempts to hide his disappointing voting record on energy by pointing to recent votes that include "some drilling," Davis points to a headline in an article published in the Rochester Post Bulletin as recently as June stating, "Walz says no to expanded drilling; opponent says yes" (Rochester Post Bulletin, June 20, 2008, By Matthew Stolle). Walz went on to call expanded drilling a "Red Herring" in the very same article. Are we to believe Congressman Walz now supports what he previously called a "Red Herring?"

Walz notes he voted recently to allow the drilling ban to expire, in the face of mounting public opposition to his long established favor of a drilling ban. However, Davis again points to Walz being on both sides of the issue. As illustrated above, Davis will not allow Walz to simply talk about whichever vote he cast that is the most politically expedient, and ignore his previous opposition to drilling time and time again, as if he has been for drilling all along.

With relation to Walz supporting higher taxes that hurt the family farm, Davis points out Walz's opposition to the elimination of the Estate Tax and that he is in favor of increasing the Capital Gains Tax, as noted in the Congressional National Political Awareness Test, Nov 7, 2006. Farmers who support Walz would be loathed to know he does not support allowing them to pass their family farm down from generation to generation without suffering a massive tax on the transaction, which in some cases, prohibits a family farm from being passed down at all. Walz also cites an endorsement from the National Farmers Union PAC as evidence of his pro-farmer stance. However, despite his inability to receive the Minnesota Farm Bureau endorsement as a sitting congressman in an agricultural district, the National Farmers Union PAC may be slow to inform their members that Walz voted in favor of the "Employee Free Choice Act." The "Employee Free Choice Act" is a deceptively named bill that strips workers of the right to vote by secret ballot in union formation proceedings.

In their endorsement of Brian Davis, the Associated Builders and Contractors point out: "Mr. Davis opposes the fraudulently-named 'Employee Free Choice Act.' This bill would actually take away rights to a free and private election for unionization drives. His opponent [Walz] supports this abuse, and seems to think that employers and union officials should know who votes for or against the union formation. ABC feels that it is unconscionable for Mr. Walz to sell out American workers this way."

As further evidence that Walz says one thing in Minnesota and does another in Washington, the non-partisan political watchdog website ontheissues.org, rates Congressman Walz as "Left Liberal," (http://house.ontheissues.org/House/Tim_Walz.htm) again justifying the statements in Davis' ad.

Finally, other groups have rated Congressman Walz's voting record in a way that further buttresses Davis' claim that Walz has a liberal voting record. The National Taxpayer's Union assessed Mr. Walz's voting record at 3% out of a possible 100%, tied for the worst record in the Minnesota congressional delegation. Also, the Club for Growth has listed Walz's voting record as being 394th out of 435 of members in the U.S. House of Representatives. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has scored Walz's voting record at 60%, also one of the lowest in the Minnesota congressional delegation. Other groups' ratings can be found here: http://www.votesmart.org/issue_rating_category.php?can_id=65443.

###

Against the Bailout

2008-10-03T21:38:00.000-04:00

Brian Davis Releases New Poll Showing Walz Fading

2008-09-22T12:31:00.008-04:00

For Immediate Release
September 22, 2008
Contact: Mike Spellings
507.424.2010

Brian Davis Releases New Poll Showing Walz Fading

Davis Now Within Reach of Walz

Rochester - Coming off a resounding primary victory on September 9th with 67% of the vote, Brian Davis, Republican candidate for Minnesota's First Congressional District, has seen a significant bounce in the polls, while Tim Walz has faltered. The Davis campaign today released information showing Tim Walz polling at a disappointing 50% if the election were held today.

Davis, reacting to the new poll stated, "I am very pleased to see our hard work has been paying off. Minnesotans are taking a look at Tim Walz' record and seeing he is not the candidate they thought he was in 2006. I look forward to a more aggressive effort to expose Tim Walz' disappointing record in his short time in congress, and to provide representation that reflects southern Minnesota values."

The poll was conducted by The Tarrance Group. In a memorandum on the poll taken between September 17th and 18th, Brian Tringali of The Tarrance Group stated, "Tim Walz may not be on the endangered incumbent list for the Democrats, but he should be now."

"It's important to note here that incumbents go into the race with a stark advantage," said Mike Spellings of the Davis campaign. "Walz' lack of performance thus far in the campaign has shown his message rings hollow with the public, they understand he says one thing in his high-dollar TV ads, but does another when he's casting his vote in Washington."

For the presidential ticket, Republican John McCain is leading over Democrat Barack Obama in the First Congressional District

A release from The Tarrance Group on the poll is attached below.

MEMORANDUM

to: Dr. Brian Davis
National Republican Congressional Committee

from: Brian C. Tringali
B.J. Martino
Kevin Hudak

re: A Post-Primary Bounce for Doctor Davis (MN-01)

date: September 22, 2008
________________________________________________________________________

Capitalizing on his primary victory just one week ago (where he carried 67% of the vote), Dr. Brian Davis, the Republican nominee for the First Congressional District of Minnesota, has seen a dramatic increase in his ballot position. Perhaps more importantly, the incumbent he is running against has dropped to a mere 50% on the ballot. For incumbent Members of Congress, the rule is often "what you see is what you get." Tim Walz may not be on the endangered incumbent list for the Democrats, but he should be now.

The Brian Davis for Congress campaign and the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) commissioned the Tarrance Group to conduct a telephone survey of N=300 registered voters throughout Minnesota's First Congressional District. A random sample of this type is likely to yield a margin of error of +5.8% in 95 out of 100 cases. Responses to the survey were gathered September 17-18, 2008.

This is the congressional district formerly held for by Congressman Gil Gutknecht until two years ago. As such, it should come as no shock that it is a toss up seat based upon the generic preferences of the voters who live there. Despite the fact that a Democrat is currently in office, 39% would prefer to see a Republican in this congressional seat and just 44% would prefer to see a Democrat.

Generic Ballot for Congress

Republican 39%
Undecided 16%
Democrat 44%

Another piece of evidence that this congressional district is winnable for Republicans again is seen through the presidential ballot. John McCain is currently holding a 2 point lead on the ballot over Barack Obama in the First District of Minnesota.

Presidential Ballot (within MN-01)

John McCain 45%
Barack Obama 43%
Bob Barr 1%
Ralph Nader 2%
Undecided 9%

Incumbent Democrat Tim Walz has lost four points off his ballot score over the last month. All of that vote and more, moved over to become part of the Davis coalition. Now that voters know who he faces in November, Walz garners just 50% of the vote. By definition, Walz is a vulnerable incumbent. Turnout modeling reveals that Tim Walz would capture less than half of the vote if the election were held today.

# # #

Party endorsement may hold weight in primary election

2008-09-09T00:32:00.005-04:00

By JEFF CAGLE
Owatonna People's Press
Posted: Saturday, September 6, 2008 10:20 pm

OWATONNA — Dick Day’s election record heading into Tuesday’s primary election against Brian Davis is 13-1. He hasn’t been defeated in any race since 1982.“We’re hoping to go 14-1,” Day said on Friday.

Day is a political heavyweight in the Minnesota Republican Party, having served a number of leadership positions in the Senate and the state Republican Party. And while he’s respected by many, Day has also drawn the ire from liberals for some colorful comments he’s made about Minneapolis schools. He’s also drawn the ire from members of his own party for going alone in primary battles against party-endorsed candidates like Davis. When Day made the decision to bypass the endorsement, it angered many party leaders and delegates.

As punishment, the state Republican Party stripped Day of any party and fundraising resources. He also had the state party’s chairman Ron Carey call for his resignation. All the while, Day hasn’t been fazed.

“People have come up to me, and say, ‘Hey , thanks for giving us the opportunity to vote,’” Day said. And while Day’s supporters back him, former state Sen. Mel Frederick, one of his former opponents, said having the party endorsement helps a party introduce a candidate to perspective voters.

“I feel that the party isn’t snubbing him because he snubbed them first,” Frederick said.Frederick lost to Day in a 1990 primary by a mere 26 votes. Frederick isn’t upset that he lost to a political outsider, but by the way he lost.

In 1990, Frederick failed to garner enough votes to earn the district’s party nomination. Day bypassed the party endorsement and challenged Frederick to a primary.The weekend prior to the primary, a flyer circulated around Owatonna accusing Frederick of supporting abortion, something Frederick said was misleading.

“I’ve never liked him. I’ve never trusted him,” Frederick said.

Day didn’t have much of a problem winning this election. But if Day wins Tuesday, Frederick said he has a tough chance when it comes to defeating Democratic Congressman Tim Walz in the general election.

“That’s the value of an endorsement,” Frederick said. “It would be a tough uphill battle.”

Republican state Rep. Randy Demmer of Hayfield said Day threw his campaign, along with Davis’ campaign, a curve ball when he announced he was bypassing the First District convention.

Prior to the convention, the candidate pledged to abide by the party’s endorsement — something Demmer still plans to do Tuesday.

“I’m not sure if it’s fair for me to go the other way,” he said.

Day, meanwhile, has not felt bad about campaigning in primaries. He said those are the best ways for voters to decide whether or not their candidate is the best, as opposed to party activists. Plus, he knew going in that he was in what he called a “Day vs. Goliath” contest.

“I’m very glad I went the opportunity the way I went,” Day said. “There’s primaries in the Republican party... and it’ll be kind of interesting to watch how this all works out.”

Demmer said if Day were to win the primary, there may be some wounds that would have to heal. But he was confident people would rally around Day before the general election.Day, meanwhile, isn’t concerned if he loses because he’ll still have a Senate seat and two years left to serve out his term.

Jeff Cagle can be reached at 444-2378.

Representative Drazkowski's Letter to the Editor: Remember to take part in the process

2008-09-07T22:18:00.002-04:00

September 5, 2008

By State Rep. Steve Drazkowski / Wabasha, Minn.

I encourage southern Minnesotans to vote in the primary elections this Tuesday. This is an important process in narrowing races where more than one candidate has filed for office under the same party affiliation.

Earlier this year, grassroots Republicans attended their local caucus and county conventions and were elected by their friends and neighbors to represent them and their interests in the district endorsing process. This process was sound and fair, conducted with integrity and broad participation, and brought us an outstanding candidate in Brian Davis. Brian was the person that grassroots Republicans endorsed to represent our conservative values on the November ballot. I would like to thank these delegates for making an outstanding choice.

I have had the privilege to spend many hours with Brian Davis, and can verify that he is the preeminent Republican to represent southern Minnesota in Washington, D.C.

Brian is the real deal. He’s honest, earnest and intelligent.

His education and work experience with nuclear energy and health care make him a great fit for handling the top issues facing our nation. Brian has offered authentic leadership to bring our country to energy independence. He will lead on securing our borders and reforming immigration.

Additionally, Davis is a newcomer to the political arena. He has not made a career of being in elected office. Brian is committed only to his constituents and has absolutely no interest in political favors.

Fellow Republicans, we have a wonderful opportunity to uphold the great decision our delegates made this spring by voting for Brian Davis. It is important we send the best and strongest candidate onward to face the liberal incumbent this November. As a united party supporting a great leader like Brian, we will make Minnesota a better place to live and raise a family.

Davis deserves your vote in primary

2008-09-07T09:24:00.001-04:00

September 3, 2008

To the editor:

Even though it seems like the General Election is a long ways away, please don’t forget about the primary election on Sept. 9. This election sorts out the contending candidates within each party. While Minnesota has an open primary, a voter must only vote in one party. Some offices are not challenged, but one in particular needs your attention.

Brian Davis, a physician from Rochester, received the endorsement of his party at the Republican State Convention on March 29. His opposition promised to honor whoever was endorsed, but one contender broke his word so Brian Davis will need your vote on Sept. 9. I’ve met Brian personally and believe he is right candidate to represent this district in Washington, D.C.

Brian was born and raised in the Midwest. Both his parents were teachers. His father is a retired K-6 school principal, school board member and WWII veteran who served in the Army Air Corps in New Guinea. His mother is a retired reading teacher.

Brian has a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering besides his M.D. Before becoming a physician, Brian worked fulltime at Sargent and Lundy Engineers in Chicago on the licensing and design of nuclear power plants and radioactive waste management. He also knows the benefits of nuclear energy and acknowledges the need to drill here, drill now. He has experience treating cancer and has firsthand experience with the successes and limitations of the health care system. He knows how to fix it. From his experience as a doctor he knows it is not necessary to use embryos for experimentation. He knows that adult stem cell research has proved to be successful.

Check out the other races in the primary. It is a sad fact that many bad politicians are elected by the people who stay home and do not vote. This year the primary on Sept. 9 is overshadowed by the two national conventions and the General Election. Your participation might be more important on Sept. 9 than ever before.

Dave Hoss, Pipestone

Brian Davis: Letter to the Editor New Ulm Journal

2008-09-07T09:21:00.003-04:00

September 5, 2008

TO THE EDITOR:

On March 29, after a series of elections beginning with nearly 7,000 caucus-goers, I received the endorsement of the Republican Party of Minnesota as their candidate for U.S. Congress in the First District.

Over the past 18 months, I've traveled over 60,000 miles crisscrossing southern Minnesota sharing my ideas and, more importantly, listening to thousands of Minnesotans share their concerns for America's future. The bottom line is that it's clear we have a problem with energy costs - gas and diesel prices are straining the budgets of families, farms and small businesses alike. We need to increase domestic energy production without government placing too many obstacles in the way in the form of regulations and new taxes, fees or royalties.

And high tax rates punish those small businesses and farmers who succeed and want to pass along their hard work to the next generation.

Minnesotans are looking for honesty in their elected officials, people who can deliver real solutions to our most pressing problems. As a father of four, physician, taxpayer, and engineer with prior energy industry experience, I am confident that we can do better.

On Sept. 9, I would be honored to have your vote in the upcoming Republican primary.
With your support, I'm ready to get to work for you, delivering results and common-sense conservative solutions.

BRIAN DAVIS
First District Congressional Candidate
Rochester

Woodley for Davis: New Ulm Journal Letter to the Editor

2008-09-07T09:19:00.003-04:00

August 28, 2008

TO THE EDITOR:

As Chairman of the Brown County Republican Board, I am proud to endorse Brian Davis for U.S. Congress in the First Congressional District. I would encourage all Republicans to vote for Brian in the Sept. 9 Republican Primary.

Brian has received the endorsement of 23 County Chairs or Co-Chairs in 20 counties in the First Congressional District. That's because Brian is truly an electable candidate in November. Brian is strongly pro-family, pro-second amendment, supports low taxes, and wants to increase oil drilling as part of the solution to lower energy costs.

The November election is an important election for the citizens of the First Congressional District. Republicans must have their strongest candidate on the ballot and Brian Davis is that candidate.

I hope you will join with me in going to the polls on Sept. 9 in support of Brian Davis for U.S. Congress.

GERALD C. WOODLEY
New Ulm

Your View: Davis is delegates' choice

2008-09-06T04:38:00.003-04:00

By Linda Pettman, Mankato

Mankato Free Press
September 05, 2008 11:05 pm—

Sen. Dick Day recently mailed out a flyer claiming that only 160 “party insiders” had chosen the Republican candidate for Congress in the 1st District.As one who has sought and received the endorsement of “party insiders” numerous times, Day knows that, through the representative process, those 160 1st District delegates represented Republican caucus attendees and BPOU (county or senate district) delegates throughout the 1st District.

At each level, voters’ selection of delegates to the next level was largely or wholly influenced by which candidates the delegate would support at the next level.Brian Davis has great support at each level of the process because Republicans understood that we need more experts in Congress, not more politicians.First District delegates chose Davis because he offers critical expertise in both health care and the energy field, in addition to representing 1st District values and concerns.

Day’s flyer also states, “You know where he stands.” Yet, over the course of many months, Day repeatedly promised to abide by the endorsement decision, only to change his mind late in the process, when it became obvious he could not win that endorsement.

To me, it is reminiscent of the boy who says, “If you won’t let me be the pitcher, I’m going to take my ball and go home.”Let’s send an expert, not a politician, to Congress.

Mankato Rally for Brian Davis for Congress

2008-09-06T04:00:00.005-04:00

Republicans enjoy ups and downs at convention: Rochester Post Bulletin

2008-09-06T03:51:00.006-04:00

9/5/2008 10:26:59 AM

By Matthew StollePost-Bulletin, Rochester MN

The Rochester delegation is having its ups and downs at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul:

• Anarchists have sown mischief in the early days of the convention. One tactic being used to disrupt the convention is to slash and puncture the tires of convention shuttle buses carrying delegates and alternates to the convention arena.

• Duane Quam, national alternate delegate to the Republican National Convention and a Byron resident, was riding on a bus that blew a tire caused by a sharp object. Quam had to wait while another bus was summoned to take him to the convention.

• Minnesota's national delegation has the equivalent of ringside seats at the convention. The 41-member delegation, which includes state Rep. Randy Demmer of Hayfield, occupies the first several rows of seats just to the right of the speaker's platform. When Republican presidential candidate John McCain accepts his party's nomination on Thursday night, state delegates will be about 20 yards away.

• GOP Senate Minority Leader Dave Senjem of Rochester had an opportunity to exchange a few words with former presidential candidate and ex-Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney at small fundraiser earlier in the convention.

"I congratulated him on his health care initiatives, told him he would have been a fine vice president," Senjem said. Romney was philosophical about his recent political defeats -- losing the presidential nomination and being passed over as Sen. John McCain's running mate -- indicating to Senjem that the political stars simply had not aligned for him.

• Brian Davis, the GOP candidate for Congress in the First Congressional District, addressed the Minnesota delegation on Tuesday and later met with GOP House Minority Whip Roy Blunt of Missouri.

Davis said Blunt inquired about the state of the campaign. While Blunt did not offer any specific pledges of support, Davis said the race is rising higher on the Republican National Congressional Committee's radar screen.

The seat is held by Democratic Congressman Tim Walz, a first-term representative from Mankato, but Davis must first beat state Sen. Dick Day of Owatonna to advance to the general election.

Davis is the right pick: Letter to the Editor

2008-09-06T02:52:00.002-04:00

By Richard Dorn and Paul Evanson
Winona Daily News
Published Thursday, Sept. 4

As chairmen of the Winona County Republican Board, we are proud to endorse Brian Davis for U.S. Congress in the First Congressional District and encourage you to vote for Brian in the Sept. 9 Republican primary.Brian has received the endorsement of 22 county chairpersons in the First Congressional District. That’s because he is truly an electable candidate in November. Brian is strongly pro-family, pro-Second Amendment, supports cutting taxes and wants to increase drilling for more oil in order to lower fuel prices. The November election is an important election for our citizens. Republicans must have their strongest candidate on the ballot and Brian Davis is that candidate.

Vote for physician Brian Davis: Letter to the Editor

2008-09-06T02:19:00.001-04:00

Published Wednesday, September 3, 2008

As chairman of the Freeborn County Republican Party board, I am proud to endorse Brian Davis for U.S. Congress in the 1st Congressional District and encourage you to vote for Brian in the Sept. 9 Republican primary election.

Brian has received the endorsement of 22 county chairs in the 1st Congressional District. That is because he truly is an electable candidate in November. Brian is strongly pro-family, pro-Second Amendment, supports cutting taxes and wants to increase drilling for more oil in order to lower gas prices.

The November election is an important election for our citizens. Republicans must have their strongest candidate on the ballot and Brian Davis is the candidate. Remember to vote for Brian in the Sept. 9 primary.

Tiny Brandt
chairman
Freeborn County Republicans
Albert Lea

Brian Davis is superior candidate in District 1

2008-08-29T21:48:00.003-04:00

Albert Lea Tribune: Letter to the Editor
Published Friday, August 29, 2008

On March 29 the 1st District Republican Convention, comprising 22 Minnesota counties, was held in Albert Lea. At that time the convention held an election between two candidates with Dr. Brian Davis being endorsed as the 1st District’s candidate for U.S. House of Representatives
.
Those of us in District 1 have the opportunity this November of electing a remarkable candidate to the U.S. Congress. Davis is a man with high moral standards, a brilliant mind, and a commitment to using these talents for his country in solving our many problems.

Davis is currently a physician of radiation oncology at the Mayo Clinic. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Illinois and received a degree in nuclear engineering in 1982, then given a one-year scholarship to attend college in West Germany. He was hired by an engineering firm in Chicago working on the design and licensing of nuclear power plants. Davis then attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he received his master’s and Ph.D. degrees in mechanical engineering with biomedical specialization. He later received his medical degree with special training in radiation oncology in New York City.

In these days when energy and health care are huge problems, here is a man who truly has the knowledge and education to contribute realistically to their solution. Davis has laid out his ideas clearly on national security, illegal immigration, energy, health care, spending and taxes. He has expertise in all of these areas.

To those of you who are hungry for a congressman with superior qualifications, knowledge, integrity and leadership, Brian Davis is your man. Just hearing him speak the first time convinced me that he’s the one to elect in the primary against unendorsed candidate Dick Day on Sept. 9 and later in the November election. Davis is truly a remarkable man.

A quote from Brian Davis, “Our next congressman needs to understand America’s energy crisis and have the vision to implement a meaningful change in our nation’s energy problems.”

Dorothy Erlandson
Albert Lea

Family Will Enjoy Convention Together: Fairmont Sentinel

2008-08-27T00:11:00.002-04:00

Neal and Juleen Breitbarth stand behind their candidates of choice, showing their support for the Republican Party with lawn signs decorating their yard in Fairmont. Both will be involved in the Republican National Convention from Sept. 1-4, along with their daughter, Rebekah Breitbarth.

Brian Davis for Congress: Television Ad

2008-08-26T23:32:00.006-04:00

Brian Davis for Congress Releases Their First Television Ad
Davis: Criticizes Walz for voting to adjourn congress while energy legislation is stalled

For Immediate Release
August 26, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - Today, the Brian Davis for Congress campaign announced the release of its first television ad. The ad focuses on the issue of high gas prices and Congressman Tim Walz' lack of support for increasing domestic oil exploration and drilling. The campaign is running the ad across the First Congressional District from August 25 until the Primary Election on September 9th.

"As I've campaigned across southern Minnesota, I hear time and again that the high cost of gas and diesel fuel are at the top of the list of voters' concerns," said Davis. "It's clear that high fuel costs are undermining the health of our economy and that people are suffering. In the short time he's been in Congress, Mr. Walz has voted eleven times against an expansion of drilling or allowing Congress to even consider it for debate. He simply isn't getting the job done for residents of our District."

Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District faces a primary challenge on September 9th. He and his wife Lori live in Rochester where they are raising their four children.

###

Letter to the editor: Mankato Free Press

2008-08-20T16:03:00.005-04:00

Your View: Democrats are no better

By Wayne Comstock, North Mankato

August 19, 2008

The Democrats were elected in 2006 to a majority position in the U.S. Senate and House. It was the result of a failed Republican leadership. They promised to immediately provide a new and progressive leadership. We have since only seen lockstep partisanship and unyielding negativity.

Rep. Tim Walz, D, 1st District, has been in Washington for less than two years and he’s already rolling over to the failed House leadership. With the nation in energy crisis, important pending energy legislation was disallowed a vote by the Democrats (Roll call vote 537). Instead of taking care of critical legislative business Waltz and his party voted to adjourn and go home for a 5 week break. No wonder they only have a 17 percent approval rating.

Instead of debating energy crisis legislation, Walz now brings up a diversionary legislative proposal to reduce deficits and cut taxes on the middle class. He plans to accomplish this by raising taxes on higher incomes and closing certain corporation loopholes? Higher corporate taxes always lead to higher prices for their products and job layoffs. Who ends up paying for the consequences of higher corporate taxes? We do.

Walz also flaunts a stringer of 47 earmark legislative bills for 2009. Transparent or not, earmark legislation is one of the major causes of deficit budgets. Local proponents of pet pork project funding bills are just cheering on deficit spending.

I’m disappointed with our Washington representatives and it only worsened as we replaced them in 2006.

They just don’t get it.

Don’t just vote for a political party or personality. Cross party lines and vote for “get it done” leaders and hold them accountable.

Open Up Oil Fields, Or Else: Letter to the editor

2008-08-11T00:01:00.002-04:00

Vote to pen up oil fields, or else

Rochester Post Bulletin
8/5/2008 11:43:46 AM

My heating bill arrived today with an increase in my monthly even pay amount for natural gas. It's going up over $100 per month starting in July. Yep, in July.

I called the gas company to ask why. My usage has consistently gone down over the last several years, and again this year, due to a great deal of weatherizing for our home. The lady at the gas company says it's going up now because natural gas prices are expected to rise again sharply for this coming winter.

The oil fields that are not currently open to production also offer natural gas production opportunities.

If Tim Walz won't open up oil and natural gas production, then I am voting for Brian Davis. It's just that simple. I thought the gasoline situation was bad, but now I know it's only part of the story.

Muriel Hanson
Preston

Western Days Parade in Chatfield

2008-08-10T23:12:00.003-04:00

Traveling the District on Thursday, August 6

2008-08-10T12:29:00.005-04:00

Our campaign made stops in Rochester, Caledonia and Winona on Thursday, August 6. We participated in events with Senator Coleman and other elected officials and candidates.

Drilling debate strikes oil in Minnesota farm country

2008-08-08T23:01:00.001-04:00

The Republican Eagle - 08/05/2008

REDWOOD FALLS, Minn. — A southern Minnesota congressional challenger used a Tuesday farm forum to drill home his support for off-shore oil drilling.

Republican challenger Brian Davis in the 1st Congressional District, serving most of southern Minnesota, repeatedly told the FarmFest audience that opening waters off the country's coast to oil drilling would help lower farmers' energy costs. He talked about off-shore drilling when answering more than half of the farm leaders' questions at the forum.

His Republican opponent, Dick Day, also called for more drilling, but not as often as Davis.
Davis, a Mayo Clinic doctor, and state Sen. Day are locked in a Republican primary election battle. The winner of the September vote will face Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Walz in the November general election.

The forum came at FarmFest, an annual southwestern Minnesota gathering of farmers and agri-businessmen. Western Minnesota's 7th Congressional District and southern Minnesota's 1st district were the only ones in which all major candidates appeared.

While many speakers at FarmFest talk of saving the family farm, the often-blunt Day has his own assessment: "Whether you like it or not, the small family farm is gone."

Day and Davis were critical of new federal farm policy, but mostly because 70 percent of it has little to do with farming. Walz defended the bill.

"It made sure the safety net is there," Walz said.

However, Walz added, commodities such as crops probably could have fared better.
Day's big concern for federal farm policy is over-regulation.

"A fringe group" opposes farmers, he said, and that group should not control farm policy.
Energy was a major part of the forum discussion. Walz said he likes renewable energy standards recently put into law.

"They have done wonders," the first-term congressman said.

The standards help to encourage things like ethanol and wind power, both good for Minnesota, he said.

He also said he would accept ideas like off-shore drilling that Davis promoted. But, he added, it would only be if big oil companies did not overly profit.

Day joined Davis in calling for more oil drilling. He specifically said he supports more drilling in a controversial area of Alaska.

Davis said government regulations "messed up" the nuclear power industry. He did not specifically call for less federal regulation, but did encourage more nuclear power plants to be built.

Walz said 14 hearings he held on the farm bill shows his leadership ability.

Davis said he has traveled more than 50,000 in the southern Minnesota district, finding that more oil drilling and estate and capital gains taxes are hurting farmers.

Day promoted his time in the state Senate, where he has dealt with transportation and agriculture issues, and said he is fine with his status "a little outside the Republican Party."

Western Minnesota voters have a choice between a powerful U.S. House Agriculture Committee chairman and a second-time challenger who thinks a recently enacted farm bill falls short.

Republican challenger Glen Menze said on Tuesday that the farm bill, which sets federal agriculture policy for years, did not have enough specific "risk management" provisions such as crop insurance for farmers. The omissions are especially hard on small farmers, he said.

However, he was in the minority of Democrats and Republicans who spoke at a FarmFest forum. Most other congressional candidates praised the farm bill.

Menze's opponent, Democratic U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson, was a major author of the legislation as ag committee chairman. Peterson presented the farm bill as a compromise that treats Minnesota farmers well.

Steve Sarvi, a Democratic challenger in the 2nd Congressional District, said young people will remain in rural Minnesota if they have economic incentive, but added: "Rural communities need to be more than just farming." His Republican opponent, U.S. Rep. John Kline, did not attend FarmFest.

Brian Davis campaigns for Congress on conservative values

2008-08-02T22:52:00.009-04:00

Fillmore County Journal
Friday, August 01
By John Torgrimson

Brian Davis, a Mayo physician and researcher from Rochester is the endorsed Republican candidate for U.S. Congress in the 1st District. He is being challenged by Sen. Dick Day of Owatonna in the September primary election to run against incumbent Democratic congressman Tim Walz in November.

Davis recently spoke with Journal editor John Torgrimson about his candidacy and his stand on a range of issues. Excerpts from that conversation follows.

Journal: Why, with your background, are you choosing to run for Congress in the first district?

Davis: The change in representation in 2006. I feel like Congress was trying to take the country in the wrong direction. I believe there are solutions that need to be addressed: solutions in energy; solutions in health care. So in early 2007, I visited with state Republican leaders and I chose to run. On March 29 I won [Republican] endorsement.

Journal: When I say George Bush, what does that mean to you? Positive, negative? Good legacy?

Davis: I think we'll leave that to the historians to determine. I think some of the analogies with Harry Truman being resolute, and sometimes people even say "inflexible," but there may come a time down the road when people will look back and he [Bush] will have a stronger public perception than he does now. People in this district voted for George Bush both in 2000 and in 2004. So, I will tell you that I'm running in 2008 for the future. I don't agree with everything that he's done, but I will tell you I supported him in 2000 and 2004, as did the majority of this district.

Journal: The Iraq war?

Davis: The Iraq War is a part of our larger struggle with radical Islam, who are totally opposed to our way of life, our freedoms, our freedom of speech and freedom of the press, our ability to have this conversation and not be afraid that someone's going to knock on our door in the middle of the night and take us away. And I believe that we need to be strong against it, whether that's in Iraq or Afghanistan. But I think for us to move forward regardless of what one's opinion has been on this war we should ask the people of Iraq and Afghanistan to have a referendum and pose the question "Do you want the US military to stay or to go?" If the people vote freely in democratic elections and say 'we think it's time for the US military to go', then we can leave and hold our heads up high, we helped them put forward a democratic government, and in that respect we won the war and our military can be proud of a lot of things that have happened there.

Journal: Will there be a political settlement in Iraq?

Davis: I would like to see a political settlement in Iraq that would be based on having a referendum there. I think it's unquestionable that the change in strategy has been successful. It's bought us time, it's bought the government of Iraq time. But I don't think it's in our interest or in the interest of the countries in the Middle East to have the US government and the military leave there with the perception that we were chased out of there by a few thousand terrorists or suicide bombers. If we leave, have us leave because it was a mutual decision between the democratically elected governments, and the people of Iraq, and the United States government, not because of some partisan political contest in Washington D.C.

Journal: What about the economy?

Davis: Energy is the lifeblood of a modern economy. And the higher the cost of energy, and the more constraints the government places on energy production, the more costly it will be and people in our country will suffer economically.

Some think America would be better off if we had $5 gasoline. I don't believe that. The majority of the people of this country don't believe that. I'm in favor of clean air and clean water. In fact, our air is so much cleaner than it was 30 or 40 years ago because of the Clean Air and Water Act. You can have intelligent technology--it costs a little more but it's not such that it will shut down an industry.

Journal: Speaking of energy, what are the elements of an energy policy you think will work?

Davis: First of all, we have to realize that 85% of our energy in this country is carbon based. Coal, oil, natural gas. Throw in nuclear power, and that's the four major sources of energy. That's over 90% of the energy we use in heating, transportation and electricity and we can't turn off those switches easily. That's the bedrock, those are the pillars of energy. In Minnesota, I'm proud of the fact that we are among the leaders in the country in wind-power and ethanol. And anything we do that reduces our dependence on foreign oil is a good thing. I'm optimistic that over the long-term these forms of energy will be competitive over the open market.

Journal: You talked a little bit about oil, but I know you've been fairly outspoken about drilling. Some experts believe America doesn't have enough oil reserves to drill it's way out of it's problems. Respond to that.

Davis: I think it's doubtful that we would be in a position soon where we're independent of foreign oil. However, we're the third largest producer of oil in the world. And we need to produce more oil in this country, and if we can do it easily and readily, we should. It'll help our economy, it'll employ people, and it'll make us less dependent on foreign oil from countries that don't necessarily share our values. We still get two-thirds of our oil from North America--between Mexico, Canada, and the United States--if we can reduce that percentage of imported oil by using our own resources in an environmentally friendly manner, I'm in favor of drilling in Alaska. I think it should be done. And in off shore areas, we only have less than 5% that is open.

Journal: I've read where you're not a firm believer in climate change?

Davis: We've had climate change since the beginning of recorded history. We know there's areas right here that 13,000 years ago were glaciers. So, climate change happens. But to what extent CO2 production is responsible for the climate change we're observing is not well-quantified, not well-quantified at all. I met with an MIT professor, Richard Lindzen - he's in the National Academy of Science. He has been real outspoken that we don't know how much--if at all--we'd be able to change the climate if we shut down carbon based energy. If we stopped right now, can we predict how much we'd change the climate?

Journal: Are we doing enough as people, as Americans, as a government, to put in place conservation practices?

Davis: I don't favor mandated rationing or mandated conservation. I think that if we let people make their own personal decisions on that, then it is better. The auto makers in Detroit learned a lesson in competition regarding fuel-efficient cars. And it's harder for the government to mandate that than it is for the free enterprise system to respond.

Journal: Your website speaks strongly about conservative values.

Davis: I believe a human life and human being begin at conception. I oppose abortion, I believe we should respect and protect life. I know as a doctor and medical researcher that one does not need to destroy a human embryo to do stem cell research, that there are other sources of stem cells.

When it comes to marriage, I believe marriage should be defined as a union between one man and one woman. I would oppose civil unions if they are same sex marriage by another name.

Edits provided above by Brian in italics.

Vote to Open Oil Fields, Or Else: Rochester Post Bulletin

2008-08-01T16:28:00.003-04:00

Letter to the Editor

Vote to pen up oil fields, or else
7/30/2008 7:32:24 AM

My heating bill arrived today with an increase in my monthly even pay amount for natural gas. It's going up over $100 per month starting in July. Yep, in July.

I called the gas company to ask why. My usage has consistently gone down over the last several years, and again this year, due to a great deal of weatherizing for our home. The lady at the gas company says it's going up now because natural gas prices are expected to rise again sharply for this coming winter.

The oil fields that are not currently open to production also offer natural gas production opportunities.

If Tim Walz won't open up oil and natural gas production, then I am voting for Brian Davis. It's just that simple. I thought the gasoline situation was bad, but now I know it's only part of the story.

Muriel Hanson
Preston

Brian Davis for Congress: Agricultural Policy

2008-08-01T14:54:00.007-04:00

August 01, 2008
Davis and agricultural policy

From the Rochester Post Bulletin Online

Brian Davis, the GOP endorsed candidate for Congress in the First Congressional District, and his campaign's Agricultural Advisory Group, issued an Agricultural Policy Statement today, encompasing a wide range of principles including free and fair trade, protecting and improving Minnesota's water resources, estate and capital gains tax policy. It is also seeks to contrast Davis' positions on agricultural position with those of DFL Congressman Tim Walz.

Free and Fair Trade - Access to markets for agricultural products are key for the survival of agriculture in Minnesota. The recent vote by Congressman Walz and others in Congress against the Columbian Free Trade Agreement is viewed as working in opposition to the important interests of our farmers. According to the U.S. State Department, tariffs on 77 percent of all agricultural tariff lines to Columbia - more than 52 percent of the value of current U.S. farm exports - will be eliminated immediately upon implementation of this important agreement, and the remaining tariffs will be phased out over 19 years. Brian Davis strongly supports increased access to world markets for our agricultural products.

Fuel Prices and Economic Well-Being of Agriculture - The cost of energy and oil affect all aspects of our economy, particularly the agricultural community. Markedly rising input costs have an adverse downstream effect. The full effect has not been felt yet by consumers in the grocery store or with home heating bills. In stark contrast to Congressman Walz's views on domestic oil and natural gas development, Brian Davis and the Advisory Group strongly favor increased development of these resources in the United States, including offshore and in Alaska, as part of the solution to the nation's current energy problems.

Protecting and Improving Minnesota's Water Resources - Clean water and a healthy environment are critical to agriculture and to all residents of Minnesota. Brian is a cancer physician who brings health-care expertise to this issue and he strongly supports reasonable and effective efforts in this area. However, Congressman Walz supports legislation (H.R. 2421) which could trigger the largest-ever expansion of Federal powers over all waters in our state. The current proposed legislation is viewed as an infringement on property rights and would adversely affect local control. This legislation has the potential to undermine agriculture and agriculture-related industry in our District.

Value-Added Agriculture - Minnesota is among the leaders in the development of value-added agriculture and renewable fuels. As an engineer with work experience in the energy industry, Brian understands that we must continue to develop alternative energy sources while supporting efficient and clean use of conventional sources. The energy sector of the First District related to agriculture, including ethanol, biodiesel, and wind power makes rural Minnesota an energy provider and produces a positive economic impact.

Direction of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) - Brian supports the CRP for protecting land that is environmentally sensitive including highly erodible and marginal cropland. Acres that are scheduled to expire from the CRP in the next two years and thereafter that are not environmentally sensitive should be considered for return into agricultural production.

Estate and Capital Gains Tax Policy - The current estate tax that is scheduled to increase on January 1, 2011 will place a tremendous financial burden on families who wish to pass down a farm from one generation to the next, particularly in the current setting of increased land prices where it is difficult to start a farming operation. Likewise, expiration of the capital gains tax rates and their subsequent increase pose an excessive tax burden which will be placed on farmers choosing to sell property and assets. Brian Davis wants to promote an environment where young farmers can continue the family business. Congressman Walz's positions on these tax issues are not helping farmers transfer their assets to our next generation of farmers or to realize the equity built up from years of hard work.

Posted on August 01, 2008 at 01:35 PM Permalink

Washington Post Editorial: No Drilling, No Vote

2008-07-26T01:30:00.003-04:00

Speaker Pelosi won't let the House debate the merits of offshore drilling.
Friday, July 25, 2008; A20

WHY NOT have a vote on offshore drilling? There's a serious debate to be had over whether Congress should lift the ban on drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf that has been in place since 1981. Unfortunately, you won't be hearing it in the House of Representatives -- certainly, you won't find lawmakers voting on it -- anytime soon.

Instead of dealing with the issue on the merits, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), a staunch opponent of offshore drilling, has simply decreed that she will not allow a drilling vote to take place on the House floor. Why not? "What the president would like to do is to have validation for his failed policy," she said yesterday when asked that very question. "What we're saying is, 'Exhaust other remedies, Mr. President.' . . . It is the economic life of America's families, and to suggest that drilling offshore is going to make a difference to them paycheck to paycheck now is a frivolous contention. The president has even admitted that. So what we're saying is, 'What can we do that is constructive?' "

If there is an explanation buried in there about why that makes offshore drilling off-limits for a vote, we missed it. Ms. Pelosi is correct that drilling is no panacea for the nation's energy woes. The short-term effect of lifting the moratorium, if there were any, would be minimal. That doesn't mean the country shouldn't consider expanded drilling as one of many alternatives. There are legitimate concerns about the environmental impact of such drilling -- environmental concerns that, we would note, exist in other regions whose oil Americans are perfectly happy to consume. But have technological improvements made such drilling less risky? Why not have that debate?

When they took the majority, House Democrats proclaimed that "bills should generally come to the floor under a procedure that allows open, full and fair debate consisting of a full amendment process that grants the Minority the right to offer its alternatives." Why not on drilling?

Meanwhile, the dispute has snarled progress on spending bills for fear of having drilling amendments attached. Citing "the uncertainty in how the oil and gas drilling issue is currently playing out on the Senate floor," Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Robert C. Byrd (D-W.Va.) called off committee consideration of spending bills on which Republicans were threatening to offer drilling amendments. The result threatens to be the first time since at least 1950 that lawmakers will go home for the August recess without either chamber having passed a single appropriations bill.

If drilling opponents really have the better of this argument, why are they so worried about letting it come to a vote?

Davis touts conservative values, oil drilling in quest to unseat Walz

2008-07-25T16:17:00.007-04:00

Published - Wednesday, July 23, 2008
By Ryan Henry of the Houston County News

Gas prices in southeastern Minnesota have reached nearly $4/gallon, which not only hits people in the wallet, but has affected the overall economy. That’s why it’s time to start drilling for oil in United States, both offshore and in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, according to Brian Davis.

“It’s been shown, with the oil drilling that’s up there right now, that it can co-exist with wildlife and vegetation,” he said. “They have a pipeline that’s not being used to full capacity.”

Davis, who stopped by the Houston County News office last week, is the Republican-endorsed candidate running for a United States House of Representative seat out of Minnesota. He’ll likely face off with DFLer Tim Walz, who defeated long-time Congressman Gil Gutknecht two years ago. However, he’ll be challenged by Senator Dick Day in a September 9 primary.

Much of the suffering from fuel prices which in turn affect food prices and the housing market is due to Congress’s micro-management of the nation’s energy production, he said.

“We need to have a cheap and clean supply of energy to keep this modern economy moving forward,” Davis said. “Right now, government is really ham-stringing the economy with some of the policies it has in place.”

Davis has experience in the energy industry, both as a student and a full-time engineer. He’s seen what government policy did to the nuclear power industry, although the U.S. produces more energy from nuclear energy than any other country, it still doesn’t have a growing nuclear energy industry like he believes it should.

“I think we need to lift the moratorium on nuclear power in Minnesota,” he said.

He’s also in favor of continuing development of alternative energy sources like ethanol, wind power, solar energy, and bio-diesel.

With healthcare, he believes there needs to be more competition and less government intervention because of the looming crisis with the aging of baby-boomers and unfunded liability of Medicare. He thinks Washington needs people, like himself, who have practical experience with healthcare, which consumes 17 percent of the Gross Domestic Product. And he doesn’t believe the country should adopt a nationalized or socialized healthcare system.

Davis is pro-life and believes it’s important to respect all human life from dawn to sunset. As a doctor, he said he knows embryos don’t need to be destroyed to do stem cell research, and that there are other sources of stem cells, such as bone marrow.

He supports the traditional family, with marriage between a man and a woman. He said he’d support a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, if it’s ever presented.

Davis thinks there’s a problem with illegal immigration in the U.S. There’s thought to be 12 million illegals in the country, but that can’t be known for sure, he said, because local law enforcement agencies haven’t been empowered to check into that. He’s in favor of the border fence Congress authorized, one issue he and Walz differ on.

He has been endorsed by the Republican Party in both Houston and Winona counties. Since 1996, Davis has been a staff physician in the radiation oncology department at Mayo Civic in Rochester, where he lives. He has a wife Lori, and four children.

You’ll have a chance to meet Davis this year in the Applefest King Apple Parade September 21.

All stories copyright 2006 Houston County News and other attributed sources.

Sticks and Stones

2008-07-24T20:40:00.005-04:00

By Mark Fischenich
The Free Press
July 23, 2008

Two years ago, it appeared from Republican press releases that the Democratic candidate for Congress in southern Minnesota went by the initials “LTW.” Virtually every Republican news release referred to “Liberal Tim Walz.”

Walz went on to beat Congressman Gil Gutknecht, so Republican Party Chairman Ron Carey is trying a new one this campaign: “Washington Walz.”

The Democrats are also getting into the name game this time around. Starting this month, Walz’s Republican opponent has become “millionaire Dr. Brian Davis.” The state DFL and the Walz campaign have used it, and the national Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee upped the ante Wednesday by calling him “multi-millionaire Dr. Brian Davis.”

Davis says they’ve got the wrong guy.

“My wife read that and said, ‘I didn’t know we were millionaires,” Davis said. “I don’t believe our total assets, even with our house, that we’re over $1 million.”

Walz open to drilling

And then there are the issues. The Walz and Davis campaigns have been battling over gas and energy prices for weeks, and another sign that it’s an important election issue came with Walz releasing a statement saying he is open to expanded domestic drilling and oil production. Walz said the expanded drilling must be done in a responsible manner and must be part of a bipartisan package that also includes conservation and the rapid development of alternative fuels.

Both Davis and state Sen. Dick Day, who is challenging Davis in the Republican primary election, support expanded drilling and list the fuel topic as the top concern of voters in the 1st District.

Minnesota Voters Want Solutions and Clear Answers to Our Energy Problems Not More Partisanship

2008-07-24T17:20:00.002-04:00

Davis: Walz fails to give Minnesota voters clear answers on his position regarding offshore drilling.

For Immediate Release
July 24, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate for the First District of Minnesota, has called upon Congressman Walz to clarify his stance regarding offshore drilling and development of shale oil. In a recent article in the Star Tribune, Congressman Walz was the only member of Minnesota's Congressional delegation who did not give a clear answer regarding his position on development of shale oil. In addition, he was also unclear regarding his position on offshore drilling.

Dr. Davis stated, "While Minnesotans and the nation are feeling the economic consequences of high gas prices and a suffering economy, Congressman Walz is failing to let Minnesotans know where he stands. Like the majority of Americans, I strongly support offshore drilling and am very encouraged by yesterday's report from the U.S. Geological Survey that estimates there may be up to 90 billion barrels of oil in the arctic that are in unexplored areas, mostly offshore."

Davis continued, "Congress should let the moratoria on offshore drilling expire on September 30 as scheduled and not renew it. We are the only major industrialized country in the world that has the majority of offshore areas off-limits to oil exploration. This is bad for our country and bad for the family budgets in Minnesota's First District."

Brad Biers, the Davis campaign manager added, "Voters in the First District should ask for whom does Tim Walz work? The residents of southern Minnesota or Speaker Pelosi? Many families are struggling with their family budgets and have mounting credit card debt, including Congressman Walz with credit card debt in the neighborhood of a hundred thousand dollars. Congress isn't getting the job done and shouldn't go on its August 1 recess if it can't even vote on this issue of national importance. It's unfortunate, but not surprising, that Congress has the lowest approval rating in the history of polling."

Brian Davis is a physician who treats cancer patients and resides in Rochester with his wife Lori and their four children.

# # #

You can support Brian Davis for Congress HERE !

Rochester Post Bulletin Online Survey: July 21, 2008

2008-07-22T23:42:00.001-04:00

Thanks for taking this survey

Should Congress authorize the construction of more nuclear power plants?

Yes.
259
(72.96%)

No.
96
(27.04%)

Total Replies : 355

No Excuses: It's Time to Drill

2008-07-20T00:01:00.003-04:00

Over to You, Speaker Pelosi
Let's drill. by Matthew Continetti
07/28/2008, Volume 013, Issue 43

Gas is still at $4 a gallon, but the good news is there's an emerging consensus on a measure that would help: Drill for more oil here at home. President Bush dropped the executive ban on offshore oil and natural gas exploration last week, and House GOP leader John Boehner plans to lead a congressional delegation to Colorado and Alaska to highlight America's abundant energy resources this week. Polls show more than two-thirds of the public support increased domestic energy exploration and production. Guess who stands in the way.

Congress has its own ban on offshore energy exploration, and the Democrats who run Congress have shown no sign that they are willing to follow Bush's example. They have preferred to make excuses--about why the price of oil is rising, who is to blame for its rise, and why increasing domestic supply won't do anything to ameliorate the problem.

It isn't working. Democrats are losing the fight over gas prices, and they know it, too.

They have slowly changed positions as the absurdity of their arguments has become clear. First they ignored the problem altogether. Earlier this summer, Senate Democrats wasted time debating a carbon cap-and-trade scheme that would have raised energy prices dramatically at a time when those prices were already at record highs. Cap and trade crashed and burned.
For a long while, Democrats simply blamed the oil companies for the spike in gasoline prices. They proposed new windfall profits taxes on "Big Oil," which would of course be passed on to the consumer, making gasoline even more expensive. They even threatened to sue OPEC. Nonstarters all. The price of oil didn't drop.

Then the Democrats--and, to their discredit, plenty of Republicans--decided to scapegoat "speculators." The thinking here is that commodities traders have a financial interest in watching prices go up. Well, some do. Others--those betting prices will fall--do not. The fact that there are traders of oil futures has nothing to do with why those prices increase. The "speculators" just make bets on where the price of a commodity will be by a certain date. This year, the bets on higher oil prices have been good because the falling dollar, rising global demand, and political instability in the Middle East and Africa are driving the price of this particular commodity upward.

When ignorance and finger-pointing didn't work, Democrats dusted off the law of supply and demand. But they refused to acknowledge that one of the best ways to increase supply is to expand America's production capacity by opening new territory to exploration. Rather, they demanded that Bush release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, forgetting that the reserve is called "strategic" for a reason. It's meant to be used in a national emergency. Bush has stopped new shipments to the reserve, increasing supply on the (microscopic) margins.
Meanwhile, New York senator Charles Schumer demanded that other oil-producing nations increase production in order to lower U.S. gas prices. If only the Saudis "produced half a million barrels more oil a day," Schumer said, "the price would come down a very significant amount." Maybe so. But why rely on the Saudis? Why not take steps to increase our own supply? Are we dependents?

The Democrats' next tack was to suggest that the oil companies are sitting on millions of acres of oil and not doing anything about it. Last week House Democrats tried to pass a "use it or lose it" law that would have denied federal land leases to oil companies if the companies couldn't demonstrate that they were producing energy on existing plots. The bill was rejected, and for good reasons. For one, there is already a "use it or lose it" provision in federal law. For another, the bill was premised on the idea that 4.8 million barrels of oil a day could be extracted from these "unused" lands. Boehner has asked Speaker Pelosi where this unsubstantiated statistic comes from. She hasn't said. That is because the number is a joke.

Finally, Democrats are attacking the pro-drilling folks for thinking ahead. Exploring deposits on the continental shelf "wouldn't produce a drop of oil for seven years or longer," wrote Senator Dianne Feinstein. Nobel laureate Al Gore said last week, "It is only a truly dysfunctional system that would buy into the perverse logic that the short-term answer to high gasoline prices is drilling for more oil ten years from now."

Leave aside, for a moment, the fact that no one is saying drilling is a short-term answer to the long-term energy challenge. Recall, instead, that Feinstein and Gore are simply echoing what critics say every time the drilling issue arises. Whether it is twenty or ten years ago or today, the answer is always, "You won't see anything for ten years." Okay, then. But if we had drilled ten years ago, wouldn't those supplies be on the market today?

No one pretends that drilling will solve all our problems overnight. But it will send a powerful signal to the markets that America is serious about energy and the global economy. It will send a signal that we are taking action, that we are not helpless. The 25-year boom of the 1980s and 1990s coincided with, and to an extent depended on, an era of cheap and plentiful energy. To get there again requires favoring the national interest over the parochial interests of environmentalists. No excuses. It's time to drill.

--Matthew Continetti, for the Editors

© Copyright 2008, News Corporation, Weekly Standard, All Rights Reserved.

Walz Says No to Offshore Drilling, Sides with Partisan Politics, Not the People's Pocketbook

2008-07-18T12:41:00.000-04:00

Davis: Speaker Pelosi's energy bill is a farce. Congressman Walz should break with his party leadership and represent the interests of Minnesota.

For Immediate Release
July 18, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate for the First District of Minnesota, denounced Congress' inability to pass meaningful energy legislation during the current session. By voting in favor of Roll Call vote 509, Congressman Walz voted against allowing a vote on offshore drilling and opening of other federal lands to oil exploration.

Dr. Davis stated, "Put simply, Speaker Pelosi's energy plan is a farce. It opens no new areas to offshore drilling by keeping over ninety percent of areas off-limits. By participating in this charade, Tim Walz is not representing the interests of our District but those of a radical environmental agenda."

Davis continued, "Every time someone fills up their tank, they should consider who represents them in Washington. It's clear that Tim Walz is following his party leadership in Washington when it's not in the best interest of our District. Every day we put off opening up American areas to drilling is another day energy independence is pushed further into the future. It's like telling Minnesota farmers, if you want food tomorrow, don't plant in the spring, because you won't have anything to harvest until the Fall. With unemployment and inflation rising, and home valuea and the worth of retirement savings declining, Minnesotans deserve action now, not continued shortsightedness from Tim Walz."

"We need to initiate meaningful energy solutions which include opening up new areas to oil exploration," reiterated Davis. "Congressman Walz informs constituents that we must 'move beyond fossil fuels.' In the short term, this is simply impractical and naïve when 85% of the energy we use in this country is from these energy sources."

Brian Davis trained as an engineer, receiving a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering and Master's and Ph.D. degrees in Mechanical Engineering. In addition, he has several years of work experience in the electric power industry. Currently, he is a physician who treats cancer patients and resides in Rochester with his wife Lori and their four children.

# # #

You can support Brian Davis for Congress HERE !

Letter from a Concerned Citizen: Congressman Walz is Bluffing and is Beholden to an Impractical and Extremist Environmental Agenda

2008-07-18T12:06:00.005-04:00

The following was sent to our campaign from a concerned citizen:

Dear Mr. R,

Thank you for contacting me regarding domestic oil production. I appreciate hearing from you.

The rapid increase in gas prices is putting a serious strain on all Americans. A number of factors contribute to the high cost of gasoline, including the growing global demand for crude oil, the limited capacity within the United States for refineries, and market uncertainty regarding the threat of supply disruption due to conflicts in the Middle East.

While there are no quick fixes, Congress is currently considering a number of proposals to address rising fuel costs. As part of these proposals, some suggest that by opening up more areas for drilling within the United States we can lower gas prices and reduce our dependence on foreign imports.

Instead of rushing to open new areas for drilling, I believe that oil companies should make use of the land they already have available. Today, oil companies hold leases to about 92 million acres of federally-owned land, both onshore and offshore. Roughly 67 million of those acres-more than 70 percent of the area they own the rights to-are not being used for production. These are areas that oil companies are authorized to start drilling, which have the potential to produce an additional 4.8 million barrels of oil and 44.7 billion cubic feet of natural gas each day, nearly double total US oil production.

I have supported legislation in Congress that tells the oil companies to "use it or lose it," and either make use of the land they have leased, or turn it over to a company that will. Unfortunately, while this should provide some relief in the medium term, most experts agree that we cannot drill our way out of the current energy crisis.

That's why I believe that we should be harnessing American ingenuity and innovation to develop long term solutions to our current energy crisis. By developing renewable resources such as wind and solar power, biofuels, and geothermal heat, we can move beyond fossil fuels to an energy policy which is sustainable, renewable and produced in America by American workers. Rest assured that as Congress continues to debate these issues, I will keep your views in mind.

Thank you again for sharing your views with me, and I look forward to hearing from you again in the future. For more information about my activities representing southern Minnesota in Congress, please visit http://walz.house.gov and sign up for my e-newsletter.

Sincerely,

Tim Walz
Member of Congress

***************************************************************

Nice bluff Congresmen Walz. No wonder Congressional approval ratings are in the upper teens.

Your (or maybe Nancy Pelosi's) paragraph on having oil companies make use of the land that they already have available is very misleading. To come up with this statistic, you assume that roughly 23 million acres of federal land are producing 1.6 million barrels each day. Since roughly three times as many federal acres are leased to oil companies you assume that the US could be producing three times as much oil, which is the 4.8 million barrels of oil that you get.

However, oil and gas are not going to be found under each and every acre. Also, oil production in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska has been stalled by groups like the Sierra Club.

Don't count on bluffing the residents of the 1st Congressional District too long!

We Need to Increase Our Domestic Oil Production: About Those Estimates

2008-07-17T00:33:00.006-04:00

From the U.S. Department of Interior, Mineral Management Service

Assessment of Undiscovered Technically Recoverable
Oil and Gas Resources of the Nation’s Outer Continental
Shelf, 2006

Using a play-based assessment
methodology, the Minerals Management
Service estimated a mean of
85.9 billion barrels of undiscovered
recoverable oil and a mean of 419.9
trillion cubic feet of undiscovered
recoverable natural gas in the
Federal Outer Continental Shelf of
the United States.

...
This assessment provides estimates of the undiscovered,
technically and economically recoverable oil and natural gas
resources located outside of known oil and gas fields on the
OCS.

From an editorial in the Albert Lea Tribune regarding these estimates: But these are only estimates. Without allowing American oil companies to explore these regions, we won’t know how much is there.

It's time to Drill Here! And Drill Now! Sign our Petition! And contribute to our campaign here!

Letter to the Editor: Liberals like Walz will hurt the price of oil

2008-07-13T16:40:00.002-04:00

Published Saturday, July 12, 2008

Please refer to our 1st District Congressman Tim Walz’s article printed in our Tribune on June 26 titled “Why isn’t Big Oil using leases it already has?”

A question such as his only indicates his lack of knowledge on the economics of the oil industry. If his proposals become law, we will be paying much more than $4 per gallon for gasoline. Yes, the oil companies do own the rights to drill on federal land. However, most of this land does not contain “proven” petroleum reserves, and it would be prohibitively expensive to drill on at this time. There is only so much capital available to explore for new sources of oil and that capital must be spent where the best chances of recovery can be found. With modern exploratory techniques, finding new reserves is much more scientific than it was 20 years ago. Why drill where there are chances of finding a small amount of oil when that capital can be better used in finding larger, and less expensive, quantities in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska?

Rep. Walz accuses “Big Oil” of price gouging. Just who is “Big Oil?” It’s a group of common stockholders who have pooled their resources in an effort to bring energy to the marketplace. To do this is a very expensive operation with a high degree of risk. If we were to eliminate the total profits of the major oil companies, we would still be paying about $3.70 per gallon rather than the current $4. Of this approximately 30 cents per gallon gross profit, only about 13 cents is distributed in dividends and the other 17 cents goes toward the exploration for additional petroleum reserves. The final “yield” (dividend) to the stockholder averages about 3 percent in today’s marketplace. To discourage further investment in the oil industry by threatening the real producers of energy is highly counterproductive. If you want higher gasoline prices, follow the advice of our current Congressman Tim Walz, who advocates killing the goose who has been laying the golden egg since the discovery of oil at Titusville, Penn., in 1859.

Not only are Tim Walz and his fellow liberals in Congress attempting to discourage development of the cheapest and most available sources of energy, they also want to subsidize sources that are not economically viable at this time. Tim should better educate himself on the subject of energy before he attempts to sell a counterproductive policy to his constituents. No time in our country’s history have we needed better leadership on the subject of energy.

Charles Foster
Albert Lea

© 2008 Albert Lea Tribune, Inc. All rights

Worthington Daily Globe Editorial: Davis in the Hunt

2008-07-10T22:18:00.004-04:00

Worthington Daily Globe
Published Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Brian Davis may be a political novice — he has never held public office — but he certainly appears poised to give incumbent First District Rep. Tim Walz a good run in November.

Davis has been on the scene raising money in his bid to challenge Walz for nearly a year now and, perhaps more importantly, is the GOP-endorsed candidate for the district. Currently a Mayo Clinic physician and a one-time engineer in the electric industry, Davis will face a primary challenge from District 26 Sen. Dick Day, but it appears evident that Davis has the momentum at this juncture.

Though Davis didn’t talk about it while visiting the Daily Globe recently, he’s extremely well educated. He has master’s and doctorate degrees in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and he earned his M.D. at the University of Illinois in Chicago.

Along with that pedigree comes the type of conservatism that helped Republican Gil Gutknecht return repeatedly to Washington to serve this district before his loss to newcomer Walz in 2006. Davis is already urging Congress — and fellow Republicans — to pass a new Federal Taxpayer Bill of Rights that would cap federal spending. To reform health care, he wants to (in part) guarantee more competition, not less. He wants more domestic oil and natural and gas exploration, and less government-imposed conservation mandates. He favors immediate construction of a southern border fence and, intriguingly, favors referendums in Iraq and Afghanistan regarding our continued military presence there.

Davis clearly poses a contrast to Walz. Time will tell if voters see that as favorable.

Letter to the Editor: Tim Walz fails to grasp U.S. needs for oil

2008-07-10T21:47:00.003-04:00

Albert Lea Tribune

Published Tuesday, July 8, 2008

The view of Congressman Tim Walz as reported in the Albert Lea Tribune on July 4 is a disgrace and lacks understanding of our oil needs.

1. Congressman Walz sided with rich coastal liberal elites whose limos and planes eat gas, but do they care?

2. Midwest farmers, factories and drivers depend on steady oil needs and prices, based on the market. (Prices need to go down.)

3. President Bush has long sought more drilling and oil for Americans.

4. Oil firms’ profits should encourage more drilling, refining, etc., and more oil now, which the U.S. needs as soon as possible.

5. Oil firms are mainly owned by pensions funds, IRAs and mutual funds.

6. More oil taxes are likely to be passed on to consumers and elites know all this, but feel average Americans should cut back.

7. All persons want wind, solar conservation, etc., but oil is now more realistic for average Americans and for many years to come. Alternatives yes, but more oil now ASAP.

8. Speculators buy and hold oil in anticipation of higher prices — which the plans of Walz and his liberal rich coastal elites will foster! They don’t produce more oil.

9. More drilling in new places found to have real potential is needed now to get oil? Oil leases with potential now are needed.

There is hope in Minnesota. First Congressional District Dr. Brian Davis has strongly supported more oil drilling, nuclear, coal, etc. Dr. Davis is also a medical expert, and we need to vote for him in 2008. There is hope, but we need to change the U.S. Congress majority in 2008.

Tom Schleck

Albert Lea

Letter to the Editor: Fresh ideas come from candidate

2008-07-09T23:09:00.005-04:00

Published in the Houston County News, July 9, 2008

Brian Davis

TO THE EDITOR,

Brian Davis is the best and brightest of candidates running for Congress this year. He is a husband, a father of four, holds a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, a doctorate in mechanical engineering, and is a medical doctor at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. That is the short list of his credits.

More importantly, he is a caring person who feels for those who are suffering from the mismanagement of our government.

A recent letter to the editor expressed anger toward actions by our current Congress and wanted to have Dr. Davis share the blame. Nothing could be further from the truth. Brian Davis is a true fiscal conservative and understands family values. He is a refreshing departure from politics as usual. Brian has suggested new and innovative ways to deal with the energy crisis.

The federal government, both Republicans and Democrats, share in the responsibility for sky-rocketing costs. They have overspent. Rep. Tim Walz, the man who currently represents Congressional District 1, is in the top tier in Congress for liberal spending. Rep. Tim Walz has received huge sums of money for his re-election from special-interest groups, who are thanking him for his votes. Some estimate Tim Walz has raised at least $2 million for campaign spending. Do you think it all came from grateful Minnesotans?

Brian Davis is raising funds the old fashioned way: one convinced voter at a time. Voters of any age can support a candidate with fresh ideas, and Brian Davis' ideas are energizing voters across the district. If you really want new ideas, go to briandavisforcongress.com/Home.aspx. Brian Davis is a candidate who will make us proud we sent him to Congress.

Paul Ibisch,

La Crescent

Stewartville Star: Davis says U.S. should drill for more oil offshore, in ANWR

2008-07-08T16:49:00.002-04:00

Candidate for U.S. House visits Stewartville
Mark Peterson Editor

Monday, July 07, 2008

The United States can become much more energy independent by drilling for oil in areas Congress has deemed off limits, Republican First Congressional District U.S. Rep. candidate Brian Davis said last week.

Davis will face Republican state Sen. Dick Day in a Sept. 9 primary to determine who will run against Democratic incumbent Tim Walz in this November's general election. Davis spoke about his energy policy differences with Walz during a visit to the offices of the Stewartville STAR last week.

Up to 100 billion barrels of oil are available in offshore areas near the United States, and many billion barrels more could be found in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), Davis said.

Drilling for more oil at home would decrease America's dependence on foreign oil and improve the U.S. economy, Davis said. However, Democrats in Congress have blocked proposed increases in domestic oil production, voting down proposals to drill for oil in offshore areas and in ANWR, Davis said.

"It's environmental radicalism that we're paying for at the gas pump," he said.

Davis criticized Walz's record of taxing and spending, saying that Walz ranks 394th among the 435 members of Congress on the Club For Growth Scale, which rates each lawmaker's votes on economic growth issues."Washington taxes too much and spends it all and then some," Davis said.

Davis, a physician at the Mayo Clinic since 1996, has called for a national policy to address the overabundance of malpractice lawsuits against doctors."Malpractice is driving doctors and hospitals out of business, which hurts our access to quality care," he said.

He is also calling for health care reform, saying that healthy individuals should be allowed to take their health insurance policies with them from job to job, across state lines or into retirement.

Also, people who make choices to live healthier lifestyles should be rewarded with lower insurance premiums, he said.

Davis said he believes the U.S. must stay on the offense against radical Islam in Iraq and Afghanistan, but he said he would favor allowing the Iraqi and Afghan people the opportunity to vote in referendums to determine whether they want American soldiers to stay.

"It's apparent that the surge has worked," he said. "It has given the government of Iraq a chance to become more stable."Davis describes himself as pro-life, stating in a campaign brochure that he will always vote in Congress to protect life and emphasizing that he will never backtrack from that position.

"We need to respect life and protect life," he said. More than 1 million babies are aborted each year in the United States, Davis said. Even so, some candidates look at abortion as just another political issue to the polled, spun and used in an election campaign, he said."It was once said that a civilization will be judged by how it treats those in the dawn of life and the sunset of life," he wrote in a campaign brochure. "I agree."

Davis said he is against embryonic stem cell research, saying that scientists can move closer to finding cures for various diseases without destroying human embryos in the process.

He defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman. Marriage, he said, is a fundamental building block of society."If civil unions are same-sex marriages by another name, then I am opposed to them," he said.

The California Supreme Court's recent decision to overturn the vote of the people and allow same-sex marriage is "a travesty," he said."If given the opportunity to vote on a constitutional amendment on this subject, I would vote in favor of defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman," he said.

Davis has put more than 40,000 miles on his car since he began campaigning for Walz's seat. As of last week, he had marched in 21 parades and planned to take part in Stewartville's Fourth of July Summerfest parade.

Davis earned a bachelor of science degree in nuclear engineering at the University of Illinois and worked for three years as an engineer in the electric power industry.

He and his wife Lori, an emergency medicine physician at the Mayo Clinic, have four children.

(Posted 7/13)

Republican Party of Minnesota Praises Davis Fundraising

2008-07-08T16:47:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday July 07, 2008

CONTACT: GINA COUNTRYMAN651-222-0022

Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Ron Carey today released the following statement regarding Dr. Brian Davis’ 2nd Quarter fundraising results.

“Dr. Davis’ strong fundraising quarter shows he has the support of a wide base of Republicans. He has been working hard, traveling the district, and his message of energy security, improved health care, and lower taxes is resonating with voters in the First Congressional District. I am confident he will not only win the primary in September, but defeat Tim Walz in November.”
Brian Davis Raised $391,000 In The Second Quarter. (Frederic Frommer, “Davis Raises Nearly $400,000 In Latest Period, Associated Press, July 7, 2008)

By Comparison, Tim Walz Had Raised Only $195,000 In The Second Quarter Of 2006. (www.fec.gov)

(Posted 7/13)

Brian Davis: Record Fundraising in the 2nd Quarter

2008-07-07T10:46:00.005-04:00

Brian Davis for Congress Raises $391,601 in the 2nd Quarter in Minnesota's CD1 Race

For immediate release
July 7, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, released his second quarter fundraising numbers for 2008.

During the second quarter - April 1 to June 30 - Brian Davis for Congress had $391,601 in total receipts. Total contributions from individuals were over $268,000, more than any quarter reported by the freshman incumbent, Congressman Tim Walz. Davis reported $376,718 cash-on-hand at the end of the quarter and $21,150 of political party and other PAC donations.

Since winning the Party's endorsement on March 29, 2008, the campaign continues to build momentum as the number of total donations nearly tripled. Stated Davis, "We're pleased by the strong support we're receiving. We continue working to unify the party behind our campaign." The Davis campaign received contributions from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), the Republican Party of Minnesota, the Minnesota First Congressional District Committee, and Republican party county organizations and activists across the entire First District.

"Our fundraising numbers reflect the support we're receiving from activists and concerned citizens in Minnesota. Voters are responding to our message focused on finding solutions to gas prices, energy, and an out-of-control federal budget." said Davis.

Brad Biers, the Davis campaign manager commented, "We're happy with our grass roots campaign because nearly 90% of the individual donations received were from Minnesota residents and half of all donations received this quarter were $50 or less. This contrasts sharply with the Walz campaign where a much greater portion of their fundraising comes from out-of-state PACs, the type of PACs that are frequently out-of-step with mainstream Minnesota values."

Brian and his wife, Lori, live in Rochester with their four children.
###

Rochesterfest Parade - Friday, June 27

2008-06-29T20:42:00.004-04:00

From Left to Right: Randy Demmer, Jason Johnson, Bill Kuisle, Dave Senjem, Brian Davis and Jake Dettinger

Minnesotans need real solutions to gas prices

2008-06-29T11:49:00.006-04:00

Brian Davis, U.S. Congress Candidate, Worthington Daily Globe
Published Monday, June 30, 2008

ROCHESTER — As the price of oil and gas reach record levels and Minnesotans feel it in their pocketbooks, and small businesses in their bottom line, it’s the same old story in Congress: The Blame Game.

Congressman Walz’s strategy, based on his column last week, is to lay the blame on partisan politics and “Big Oil.”

Have the oil companies made big profits lately at the expense of us? Yes. Will the oil companies continue to have record profits as long as demand outpaces production? Yes.

But instead of throwing around blame, let’s talk about real solutions. Otherwise, $6-a-gallon gasoline could be just around the corner.

Affordable energy is the lifeblood of a modern economy. In the United States, over 90 percent of the energy consumed in transportation, heating and electricity comes from four sources: oil, coal, natural gas, and nuclear power. In oil production, we are the world’s third-largest producer behind Saudi Arabia and Russia. Our coal reserves are the largest of any nation and we produce more nuclear energy on a yearly basis than anyone else. In Minnesota, we are among the leaders in the U.S. in ethanol and wind power production. It should be clear that we need to develop and maintain all sources of energy to keep our economy moving, not just one energy source or the other.

The United States has over 1.7 billion acres of offshore areas where nearly 95 percent have been closed to oil exploration since 1982. The Atlantic Coast, eastern Gulf of Mexico, Pacific and most of the Alaskan Coasts are off-limits. According to published Congressional research, these areas have an estimated total of over 80 billion barrels of oil. But, these are only estimates. Without allowing American oil companies to explore these regions, we won’t know how much is there.
What do Congressman Walz and others in Congress offer?

Blocking increased development of domestic oil supply in federal areas in all but a small portion of those available.Legislation that doesn’t produce one drop more of oil.

Cap-and-trade regulatory schemes for utilities and industries that will ultimately tax Americans trillions of dollars and hit rural electric cooperatives particularly hard.

More hearings and investigations.

Nationalizing the oil and refinery industries in the United States.

Unfortunately, the politicians in Congress have stood in the way of developing more energy sources in this country. In my view, we should:

Open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) where an estimated 10 billion barrels of oil exist. There already exists a pipeline in the adjacent Prudhoe Bay region, which contributes over 15 percent to our domestic oil supply. In 1995, President Clinton blocked development of ANWR and in 2002 and 2008 Congress blocked development of this area again.

Open the Outer Continental Shelf to safe oil and natural gas exploration — currently only 4 percent of the region is open and 60 percent of Americans favor its development.

Build more refinery capacity.

Reduce regulatory barriers to increase nuclear power production, a proven clean and safe form of electricity generation.

Continue to promote and develop alternative fuels and energy sources including ethanol, biodiesel and wind power.

As the endorsed Republican candidate in our First Congressional District, I hear daily the personal stories of Minnesotans who are being negatively impacted by the lack of leadership from the politicians in Washington. As individuals and our Nation feel the economic straitjacket tightening, we are faced with difficult choices. Americans deserve to know what solutions our elected representatives offer so that our future is secure and our children will know the American dream.

In reality, this is a debate that reveals the stark contrast between those who have lost faith in America’s ability to do great things and those of us who know we can.

We must move forward with developing additional American energy supplies, the sooner the better.

Brian Davis trained as a nuclear engineer and worked in the nuclear power industry. He is a physician and a Rochester resident.

Posted on 'Let Freedom Ring'

2008-06-25T23:28:00.008-04:00

Where’s the Proof, Rep. Walz???

Last week, Rep. Tim Walz came out against expanding oil exploration. That isn’t shocking in the least bit. What it is, though, is proof that Rep. Walz consistently buys into the liberal line. that’s why MN-1 needs to retire him this November.

U.S. Rep. Tim Walz said President Bush’s efforts to pressure Congress to lift a federal ban on some offshore oil drilling would do nothing to move the United States in the direction of a sensible energy policy or substantially lower gas prices.

Calling the issue a red herring, the first-term Democrat also said he was prepared to call oil companies’ bluff. He said federal law should be changed to penalize oil companies for not using the leases they already have.

Federal law already stipulates that an oil company must sink a producing well within 10 years or lose the lease. The legislation Walz supports would deprive oil companies of the ability to lease new federal offshore areas until they’ve drilled on all their existing leases, an aide said.

“This idea, this red herring, that all of a sudden you’re going to drill and everything is going to be better, as if the market fundamentals are at work here, that’s not happening,” Walz said. “These are the same people that are (getting) $40 billion in profit.”

First of all, what proof is Rep. Walz using in saying that increasing oil production won’t affect gas prices at the pump? Is he basing his opinion on market principles or is he basing this off the talking points the Environmental lobby has given him to speak from?

One thing that I know is that his opinion isn’t based on this study:
These restrictions effectively banned new offshore energy production off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, parts of offshore Alaska, and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Recent DOI estimates put the amount of energy in these off-limits areas at 19.1 billion barrels of oil and 83.9 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, approximately 30 years’ worth of imports from Saudi Arabia and enough natural gas to power America’s homes for 17 years. It should also be noted that these initial estimates tend to be low.

OCS restrictions are a relic of the past. They were put in place at a time when energy was cheap, the need for additional domestic supplies was not seen as dire, and the political path of least resistance was to give in to environmentalists. All that has changed, with more than a quadrupling of oil and natural gas prices since the restrictions were first imposed. Extra energy is badly needed, and the risk of producing it has been reduced. All new drilling would be subject to strict safeguards and would require state-of-the-art technology with a proven track record for limiting the risk of spills.

Conclusion

The President can bring America one step closer to accessing promising sources of domestic oil and natural gas for decades to come. He should lift the existing executive moratorium against OCS exploration. More important, Congress must show the nation that it is serious about meeting our energy needs by supporting the production of American energy from American waters.

Is Rep. Walz willing to argue that tapping into the equivalent of 30 years worth of imported Saudi oil and enough natural gas to power America’s homes for 17 years won’t have a serious impact on home heating and gas prices? If he’s willing to argue against this study, then that’s grounds for questioning his objectivity and his competence to serve Minnesota’s First District. Minnesota’s First District can’t afford that type of irresponsible behavior from its representative. No legislative district should be forced to suffer through such irresponsible behavior.

This is why policies matter. That’s why voters do themselves a disservice in not vetting the candidates enough on the issues. Tim Walz never was qualified to represent anyone in the Unite States House of Representatives. The proof is in how uninformed he is and irresponsibly he’s acting on the most important issue of this election cycle.

Fortunately, the First District has a choice this time because Brian Davis takes this issue seriously:

Davis said gas prices might not automatically drop if the country drills for more oil domestically. But they almost certainly will go up if the country does nothing to further develop its domestic oil reserves, he maintains.

“I repeatedly hear from Congressman Walz that markets fail. He has an adversarial relationship, it appears, with corporate America. It doesn’t seem as if he understands the free market and supply and demand,” Davis said.

Residents of Minnesota’s first district owe it to themselves and to each other whether they want someone who believes in capitalism or if they want someone who doesn’t understand or is ambivalent towards capitalism.

I seriously doubt that people think highly of a legisltor who is indifferent to the principles of capitalism. That means there’s only one real choice. That means voting for Brian Davis.
letfreedomringblog.com Categories: Economy, Energy, Environmental Extremism, Election 2008, Tim Walz

John Adams Letter to the Editor: Rochester Post Bulletin

2008-06-20T00:54:00.003-04:00

The truth about global warming
6/13/2008

I attended the State Republican Convention at Rochester's Mayo Civic Center. The proudest moment for me was when the entire assembly gave congressional candidate Brian Davis a standing ovation for stating that he doesn't buy into the theory of human caused global warming.

Dr. Davis, a scientist himself, knows there has never been a consensus among scientists. Dr. Davis knows that 31,000 scientists have signed a petition saying supporters of man-made global warming are using questionable science to support their theory. He knows that 30 years ago these same scientists predicted global cooling.

While Tim Walz and many politicians foolishly embrace the destruction of our economy by throwing taxpayer dollars at a problem that doesn't exist, Brian Davis stands courageously against radical government fads like global warming and other government scams that have already raised the price of gas and heating fuels beyond what many families can afford.

Brian Davis's pronouncement is truly refreshing. He will make a great common-sense congressman.

John Adams

Comment: Drill Here Drill Now. Weather will always be changing regardless of what we do. From Center-Right

Roger and Me

2008-06-18T06:57:00.002-04:00

Storms are just hitting here, and you should be just getting home. Ya have a great crew Brian. On the way home after we left you, Charlene and I commented to each other, what a fun evening we had today. You're a great candidate, and if people are thinking and listening, you should win by a landslide.
RM

Buffalo Days in Luverne

2008-06-09T00:47:00.005-04:00

Brian marched in his fourth parade this past weekend in Luverne! There are many more to follow!

Brianna, Greg, Brian, Bill, David and Erik.

Why isn't Congressman Walz Providing Real Solutions to our Transporation Needs?

2008-06-06T19:51:00.002-04:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182
June 6, 2008

(Winona, MN) - Despite appearing at the closed Highway 43 Bridge in Winona near the Mississippi river, Congressman Tim Walz has failed to propose any real solutions to our transportation needs, especially as it concerns finding relief for working families in southern Minnesota and the burden of high gas prices.

As residents of southern Minnesota continue to empty their wallets trying to pay for gasoline that is nearing $4 per gallon, Rep. Walz continues to vote against proposals to address America's energy crisis.

"Tim Walz' speaking about the needs of the people of southern Minnesota while using the Highway 43 bridge as a backdrop does nothing to solve our transportation and energy crisis," said First Congressional District Republican candidate Brian Davis. "He is ignoring the fact that the price of gas has risen over 70% since he was sworn into office and he continues to do nothing to address this unfortunate situation."

"There are solutions to our energy needs," continued Davis. "We must develop more domestic oil supplies and increase our refinery capacity because southern Minnesota residents demand action now."

# # #

A Conservativie Energy Plan

2008-06-04T19:10:00.005-04:00

Minnesota Republican Party State Convention, May 31, 2008

________________________________

"Past predictions of a limited supply of oil have often proved wrong. Offshore areas along the U.S. coastline and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska have an estimated 100 billion barrels of crude oil, enough to provide all U.S. transportation needs for more than a decade."

Brian Davis, Rochester Post Bulletin, April 30, 2008

____________________________________________________________________

by Dan Kish
A Conservative Energy Policy

June 3, 2008

When Ronald Reagan accepted his party’s nomination in 1980, he said that America’s energy policy was based on the sharing of scarcity, and that our great nation had to get to work producing more energy.

“Large amounts of oil and natural gas lay beneath our land and off our shores, untouched because the present administration seems to believe the American people would rather see more regulation, taxes and controls than more energy, he said. “It must not be thwarted by a tiny minority opposed to economic growth which often finds friendly ears in regulatory agencies for its obstructionist campaigns.

”When Ronald Reagan spoke these words he was describing President Jimmy Carter’s disastrous policies that ransacked family budgets, cost jobs and robbed Americans of hope. They could just as easily be spoken today about the Bush Administration, the Congress, and the candidates vying to become president this election year. On the energy front, it seems, the classically successful principles of less government and more self-initiative been replaced by a myth of resource scarcity and helplessness. Government now, as then, has created a massive energy problem. And now, as then, it wants people to believe it also has the solution. Well, as Reagan put it, “government is not the solution to the problem; government is the problem.”

On January 1, 1970, Richard Nixon signed the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which allowed the federal government - or a liberal judge - to veto or delay indefinitely any energy project of any kind. Coincidentally, 1970 was the year when America produced the most oil in its history and imported only 12 percent of its needs.

Nearly a decade later to the day, President Jimmy Carter Jimmy Carter signed the Alaska Lands Act, the law that closed ANWR and - in one fell swoop - took more taxpayer -owned government lands out of our energy resource portfolio than any other time in history. It was the fitting and symbolic end of the decade that set us on the course for the energy collision we face today. U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil had reached 40 percent.

The list of laws enacted in between are on are an alphabet soup of government activism that continues to restrict our access to American energy today. They include the Clean Air Act of 1970 (CAA); the Clean Water Act of 1972 (CWA); the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (CZMA); and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA), just to name a few. And while everyone wants to save animals from extinction, breathe clean air, drink clean water and avoid toxic substances, these laws and their successors have been used by opponents of U.S. energy production as a means to an end -- to stop domestic production of our economy’s lifeblood and promote scarcity.

Ronald Reagan initially made some progress against energy suicide of the 1980’s by using the tools he had to reduce regulations and direct more energy development on taxpayer-owned federal lands. But the Congress struck back, and in 1982, added a rider to a spending bill that prohibited energy leasing on 85% of the outer continental shelf surrounding the lower 48 states.

For the twenty-six years since, Congress has voted each year, every year, to continue these bans and continue our dependency on foreign oil. And, to burnish his kinder, gentler credentials, President George H.W. Bush imposed his own moratorium in 1990, which President Clinton extended until 2012, and which President Geor ge W. Bush has yet to repeal, despite the looming promise of economic ruin for families caused by our energy supply imbalance. Today, America remains the only developed country in the world that shoots itself in the foot in such fashion.

In 1987, when President Reagan asked Congress to open ANWR along with a required report showing that it could be done safely and help supply 1 million barrels per day, Congress ignored him, and instead expanded the amount of wilderness in the US greatly, taking even more lands away from energy production. Congress did finally pass a bill to open a small piece of ANWR in 1995, but President Clinton vetoed it.

America is the Saudi Arabia of oil shale deposits. With the 2 trillion barrels of oil we could extract, the US could run for 250 years on that source alone. Unfortunately, the best deposits lie under nationalized lands in the West, and the Congress passed a law in 2007 making it illegal to lease the lands for energy development.

Ditto for our coal resources; the US the Saudi Arabia of coal. Last year, Hollywood’s Henry Waxman slipped a provision into law that will block government – the biggest single user of energy – from buying any alternative fuels made from coal. Germany ran its war machine on the stuff throughout WWII, and South Africa has been making coal into su bstitute petroleum for decades. We could too, but for our government.

Today, America only uses 3% of its offshore areas to produce energy, and only 6% of government lands onshore. The US now imports more oil than ever, produces less oil than it did before WWII, and is sending over half a trillion dollars a year to a lot of people who don’t like what our country stands for.

Ronald Reagan’s stand that our nation’s future “should not be thwarted by a tiny minority opposed to economic growth.” Is as true today as it was when he uttered it 28 years ago. That tiny minority has hidden their agenda behind the environment movement and thus grown to control our nation’s energy decisions made in Washington, and it shows in every American’s energy bill.

With gasoline prices and utility bills finally awakening the Sleeping Giant of the American people, the creators of the current US energy mess are pointing their fingers here…there…and everywhere.

They say “we can’t drill our way to cheaper gasoline” to hide the fact that they won’t let anyone drill here in the US. They argue adding 70,000 barrels of oil per day from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve – sequestered from use - will help lower prices at the pump but Ronald Reagan’s 1987 recommendation to open ANWR’s million barrels per day will not.

They pass bills to enable suits against OPEC for withholding supplies, while their congressional websites brim with press releases about how they voted to stop energy in Alaska, in our OCS, in the Rocky Mountains or wherever some group that objects to more American energ y production objects to more American energy production.

Here’s the truth Ronald Reagan understood but Washington’s central planners don’t want you to know about: God blessed North America with huge energy resources, probably rivaling those of any other continent. Free the American people to use their brains, technology and hard work to access the energy that government has put off limits.

Let’s actually make it economically attractive to produce energy at home. Legalize the coal, oil shale, oil sands, methane hydrates (a frozen natural gas that dwarfs all other energy resources on earth), uranium, hydropower and all of the exotic alternative energy potential we have, and get off the backs of all the people whose job it is to supply this country with the energy that provides us the capacity do work. Americans will respond and go to work putting America to work. We will produce energy…a lot more energy. The result will be enough of our own energy to keep the lights burning in the Shining City on a Hill for a long, long time.

Brian Davis at the Minnesota Republican Party State Convention

2008-06-01T20:05:00.008-04:00

Davis states that Minnesota families can't afford another 2 years of Congressman Walz and gas price increases

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers

651.261.2182

June 1, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - On Saturday, May 31, Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate for the First Congressional District of Minnesota, was an invited speaker to the State Convention along with Governor Tim Pawlenty and others. There were over 2,000 attendees at the convention.

State Chairman Ron Carey introduced the speakers and expressed approval of the decision of caucus goers and delegates choice of Dr. Davis as the best candidate to win the election in the First District this November.

Many speakers called upon Republicans to stick by our principles of limited government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

As reported in the local media, "The staying power of those principles will likely be tested in the 1st Congressional District, where the party's endorsed candidate, Brian Davis, is challenging U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, a Mankato Democrat, on an unabashedly conservative platform."

Davis says Walz has done little to bring down gas prices with his opposition to expanding oil development in this country. He says the first-term Democrat consistently votes for measures that would expand government and that, according to the Club for Growth, has one of the poorest taxing and spending records in Congress, ranking 394 out of 435 in Congress.

Davis also criticized Congressman Walz for supporting the Employee Free Choice Act, legislation that would deprive workers of the right to have a secret ballot when considering whether to form a union or not. Davis calls this legislation "simply un-American."

"In 2006, Tim Walz ran against George Bush and the Iraq war. In 2008, he's going to have to run on his record, and if I were him, I would run from it," Davis said.

Similar to over 31,000 scientists who have signed the Petition Project, Davis does not agree there is conclusive evidence that global warming is caused predominantly by human activity. "Let me be clear: I totally reject the man-made global warming religion," Davis said to loud applause and a standing ovation.

After the convention Davis commented, "We need real solutions to our problems in gas prices, energy, job creation, national security and health care. We believe we're offering the best programs to solve these problems. Voters will have a clear choice to make a course correction this November."

###

Brian Davis for Congress needs your support! Please donate here!

The State Convention: May 29 - 31

2008-05-31T20:14:00.004-04:00

From the Rochester Post Bulletin:

By Matt Stolle May 30, 2008

The convention will also provide a stage for the party's endorsed candidate for Congress in the 1st Congressional District, Brian Davis. The seat is currently held by U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, a Mankato Democrat who is seeking a second term in the U.S. House.

In a brief speech, Davis, a Mayo Clinic doctor, assailed House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democrats for failing to enact a common-sense solution to skyrocketing gas prices.

Davis, who advocates lifting restrictions on the ability of oil producers to exploit domestic gas reserves including those in the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve in Alaska, says that Democrats have floundered as gas prices have risen from $2 a gallon to nearly $4 a gallon.

"I will tell you that working families in Minnesota cannot afford two more years of Tim Walz and liberals in Congress," Davis said.

The NRCC Supports Brian Davis for Congress

2008-05-14T11:05:00.000-04:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182
May 14, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis for Congress confirmed support of his campaign by the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).

In a letter dated May 7, 2008, Congressman Tom Cole, Chairman of the NRCC stated, "With outstanding candidates like you, we are fully confident that in November we will begin the steady climb toward reclaiming the majority in Congress." Congressman Cole added, "We will do all we can to assist you in your race!"

In response to the letter, which included financial support in the form of Political Action Committee funds, Brian Davis stated, "It is a privilege to work with the NRCC who have been supportive of my candidacy since we first discussed my run in January of 2007."

Davis continued, "We are working hard to raise the funds necessary to be successful in November. We're very pleased by the financial support and endorsement given by the national, state and local party organizations as we consolidate a unified front behind our campaign. Most importantly, however, it is the support and efforts of the volunteers and grass roots which will win this election on the first Tuesday in November."

Brian Davis won the endorsement of the Republican Party at the First District Convention on March 29, 2008. He lives in Rochester with his wife Lori and their four children.

# # #

Congresswoman Michele Bachmann Endorses Brian Davis for Congress

2008-04-23T21:25:00.009-04:00

Bachmann: Minnesota needs Davis' expertise in Congress

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers

651.261.5421

April 23, 2008

ROCHESTER, MN - Today, Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann endorsed Brian Davis to represent the state's First Congressional District.

"Brian Davis has the experience, leadership, and values that are right for Minnesota's First District. With concerns about access to affordable healthcare front and center for Minnesota families, Brian Davis' lifelong commitment to healthcare and experience as a doctor will be a great asset here in Congress. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the people of Minnesota with him."

"It's an honor to receive the support of Congresswoman Bachmann," Davis said of Bachmann. "She is a dynamic leader for Minnesota and for our conservative causes. I value her leadership and advice, her principles and energy. I look forward to serving with her in the 111th Congress."

Davis is a physician in Rochester who specializes in the radiation treatment of cancer. With his wife, Lori, an emergency medicine physician, they have four children and live in Rochester.

###

Former First District Candidate Mark Meyer Endorses Brian Davis for Congress

2008-04-23T19:50:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release
April 21, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Lake Crystal, MN) - Today, former Congressional candidate and Lake Crystal Welcome Memorial School Board Chairman, Mark Meyer, endorsed Brian Davis for Congress. Meyer, who was one of the four initial candidates in the race for the Republican endorsement, dropped out of the race last December. Brian Davis won the Republican endorsement at the First District Convention on March 29 by winning 61% of the votes on the first ballot.

Meyer, a farmer, attorney and employee benefits consultant, stated, "During this past year I was able to get to know the other three Republican candidates well, up close and personal. Throughout the campaign, all of the Republican candidates stated that we were committed to the endorsement process, would abide by it, and would unite to defeat the incumbent, Tim Walz. As the campaign progressed, Brian's motivation, work ethic and determination to represent our Party in the November election became evident, and he built a powerful message and campaign that resulted in his endorsement. Brian has proven himself as the strongest candidate to win the election this fall against incumbent Congressman Walz and represent the First District in Washington. His background and experience in the health care and energy fields makes him exceptionally qualified to represent us in Congress. He is something special!"

Meyer continued, "I enthusiastically endorse Brian Davis for the United States Congress and I will do everything I can to help him defeat the incumbent this November. Now is the time for all First District Republicans to work to elect Brian as our next Congressman."

"I am very pleased that Mark has given me his support in this race. His advice, support and energy will definitely make a difference in the coming months all the way to November" said Davis in response to the endorsement.

###

From the Star Tribune

2008-04-23T19:48:00.001-04:00

By Chao Xiong 4/22/08

From 'Madam Speaker Listens to Vets'

Excerpt

Mayo Clinic cancer doctor Brian Davis won the Republican endorsement to challenge Walz.

Davis issued a statement criticizing Pelosi for voting against a resolution that would have required universities to allow Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) instruction and military recruiters on campus or risk losing federal funding.

Davis: Speaker Pelosi and Congressman Walz should deny funding for universities that restrict ROTC programs

2008-04-23T19:43:00.001-04:00

Davis notes that Pelosi's voting record has been consistently against the military and the ROTC

For Immediate Release
April 21, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican candidate for the First District of Minnesota, called upon House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and First District freshman Congressman Tim Walz to move forward with legislation that would remove the authority that universities exercise in banning Reserve Officers' Training Corp (ROTC) instruction from their campuses. Universities that fail to comply with the proposed ban would be denied all federal research funding and student financial aid. Speaker Pelosi is scheduled to meet Congressman Walz today at a veterans hospital in Minneapolis.

"In 1996, Congress passed the Solomon amendment which requires universities to allow ROTC and military recruiters on campus or risk losing federal funding. As recently as 2005, Speaker Pelosi was among only 20% of Congress to vote against a similar house resolution granting military recruiters equal access to institutions of higher education. When I was a graduate student, I was appalled to learn that ROTC students from a nearby campus had to meet, drill and receive instruction at our university because their school didn't allow a ROTC program even though they were well-funded in every other respect. I thought this was absolutely outrageous, and I still do," said Davis.

Davis continued, "Speaker Pelosi and Congressman Walz are meeting with First District veterans today. If they really want to help the military, Pelosi and Walz should ensure our military receives the respect it deserves on our college campuses. Any university that forbids ROTC instruction on campus should lose all federal funding, plain and simple. This will be one of the first bills I introduce in Congress."

Brad Biers, campaign manager and a National Guard veteran, remarked, "Tim Walz continues to cozy up to the anti-military leftists in Congress. This just doesn't sit well with the overwhelming majority of people in southern Minnesota who respect and honor our military."

###

Davis: DFL and Walz Putting Politics Ahead of our Troops

2008-04-23T19:38:00.001-04:00

Davis Calls for Eventual Referendum in Iraq

For Immediate Release
April 16, 2008
Contact: Brad Biers
651.261.2182

(Rochester, MN) - The Minnesota Democratic-Farm-Labor (DFL) released a statement on April 10, presumably with the approval of Congressman Walz, criticizing President Bush for taking the recommendation of General David Petraeus to temporarily halt troop withdrawals in July after the 'surge' troops have been withdrawn. The statement also leveled criticism at Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican Party candidate for the congressional seat held by Walz, for some of his views on this topic."General Petraeus asked the President to give him some time to analyze the situation in July to determine the best way to proceed in light of the safety of U.S. troops and stability in Iraq. What the DFL-Walz release seems to convey is that they would disregard the request of General Petraeus and ignore the safety of our troops on the ground. This is irresponsible and puts politics ahead of our men and women in uniform," said Davis.

"The surge has Al Qaeda on the run, there's consensus on that issue. The DFL-Walz position seems to be that we should let terrorists regain their strategic position in Iraq and squander all that our military has sacrificed so much to gain" added Davis.

As part of a longer-term solution, Davis has called for an eventual popular referendum in Iraq which poses the question whether the citizens of Iraq want the United States military to remain in their country. Some Americans have called the United States presence an 'illegal occupation'. Davis disagrees with this view and believes that a referendum would establish if the presence of the United States military is welcomed, not just by the government, but by the Iraqi people as well. A 'thumbs up' vote would provide further legitimacy for our presence there.

Davis stated, "Many doubted that elections could be held in Iraq in the past. They were clearly wrong. The people of Iraq should hold another election which will help us determine a productive long-term relationship with their country. If Iraqis want American troops to leave, then we should begin redeploying outside of Iraq in a way that is safe for our troops.

On the other hand, if Iraqis wish our military to stay and assist them in further stabilizing their country, then we should also discuss sharing the basing costs by implementing agreements similar to the ones we have with other countries where American military presence is considered mutually beneficial."
###

Represenative Steve Drazkowski Endorses Brian Davis for Congress

2008-04-16T22:37:00.001-04:00

TO: House District #28B Media and First District Republicans
FROM: Representative Steve Drazkowski
DATE: 04/16/08
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Rep. Steve Drazkowski
14369 654th Street
Wabasha, MN 55981
651-564-0638

REPRESENTATIVE STEVE DRAZKOWSKI ENDORSES BRIAN DAVIS FOR CONGRESS

Following the First District Republican endorsement of Dr. Brian Davis for U.S. Congress, Representative Steve Drazkowski enthusiastically gave his support to Davis. "Brian is a perfect fit for the U.S. House of Representatives. His experience and education have prepared Brian to tackle the challenges facing America and those important to the First District of Minnesota. Brian's engineering background and work experience in the electric power industry make him well-suited to provide solutions to our energy crisis and to represent the burgeoning energy industry in our District."

Representative Drazkowski continued, "Brian's experience as a physician specialized in radiation oncology gives him the perspectives in healthcare to offer meaningful answers to the many problems we face in this area. We need his background from the private-sector in health care and his principled views on the value of a market-driven economy in Washington. It is clear that Brian recognizes the successes and limitations of our healthcare system from a practical perspective. More perspectives like his are needed in Washington."

Drazkowski also commented on his friendship with Dr. Davis stating, "I have enjoyed getting to know Brian and his family over the past year. He and I share the same commitment to limited government, rural values, and dedicated service to the people of Minnesota."

"I have great respect for Representative Drazkowski," said Davis in response to the endorsement. "Steve is a hard-working, determined and principled leader in our District. I'm honored to have his endorsement in this Congressional race and to work with his many supporters. "

Representative Steve Drazkowski can be reached at 888-683-3436 or rep.steve.drazkowski@house.mn.

###

Davis: DFL and Walz Putting Politics Ahead of our Troops

2008-04-16T22:28:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release
April 16, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - The Minnesota Democratic-Farm-Labor (DFL) released a statement on April 10, presumably with the approval of Congressman Walz, criticizing President Bush for taking the recommendation of General David Petraeus to temporarily halt troop withdrawals in July after the 'surge' troops have been withdrawn. The statement also leveled criticism at Brian Davis, the endorsed Republican Party candidate for the congressional seat held by Walz, for some of his views on this topic."General Petraeus asked the President to give him some time to analyze the situation in July to determine the best way to proceed in light of the safety of U.S. troops and stability in Iraq. What the DFL-Walz release seems to convey is that they would disregard the request of General Petraeus and ignore the safety of our troops on the ground. This is irresponsible and puts politics ahead of our men and women in uniform," said Davis.

"The surge has Al Qaeda on the run, there's consensus on that issue. The DFL-Walz position seems to be that we should let terrorists regain their strategic position in Iraq and squander all that our military has sacrificed so much to gain" added Davis.

As part of a longer-term solution, Davis has called for an eventual popular referendum in Iraq which poses the question whether the citizens of Iraq want the United States military to remain in their country. Some Americans have called the United States presence an 'illegal occupation'. Davis disagrees with this view and believes that a referendum would establish if the presence of the United States military is welcomed, not just by the government, but by the Iraqi people as well. A 'thumbs up' vote would provide further legitimacy for our presence there.

Davis stated, "Many doubted that elections could be held in Iraq in the past. They were clearly wrong. The people of Iraq should hold another election which will help us determine a productive long-term relationship with their country. If Iraqis want American troops to leave, then we should begin redeploying outside of Iraq in a way that is safe for our troops.

On the other hand, if Iraqis wish our military to stay and assist them in further stabilizing their country, then we should also discuss sharing the basing costs by implementing agreements similar to the ones we have with other countries where American military presence is considered mutually beneficial."
###

Understanding Who Many of Us Are

2008-04-16T22:17:00.002-04:00

From George Packer:

"The real problem with what Obama said is that it’s basically untrue. In southwestern Pennsylvania, religion, hunting, and insularity predate the post-industrial era. They’ve become politically manipulable points in part because of economic decline, but to confuse wedge issues with traditional values is the mark of the high-minded reformer or the political junkie, or both. It’s the kind of mistake one could make only from a great distance, once those voters had become almost entirely abstract—and, again, no one wants to be an abstraction."

Congressman John Kline Endorses Brian Davis for Congress

2008-04-15T17:46:00.004-04:00

Kline: Minnesota needs Davis' expertise in Congress

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
507.285.5461
April 15, 2008

ROCHESTER, MN - Minnesota Congressman John Kline endorsed Brian Davis to represent the state's 1st Congressional District.

"Dr. Davis' priorities, concerns, and values reflect those of southern Minnesota," said Kline, who represents Minnesota's 2nd District. "Minnesota families are concerned about an uncertain economy, rising health care costs, and escalating prices at the pump."

"Dr. Davis' real-life experience as a physician and nuclear engineer provides him a unique insight and expertise rarely seen in Congress. I look forward to serving the people of Minnesota with him in Congress."

"It's an honor to receive the support of Congressman Kline," Davis said of Kline. "He is a great leader for Minnesota and I respect and admire his common sense, conservative approach to the challenging issues facing our Nation."

Davis is a physician in Rochester who treats cancer patients. With his wife, Lori, an emergency medicine physician, they have four children and live in Rochester.

# # #

Davis Questions Congressman Walz's Support of Senator Obama

2008-04-13T21:22:00.002-04:00

Davis: Obama's statements about Midwest values are demeaning

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
April 13, 2008
651.261.2182

April 13, 2008 (Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, called upon Congressman Walz to withdraw his pledge to support Senator Obama in the Democratic Presidential Primary. Congressman Walz, a superdelegate to this year's Democratic Convention, announced his support of Obama on February 6, one day following the Minnesota caucuses.

Davis, who was recently endorsed by the Republican Party to challenge Walz this Fall, stated, "We have learned a great deal more about Senator Obama in the past two months that is cause for concern. I find it deeply troubling that Senator Obama's stated views on many topics are so out-of-step with mainstream American values. It is shocking, if not implausible, that a Congressman representing this District could support him."

"Senator Obama has had a twenty year association with Reverend Jeremiah Wright of Chicago, someone who has made numerous documented anti-American, racist, and anti-semitic comments from the pulpit. We now see a similarly disturbing pattern in Senator Obama's recent speeches which mirror Reverend Wright's radical views. Senator Obama's statement that giving birth is a form of punishment similar to contracting a sexually transmitted disease is simply outrageous. Moreover, Obama's recent characterization of small towns in the Midwest as a collection of individuals who 'cling to guns or religion' out of helplessness and desperation reveals the elitist attitude of someone who neither respects the roots and faith traditions of our nation nor understands the freedoms afforded us by our Constitution," Davis said.

Davis concluded, "My wife and I are the proud parents of four healthy children and we consider them a blessing, not a punishment. It is clear that the right path for Congressman Walz is to denounce Senator Obama's offensive and divisive statements. Does Tim Walz believe that someone who has repeatedly voiced such offensive views should lead our nation? Congressman Walz should either publicly withdraw his support for Mr. Obama or explain how the extreme views of the junior Senator from Illinois reflect those of the First Congressional District. At present, his silence is deafening."

###

Letter from Karen C

2008-04-13T20:41:00.001-04:00

ONE of the things that has REALLY put me off of Walz...is EVERYTIME I receive postal mail from him as a beautifully published brochure... telling me what Walz has done...at the bottom are the words AT TAX PAYER'S EXPENSE. It makes me angry everytime I get one...and there have been at least a handfull. He should be campaigning at his own expense. Meanwhile I drive on roads with pot holes so big my tires sink into them on Hwy 52 S! Am I the only one angry about this?

Karen C.
Rochester
April 12, 2008

Letter from Grace Patterson of Rochester

2008-04-13T20:37:00.003-04:00

The following is a letter to the editor I sent to the Post Bulletin on March 31st. They chose not to print it. Therefore, I am actively using the internet to help make up for the void. I have sent fax after fax to Walz, begging him to support the SAVE Act. (HR4088). He won’t. In fact, he is nothing but a Pelosi rubber stamp.

He has to be defeated.

My best wishes.

Grace Patterson, Rochester, MN

Walz Can Spin Like a Top.

Representative Tim Walz column, Saturday, March 29th Post Bulletin, contained more SPIN than a whirlpool. I refer to his comments on the subject of Earmarks.

His appalling account of the function of “Earmarks” is so blatantly false I am surprised he had the gall to put it in print. We know that the practice of using earmarks to fund pet projects, in order to avoid having to defend the expenditure in a vote, has become a most outrageous waste of taxpayer’s money. The reason earmarks have been stopped is: Taxpayer’s are demanding an end to this “under the table” practice. Walz‘s comment that bureaucrats are now charged with spending our tax dollars without direction from the elected is also untrue. Very few in the House of Representatives ever knew what earmark money was being spent on and could care less. Now they will have to vote to spend your money. That means we can check on how they vote. Walz won’t like that one bit.

Rep. Walz‘s views himself an “advocate” for Minnesota’s first District, only if it fits his agenda. He is not an advocate for a fair up or down vote, not on immigration, nor on protecting our country from terrorists, and not on spending your tax dollars. We don’t need him.

Grace Patterson

Congressman Tim Walz Receives a Failing 'F' Rating From National Taxpayers Union

2008-04-13T20:21:00.002-04:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
April 11, 2008
651.261.2182

April 11, 2008 (Rochester, MN) - The non-partisan National Taxpayers Union (NTU) recently released its ratings for the 2007 session of Congress. The NTU rates all votes that affect taxes, spending, debt, and regulatory burdens on consumers and taxpayers. Congressman Tim Walz (MN - 01) scored 3%, earning an F rating, the lowest score amongst the Minnesota Congressional delegation and well below the average of Democrats in Congress.

"I am very disappointed that the Congressman is not prioritizing fiscal issues in an economy that is struggling," said First Congressional District Candidate Brian Davis. "What we need is a Congressman who focuses on the bottom line and works to reduce spending and taxes. People all across southern Minnesota are tightening their family budgets because of the increased cost of gasoline, food and other household items."

"I'm not a career politician who thinks Congress can solve everything if it just spends more," Davis continued. Davis, a member of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, attended today's monthly meeting where Congressman Walz gave a presentation. Davis remarked, "As evident by many of the Congressman's comments today, he believes in a tax and spend philosophy which is bad for our national economy and that of southern Minnesota. The National Taxpayers Union ranking demonstrates this unfortunate fact."

Brian Davis is the endorsed Republican candidate in the First District of Minnesota. He lives in Rochester where he and his wife Lori are raising 4 children.

###

Davis Receives Endorsement from First District County Chairs

2008-04-04T21:25:00.011-04:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
April 4, 2008
507.285.5461

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, reports the endorsement from the County Chairs from 20 counties in the First District. These public endorsements follow Davis's win at the First District convention last Saturday on the first ballot with 61% of the vote cast.

Ron Carey, State Party Chair, also issued a statement following the convention, "Brian Davis is a great choice for the people of southern Minnesota and I look forward to working with him to retire Tim Walz from Congress."

Davis said, "It's an honor to earn the endorsement from the Republican Party and so many County Chairs across the District. My campaign team and I are working hard to unify the party behind my candidacy so that we will present a united front for this November's election."

The Counties and Chairs who have endorsed Brian Davis include:

BlueEarth - Jerry Groebner

Brown - Gerald Woodley

Cottonwood - Glen Letellier

Dodge - Chuck Bradford

Faribault - David Murray

Fillmore - Keith Culver and Harriet Lawston

Freeborn - Tiny Brandt and Annmarie Schleck

Houston - Patrick Boone

Jackson - Richard Koch

Martin - Richard Barke

Mower - Clarence Klenke

Murray - Roger Vanderschaaf

Nobles - Joyce McCarthy

Olmsted - Duane Quam and Rebecca Smith

Pipestone - Lorna Beyers

Rock - Bill Weber

Wabasha - Marv Howatt

Waseca - Jennifer Goblirsch and John Wilkus

Watonwan - Klarice Rinne

Winona - Richard Dorn

###

Updated April 7, 9:50 am.

Davis Wins Republican Endorsement on First Ballot

2008-04-04T20:41:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brad Biers
507.285.5461
April 4, 2008

(Albert Lea, MN) - Brian Davis, Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, won the Republican endorsement by receiving 61% of the vote on the first ballot at the District Convention in Albert Lea last Saturday, March 29.

"It's an honor to earn the endorsement of the Republican Party. I look forward to a spirited discussion of the issues with Congressman Walz and others in this election. Voters are looking for someone who will bring about real change in Congress, someone who has the ability to create solutions to the challenges that face our country, instead of big-government tax and spend philosophies." said Davis.

Davis continued, "I want to thank Representative Randy Demmer for running a strong race and sticking to the issues in this campaign. I also thank him for joining me by committing to abide by the endorsement earlier in our race. Randy is a role model with clear integrity and character. I hope to have the opportunity to support him in his future endeavors."

Davis also thanked his supporters and family. "My wife, Lori, and our children have been my best supporters over the last year. In addition, there are many supporters, delegates and others to whom I will ever be grateful for their guidance, wisdom and support."

Brian Davis is a physician in Rochester treating cancer patients. Together with his wife Lori, an emergency room doctor, the Davises have four children and reside in Rochester, MN.

###

Davis gets nod for 1st Congressional District run

2008-04-03T08:16:00.003-04:00

St. James Plaindealer
April 2, 2008

By Mike Ricci, Editor

It did not take long for 1st Congressional District delegates to endorse a candidate to run against incumbent Rep. Tim Walz.

On the first ballot at the District 1 GOP endorsing convention Saturday, March 29, in Albert Lea, delegates voted 160 to 100 in favor of Brian Davis over Randy Demmer (R-Hayfield).

The fact that the needed 60 percent of the vote was acquired on the first ballot came as a surprise to Klarice Rinne, Watonwan County Republican Party chair.

Rinne said that many in the party thought the balloting could go a dozen or more times before either candidate received the 60 percent required for the GOP endorsement.

The quick endorsement also surprised Davis, a doctor at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

“Yes it was somewhat of a surprise that it went that quickly,” he said. “Although, we expected to have a small lead.”

Before Davis can go on and battle incumbent Tim Walz, a Mankato Democrat, he first must overcome one more obstacle - a battle in the primary against state Sen. Dick Day (R-Owatonna).

In February, Day said he would skip the Republican endorsing convention and in the process create a primary battle against the Republican endorsed candidate.

Day's view is in contrast with Davis and Demmer's as they both agreed to abide by the endorsement. Davis said he has faith in Demmer that he will follow through on his word.

On the issues, Davis said he and Demmer differ only on a couple. He added, however, that the endorsing convention focused more on the electability of both men.

“A number of delegates stated that I am the electable and conservative candidate,” Davis said referring to why he was endorsed by the delegates.

Should Davis defeat Day in the Sept. 9 primary, it will then be a concentrated effort on November's general election.

Davis said Walz' voting record does not reflect the views of those in the 1st District.

“Tim Walz votes with liberal Democrats and Speaker Pelosi 95 percent of the time,” he said. “Those aren't southern Minnesota values.”

Regardless of who will win the primary and contend for his seat, Walz said neither man offers anything of substance.

“Republicans Brian Davis and Dick Day offer nothing more than the same failed politics that have led America into recession, debt and insecurity,” a state DFL Party press release said.

Following Davis' win against Demmer, Ron Carey, state Republican Party chairman issued a statement.

"Brian Davis is a great choice for the people of southern Minnesota and I look forward to working with him to retire Tim Walz from Congress. On issue after issue, Dr. Davis represents a sharp contrast to a far-left liberal like Walz,” it said in part.

Our Appeal for Support

2008-04-02T13:57:00.005-04:00

Blast email sent to supporters earlier this week

Dear Friends,

On Saturday at 12:11pm, the Albert Lea High School Auditorium burst into applause as the announcement was made that Brian Davis had won the Republican Endorsement on the first ballot during the 1st District Republican Convention.

While Brian and his family took Saturday evening and Sunday to enjoy the victory and reflect on the past year's work, the campaign has now turned its full focus to defeating Tim Walz in November. That effort starts today, and with your financial contribution, we're on our way.

During the past year, while Brian has been criss-crossing the state visiting with Minnesota voters about his solutions to stabilize the American economy, lower gas prices and fix our health care system, Tim Walz has been filling his campaign coffers with PAC money.

With your financial contribution today of $50 , $100 or even $250 our campaign can begin catching up. Now that we have the full support of the Minnesota Republican Party, we are ready to take on Tim Walz, but Brian can't do it alone.

Please consider making a secure online donation today by clicking here.

Brian has committed to redouble his efforts and challenge Tim Walz on the issues facing America.
In fact that's started today as Brian and supporters are door knocking in Tim Walz's hometown of Mankato.

Please consider making the most generous contribution as possible before midnight tonight, as the 1st Quarter reporting period ends today.

Sincerely,

The Brian Davis for Congress Campaign Team

P.S. Please consider making a financial contribution today to put Brian on the path to victory. Click here to make a contribution.

The maximum contribution is $2,300 per person, per election cycle. Contributions to 'Brian Davis for Congress' are not deductible as charitable donations for federal income tax purposes. Contributions by corporations, foreign nationals and federal government contractors are prohibited under federal law. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year or in an election cycle in the case of an authorized committee.

Republicans Endorse Candidate Brian Davis

2008-03-31T01:41:00.001-04:00

Published - Monday, March 31, 2008
By Mark Sommerhauser Winona Daily News

The Minnesota Republican Party has picked its candidate to challenge Democratic Rep. Tim Walz in November.

But Republican voters may have the final say in a September primary that would pit a political outsider against a political veteran.

GOP delegates from Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District selected Brian Davis, a Mayo Clinic physician, at Saturday’s endorsing convention in Albert Lea.

On the first ballot, Davis received 160 delegate votes to 100 votes for Rep. Randy Demmer, R-Hayfield.

Davis said Sunday that he was pleased Republican delegates came to a quick consensus.
“I was honored and humbled and also a little surprised that this happened as quickly as it did,” Davis said.

But unlike most campaigns, the endorsement doesn’t necessarily determine who’ll be on the general election ballot with Walz.

Sen. Dick Day, R-Owatonna, announced in February that he would force a primary by skipping the GOP endorsing convention.

The candidates bring contrasting resumes — Davis has never held elected office, while Day has been in the Minnesota Senate since 1990.

Day highlighted that difference in a Sunday interview.

“We’re going to find out whether people want experience, or if they think this is a job for on-the-job training,” Day said. “(Davis) has never been involved in anything political.”

Davis, meanwhile, said his campaign will focus on Walz between now and the July filing deadline for the primary.

Davis cited Walz’s positions on taxes and illegal immigration as points of contrast.

“It should become clear that Tim Walz doesn’t represent the values of southern Minnesota,” Davis said.

The Walz campaign said Saturday that it has begun outreach efforts in Winona, Rochester and Mankato. The first-term teacher from Mankato had raised about $1.15 million by the end of 2007.

“Republicans Brian Davis and Dick Day offer nothing more than the same failed politics that have led America into recession, debt and insecurity,” Minnesota DFLers said in a release.

Some observers believe the Davis-Day split will benefit Walz, who already has a commanding fundraising lead. In a Saturday article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Minnesota GOP chair Ron Carey commented on Day’s candidacy, saying he is “giving Tim Walz a free pass.”

Day said he doesn’t believe his battle with Davis will dampen Republican prospects in November.

“It will make both of us work harder,” Day said.

Davis Wins Republican Nomination

2008-03-31T01:08:00.003-04:00

By Sarah Kirchner, staff writer
Albert Lea Tribune, March 29, 2008

It was a political weekend in Albert Lea, as Brian Davis of Rochester won the Republican endorsement to run in November against Democratic Rep. Tim Walz in Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District. Four hundred people showed up Saturday at the Republican 1st Congressional District Convention in Albert Lea to make the decision.

“I am honored and humbled to have such confidence placed in me by the delegates of this convention,” Davis said.

A doctor at Mayo Clinic, Davis was up against state House District 29A Rep. Randy Demmer for the nomination. Demmer had more supporters on the stage, but Davis had more enthusiasm from the crowd, which was evident in the 160-100 vote in Davis’ favor. One person voted for another candidate. From the convention, 261 votes were cast and 157 were needed for the 60 percent majority. Only one ballot was needed to come to a majority.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Sen. Norm Coleman were at the convention giving speeches to incite support for the Republican Party. Pawlenty said he thinks Republicans will do well in 2008, both nationally and in Minnesota, although he said he hasn’t had a chance to get to know many local candidates yet.

“Our country needs and our state needs and our party needs a positive message,” the governor said.

When the nomination was announced Davis thanked his family, his campaign workers and the crowd for their support. Saying Demmer is a “class act,” he thanked his competitor with a hug and a handshake.

“We’re disappointed,” Demmer said of the vote. “I’m proud to have run a great campaign.”
However, Demmer did announce he is leaning toward running for his state House seat for a fourth term. He said he will talk it over with his family to make sure running again is what they want to do.

Both Davis and Demmer, as well as many other speakers at the convention, said they are confident the Republican nominee will beat Walz, a teacher from Mankato who is in his first term in office.

“With the energy and passion in this room, I am confident we will be victorious this November,” Davis said.

But before Davis can go up against Walz, he faces a primary against longtime state Senator Dick Day. Day skipped the Republican endorsement to take the decision directly to voters. The primary election is held in September.

Walz is scheduled to start an outreach campaign in Mankato and Rochester.

Demmer said Davis has a lot of hard work ahead of him, but the position can be won through grassroots organizing and getting the message out that Walz is not the man to represent the 1st District. Demmer added he is confident Republicans will get a lot of seats back, on all levels, in the coming elections.

Davis, married with four kids ranging in age from 4 to 14, said he will work hard, raise the appropriate funds and represent the issues appropriate to the voters in the 1st District. His next campaign stop will be going door-to-door Monday in Mankato.

“This is an important election which will determine the direction our country faces,” he said.
Davis was born and raised in Waukegan, Ill., and has a bachelor’s in nuclear engineering from the University of Illinois. He has a master’s and doctorate in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a medical doctorate from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He has been a doctor at Mayo Clinic and a Rochester resident since 1996.

His platform, he said, includes the belief that life begins at conception, the feeling that using embryos for stem cell research is unnecessary and a want to increase the domestic energy supply. Davis said he believes marriage is between a man and a woman, and if a civil union is another name for gay marriage, then he is against it.

Davis said he wants to maintain the military status that is second to none throughout the world and is wary of foreign entanglements. The current Congress, he said, is incapable of dealing with the illegal immigrant problem and Davis wants to stop the de facto amnesty program.

“We’re going to run a vigorous campaign and I’m excited to get started,” Davis said.

The convention had votes from all 22 counties within the district. Freeborn County brought 11 of the 12 delegates allocated and seated 10 with two alternates seated. A total of 261 delegates were allocated throughout the district and 232 were present Saturday.

The last time a Republican District Convention took place in Albert Lea was 2002.

— The Associated Press contributed to this report.

BRIAN DAVIS ENDORSED BY 1ST CD REPUBLICANS

2008-03-30T13:41:00.002-04:00

Press Release from the Republican Party of Minnesota

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday March 29, 2008
CONTACT: Mark Drake

(Albert Lea, MN) - Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Ron Carey today issued the following statement after 1st Congressional District Republicans endorsed Dr. Brian Davis as the candidate to take on Tim Walz. Dr. Davis defeated Rep. Randy Demmer on the first ballot by winning 160 votes. Rep. Demmer tallied 100 votes, with one vote for other.

"Brian Davis is a great choice for the people of southern Minnesota and I look forward to working with him to retire Tim Walz from Congress. On issue after issue, Dr. Davis represents a sharp contrast to a far-left liberal like Walz. Walz promised to be an 'independent leader' but has voted for Nancy Pelosi's left-wing agenda 95% of the time and against the interests of the First District. With Washington broken, I know Dr. Davis is the right candidate to send Walz packing."

Former State Representative and Regent Verne Long Endorses Brian Davis for Congress

2008-03-21T00:18:00.003-04:00

For Immediate Release
March 20, 2008
Contact: Brian Davis
507.285.5461

(Pipestone, MN) - Today, former State Representative and University of Minnesota Regent, Verne Long of Pipestone, endorsed Brian Davis as the Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District. Davis, a physician from Rochester, is seeking the Republican endorsement to challenge Tim Walz in the 2008 general election. Verne Long joins former U.S. Senator Rudy Boschwitz and many First District Activists in endorsing Brian Davis.

Long, a lifelong farmer, said, "I've known Brian Davis for nearly a decade as an accomplished, hard working and principled individual. He has strong support in our county for good reason. From the beginning of his campaign he has spoken directly to Republicans about the need to get back to our core roots of fiscal responsibility, strong national defense, and limited government. He has been unwavering in his commitment to these principles. Brian is the candidate who has worked the hardest and demonstrated the necessary ability to raise the money it will take to beat Tim Walz in the general election."

"Representative Long is a source of inspiration. I value his advice and counsel," said Davis in response to the endorsement. "It is an honor to have Representative Long's support for our campaign."

The First District Convention will be held Saturday, March 29 in Albert Lea, MN.

###

Martin County Straw Poll Heavily Favors Davis for Endorsement

2008-03-16T19:25:00.003-04:00

For Immediate Release

March 16, 2008

Contact: Zachary

507.285.5461

(Fairmont, MN) - On Saturday, March 15, the Martin County Republican Party held their County Convention to elect delegates to the First District Convention scheduled for March 29th. Republican Activists, State Legislators and others were present at the meeting. Martin County, in the western portion of the First District, is the most populous in the region with ten delegates being elected to the First District Convention.

During his speech to the Martin County Convention, First District Congressional candidate Brian Davis emphasized that Republicans need to elect and endorse candidates who are true to Conservative principles. His enthusiasm and clear message of fiscal responsibility, social conservatism, limited government, and the protection of our Constitutional liberties was well-received by those in attendance. As part of the balloting, a straw poll was conducted where Davis received 70% of the vote, 35 of 50 casting votes.

Davis said, "We are honored that the party stalwarts and rank-and-file have come forward with such strong support for my candidacy. We're working hard across the entire District, from the Mississippi river to the South Dakota border to earn this endorsement. Our ultimate goal is to bring conservative representation reflecting the character of this District to Washington, DC."

Neal Breitbarth, a Martin County Republican Activist and delegate elected to the First District Convention added, "Ultimately, these shared Conservative values of respect for life and marriage, support for lower taxes and less government spending, have lead me to support Brian." In a letter to First District Republicans, Breitbarth adds, "I hope you will join me in my support of Dr. Davis."

Brian Davis is a physician in Rochester who treats cancer patients. Together with his wife Lori, an emergency room doctor, they have four children and reside in Rochester, MN.

###

Freedom Club of America Endorses Brian Davis

2008-03-16T19:17:00.002-04:00

Group views Davis as the best Republican candidate to defeat Walz in November

For Immediate Release
March 16, 2008

First District Republican Congressional candidate Brian Davis continues to build momentum as he received the coveted endorsement of the Freedom Club of America last week.

An organization of conservative Republican contributors, the Freedom Club of America only invests in candidates with rock solid conservative credentials who have a legitimate chance of winning the general election.

The Freedom Club is very selective in the races in which it chooses to get involved. Past recipients of the Freedom Club's select endorsement include Michelle Bachmann, John Kline and Gil Gutknecht.

"I am pleased and honored to receive the endorsement of this strong conservative organization," Davis said. "Many Republicans are looking for a candidate who is not a professional politician. Instead, voters want someone who brings private sector ideas and solutions to the challenges facing government."

Brian Davis is a physician in Rochester who treats cancer patients. Together with his wife Lori, an emergency room doctor, they have four children and reside in Rochester, MN.

###

Davis Top Fundraiser Again in 4th Quarter

2008-02-04T00:36:00.000-04:00

For immediate release
February 4, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, released his fourth quarter fundraising numbers for 2007.

During the fourth quarter - October 1 to December 31 - Brian Davis for Congress had $59,302 in total receipts, the most of any Republican candidate in the race. This follows his third quarter results which were also the most of any candidate at that time. In addition, Davis had the lowest expenses for 2007. His cash-on-hand at the end of the year was $84,901.

Among major donors, Davis had strong fundraising both within Minnesota and nationally. Davis said, "It's clear that the general election will require support both locally and nationally for us to be successful in November. I think I've demonstrated that we'll be able to do that when the time comes."

As Davis noted earlier, "Our fundraising numbers are indicative of the support we're receiving from Republican activists across the district. Voters are responding to our conservative message focused on finding solutions to immigration, energy, an out-of-control federal budget and health care."

Brian and his wife, Lori, also a physician, live in Rochester with their four children.

##

Thursday's Forum at Mayo High School: January 24

2008-01-23T16:03:00.000-04:00

The format of the forum was sent to me and is being posted with permission:

First, the candidates will each have 5 minutes to introduce themselves after the following prompt:

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for congress. Is there one issue or experience that motivated you to run?

Each candidate will be allowed a 4 minute response to each of the following 8 questions (in no particular order).

1. Describe your policy on education funding and more specifically your stance on No Child Left Behind.

2. Where do we go from here in Iraq and how do we do it in a fiscally responsible way?

3. With the National Debt over 9 Trillion dollars, students feel that older generations are passing the buck to us. What actions will you take to ease the burden on the next generation?

4. Today's youth will be entering an age where our competition is not sitting in the next classroom, but in China, India, and other developing nations. What plans and/or economic policies do you plan to implement that will keep jobs in the United States?

5. What will you take to stem the flow of illegal immigration and what rights should immigrants have in the United States?

6. What specific initiatives will you take to reduce our dependence on foreign oil?

7. The United States spends 17% of our GDP on health care, higher than any other industrialized nation, yet the soaring costs are too much for many Americans. What will you do to improve the system and lower the costs?

Candidates will also be given 4 minutes for Closing Statements

Also, candidates will be asked to respond yes or no to the following issues:

Do you oppose abortion?

Do you oppose civil unions for gay couples?

Do you believe that global climate change is caused by human actions?

Do you support the PATRIOT Act? (Yes, No, Yes, with some modifications)

Here is the schedule for Thursday evening:

6:00 Opening remarks by First District Chair of the Minnesota Teenage Republicans, Matt Payne

6:03 Senator Dave Senjem, opening speaker

6:15 Introduction by Simon Zais, President of Century's Young Conservatives (this will be very brief, candidates will be expected to introduce themselves in their opening statement)

6:19 Candidates begin opening statements and other questions posed by moderators. (Michael Hicks- John Marshall, Todd Nickel- Century, Katelyn Alexander- Lourdes, Britt Koball- Mayo)

7:30 Closing statement by Matt Payne

We hope to see you there!

Olmsted County Republican Party Candidate Forum - January 10, 2008

2008-01-21T00:38:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, January 10, the Olmsted County Republican Party sponsored a public forum for candidates seeking the party endorsement for the First District of Minnesota. We include some clips from the event that was attended by nearly 100 people and some photos:

Opening statement:

Remarks on immigration:

..and closing remarks:

MANKATO COLLEGE REPUBLICANS TO HOST 1ST DISTRICT REPUBICAN FORUM ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 31

2008-01-16T11:43:00.000-04:00

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO
COLLEGE REPUBLICANS

Contacts:
Alyssa George FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cell Phone: 310-767-6772
Email: Alyssa.George-1@mnsu.edu

James Dye
Cell Phone: 507-382-0377
Email: james.dye@mnsu.edu

MANKATO COLLEGE REPUBLICANS TO HOST 1ST DISTRICT REPUBLICAN FORUM

Mankato, MN January 28, 2007 - - Minnesota State University College Republicans will host the announced candidates for the US House of Representatives MN-01 on Thursday, January 31 at 6:30pm at Minnesota State University, Mankato Centennial Student Union, Room 253-254.

The College Republicans are bringing awareness of the candidates so that they can address the issues of the region. Secondarily, Minnesota Caucuses will be held the following Tuesday, February 5th. The College Republicans expect to increase turnout to the caucus by hold such an event.

The announced Republican candidates for the US House of Representatives are: Dick Day, Minnesota State Senator, and retired businessman – Owatonna. Randy Demmer, Minnesota State Representative, and businessman – Hayfield. Brian Davis, Physician – Rochester.

“This is a great chance for the candidates to remind us why the ideals of the Republican Party are those of the district” said Alyssa George, Mankato College Republican Chair. George continues, “The forum is also an opportunity to disprove the youth side of the cliché ‘Any man who is under 30, and is not a liberal, has no heart; and any man who is over 30, and is not a conservative, has no brains.’ by Winston Churchill.”

If you would like more information about the topic, or schedule an interview with a College Republican, please call Shirley Piepho at 507-389-6785 or email Shirley at Shirley.piepho@mnsu.edu

Concerns About Our Latest Economic Indicators and Energy Costs

2008-01-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

Increased Domestic Energy Production Needed to Sustain Economic Growth

For immediate release
January 10, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, Republican candidate and physician in Minnesota's First Congressional District, released a five point plan to put America on the path towards a sound energy policy. Citing the price of oil as leading our nation towards recession, Davis unveiled the plan on the eve of Republican debate in Rochester on Thursday.

Davis stated, "The current energy bill that passed Congress is inadequate, especially since the price of oil is pushing our economy towards recession. We need people in Congress with backgrounds in energy and those that have more faith in the free market system, than a system of government mandates. The politicians need to move away from rhetoric and take a level-headed look at the numbers and facts to achieve sustained economic growth and increased domestic energy production."

Added Davis, "There is a real possibility of a recession developing, because the cost of energy factors so much into our economy and contributes so heavily to our trade deficit, in fact, up to one-half of it."

The former Chairman of the Federal Reserve, Alan Greenspan, remarked recently that the likelihood of recession is clearly rising, and that the unemployment rate for December increased from 4.7% to 5.0%.

Davis outlined the following proposals for us to move towards eventual energy independence:

Open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and Outer Continental Shelf for immediate exploration for oil and natural gas recovery.
Continue developing alternative energy sources including ethanol, wind, solar power, and bio-diesel, but move away from mandates.
Provide a stable regulatory environment that permits the development of nuclear power, an underutilized clean and safe source of electric energy.
Remove automobile mileage standards and government imposed production mandates because they often work against the free market and have failed in the past. Let individuals decide what is best for them.
Continue with laws to safeguard our air and environment from the known pollutants of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, mercury, lead and particulate matter.

"The bottom line: our government should be promoting policies which remove obstacles to increased production of the major sources of energy that fuel our economy: oil, natural gas, coal and uranium while still protecting the environment," said Davis.

Davis continued, "Our nation's energy policy and economic well-being should not be based on the deeply flawed theory that carbon dioxide produced from fossil fuel combustion will lead to catastrophic climate change. Eighty-six percent of our energy consumption is from fossil fuels."

"Congressman Walz is against opening up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to energy exploration. He and others are just simply wrong about this," concluded Davis.

Dr. Davis, a physician in Rochester, was trained in nuclear engineering and mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He worked for several years in the electric power industry before entering the field of medicine. He and his wife, Lori, also a physician, live in Rochester with their four children.

For more detail, a letter to First District Republicans related to this topic is posted here.

##

Fundraising Update: Preliminary 4th Quarter Results

2008-01-03T00:58:00.000-04:00

Davis Raises Over $156k in Minnesota's CD1 Race in 2007

For immediate release

January 2, 2008

(Rochester, MN) - Today, Brian Davis, Republican candidate in Minnesota's First Congressional District, released his preliminary fourth quarter fundraising numbers for 2007.

During the fourth quarter - October 1 to December 31 - Brian Davis for Congress had over $58,000 in total receipts. Independent contributions totaled over $48,000, nearly the same amount as last quarter's contributions of $55,035, which was the most of any Republican candidate in the race. In addition, over $8,000 in contributions were reported from the candidate, leaving over $80,000 as cash on hand and an overall favorable balance sheet for the campaign.

The campaign continues to build momentum as donations were received from over twice as many supporters as the prior two quarters combined. Three times as many major donations from Minnesota residents were received demonstrating Davis' increasing local support. Among those contributing were the Political Action Committee of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology with $2,500, a medical specialty society of which Davis is a member, and former U.S. Senator William Armstrong, Republican of Colorado.

"We're pleased to continue receiving strong support for our campaign both in southern Minnesota and nationally. Our fundraising numbers are indicative of the support we're receiving from Republican activists across the district. Voters are responding to our conservative message focused on finding solutions to immigration, energy, an out-of-control federal budget and health care." said Davis.

The final year-end report is due to the Federal Election Commission on January 31, 2008.

Brian and his wife, Lori, also a physician, live in Rochester with their four children.

##

An Indivisible Nation

2008-01-02T17:06:00.000-04:00

The letter below is abridged from one sent on December 5, 2007 to Republican Activists in the First District. Please also see the Letter to the Editor from John Adams of Mazeppa.

Dear Friends:

On October 24, 2007, the U.S. Congress passed legislation which would create a separate class of citizen with rights differing from the rest of Americans. This legislation is known as the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act and was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives by 261-153.

Among those voting in favor of this onerous legislation was Congressman Walz.

This bill would allow natives to negotiate with the state of Hawaii and the United States concerning 'lands, natural resources, assets, criminal and civil jurisdiction, and historical grievances.' This Act is designed to create a separate, independent, race-based government for Native Hawaiians. In the words of its two sponsors, 'the purpose of the bill is to allow the Native Hawaiian people to decide on the organization of an entity to represent them in government-to-government relations with the United States.'

When asked if this could lead to reparations, secession or independence one of the bills sponsors, Senator Akaka, stated, 'could be - it all depends on my grandchildren and great grandchildren.'

In 1868, shortly after the Civil War, the Supreme Court stated that we have 'an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible states.' In 1959, Hawaii became our 50th state when 94 percent of inhabitants, including a large majority of Native Hawaiians, voted for statehood. In 1963, I began reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every day I attended public school. We all know the words 'One Nation under God, indivisible..' My four children know this pledge and recite it in school as well.

The only thing standing in the way of this Act is a presidential veto and the Supreme Court. As your Congressman to the U.S. House of Representatives, I vow to represent our values and vision for America, not to cast votes which serve to divide us as Congressman Walz has done. We are Americans first. If we forget that our nation starts down a slippery slope.

Sincerely,

Brian Davis
Candidate for the Republican Endorsement
U.S. House of Representatives, MN-01

The Nation's Eternal Gratitude: Looking Back 63 Years

2007-12-24T05:20:00.000-04:00

...until victory is won and a stable peace established. Source: Museum of WWII.

Our updated schedule

2007-12-18T18:14:00.000-04:00

December 18, Tuesday - Blue Earth Republican Party Meeting, Mankato

January 7, Monday - Brown County Republican Party Meeting, New Ulm

January 10, Thursday - Candidate Forum in Rochester (Details Pending)

January 12, Saturday - Winona County Republican Party Meeting, Rollingstone

January 14, Monday - Freedom Club luncheon for First District Candidates, Minneapolis

January 15, Tuesday - Blue Earth County Republican Party Meeting, Mankato

January 21, Monday - Steele County Republican Party Meeting

January 24, Thursday - Young Republican Candidate Forum (Rochester)

January 26, Saturday - Olmsted County Republican Party Gala Event with Jason Lewis
Brian Davis for Congress is a sponsor of the event.

January 31, Thursday - College Republican Candidate Forum - Mankato State (Details Pending)

February 5, 2008 - Caucus date!

Feb 23, Saturday: Wabasha, Winona, Jackson, Olmsted, and Dodge County Conventions

March 1, Saturday: Waseca, Steele, Brown, Watonwan, Mower, and Freeborn County Conventions

March 8, Saturday: Houston and Nicollet County Conventions

March 15, Saturday: Faribault and Blue Earth County Conventions

March 29, Saturday: First District Convention, Albert Lea

Giving Thanks

2007-11-22T01:19:00.000-04:00

This Thanksgiving is a time of remembrance and prayer for those who sacrifice on our behalf and for the gifts of life given by our Creator. Over a dozen years ago my wife and I spent Thanksgiving in New York City. We lived there for a few years during some of my medical training. Being on a limited budget, we would often find the best entertainment and family time with our young son by walking through the city that is home to many historical monuments. One less well-known monument I remember in particular is a statue of William Seward, former Governor of New York, and our Secretary of State during the Civil War. It is located in a small park in Manhattan, Madison Square. A friend recently forwarded me this 'Proclamation of Thanksgiving' signed by President Lincoln and Secretary Seward over 144 years ago. It is worth reading today.

Proclamation of Thanksgiving

Washington, D.C.October 3, 1863

This is the proclamation which set the precedent for America's national day of Thanksgiving. During his administration, President Lincoln issued many orders like this. For example, on November 28, 1861, he ordered government departments closed for a local day of thanksgiving.
Sarah Josepha Hale, a prominent magazine editor, wrote a letter to Lincoln on 28, 1863, urging him to have the "day of our annual Thanksgiving made a National and fixed Union Festival." She wrote, "You may have observed that, for some years past, there has been an increasing interest felt in our land to have the Thanksgiving held on the same day, in all the States; it now needs National recognition and authoritive fixation, only, to become permanently, an American custom and institution." The document below sets apart the last Thursday of November "as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise."

According to an April 1, 1864, letter from John Nicolay, one of President Lincoln's secretaries, this document was written by Secretary of State William Seward, and the original was in his handwriting. On October 3, 1863, fellow Cabinet member Gideon Welles recorded in his diary that he complimented Seward on his work. A year later the manuscript was sold to benefit Union troops.

By the President of the United States of America.

A Proclamation.

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth.

By the President: Abraham Lincoln

William H. Seward,Secretary of State

Interview with the Post Bulletin Blog

2007-11-21T03:03:00.000-04:00

Ed Felker of the Rochester Post-Bulletin, the Post's Washington correspondent, wrote about an email interview I had with him on the online site 'Political Party'. He also discussed our blog effort in the online and print version of the paper. (corrected 11/21/07 at 3:30 pm)

Five Events in Four Days

2007-11-15T10:21:00.000-04:00

# 1: (Saturday, November 10) The last 5 days have been busy for the four of us seeking the Republican endorsement in the 1st District. On Saturday morning, we met with the Winona County Republican Party at 7:30 am sharp in Rollingstone. I arrived on time because I learned in a prior visit that the large orange sign which reads ‘Road Closed’ on Highway 33 to Altura is actually true. A bridge is out north of Highway 14 due to flood damage so a detour through Lewiston is necessary. Around twenty people attended the meeting which included candidate updates and new and old business for the County Party. At the end of the meeting, the BPOU Chair, Dick, who was sitting right next to me made some closing remarks just as everyone was getting ready to leave: ‘I have one last item. I would like to inform you who I am supporting for the candidate for the First District. Since most of you have asked me I thought that I would make this announcement in front of everyone. (Pause and suspense) I will be supporting the endorsed candidate.’ A good sense of humor goes a long way.

#2: Our next stop was La Crescent for a meeting with the Houston County Republican Party. We gave similar campaign updates as in Rollingstone with some variations and then took a few questions. The possibility of a candidate forum was also discussed with each campaign weighing in. Greg Davids and Steve Bissen discussed their campaigns in House District 31B. The view from the home was beautiful with the Mississippi river visible in the distance. Mark gave his speech first and then left early so he could tend his cattle back in Lake Crystal.

No events were scheduled on our campaign for Saturday afternoon so my family and I took a ride in our minivan with an intended destination of the Mall of America. I thought it would be educational and interesting to watch the Senate DFL debate so we stopped on our way to the MOA. I knew from reading IDHA that this meeting was happening and was open to the general public. When we arrived at the Prior Lake High School in Savage, there was parking right up front. We noticed someone’s SUV totally plastered with Al Franken signs. A supporter or competitor? When we walked in to the debate it had already begun. There were plenty of people in the front row filming the candidates and liveblogging the event. There were still plenty of seats available in the back of the hall. Lori and our three daughters sat in the back where there was more room to be rambunctious. My son and I sat up close in the fifth row. A young woman sitting next to me was taking notes for a high school or college project. It was interesting to observe the interplay between the candidates and listen to the questions. I glanced at a front page New York Times article earlier yesterday which included a graph displaying the relative importance of various issues to Democratic and Republican voters in Iowa and New Hampshire. The online version doesn’t appear to have this same graph. It tells a story of different priorities, priorities that will occupy us in the months and years ahead. There was an interesting moment when Al Franken stated ‘I should let you know there is a Republican in the audience.’ This caught my son’s attention and he looked at me. Then Al said, ‘His name is Dr. B…ob Meaders, founder of Operation Helmet.’ My son really got a kick out of this. He thought I behaved as if I knew I was being singled out in the audience. One can still run for public office and remain anonymous though that’s not necessarily the intent.

Towards the end of the debate I noticed a fellow who looked like DJ Danielson of IDHA. If you get your photo on the internet and write about candidates, who knows what can happen - someone might just come up to you at an unexpected moment and say…. hello. I noticed that DJ had a Hubert Humphrey button on his sweater. I recall a story that retired radio announcer Harley Flathers told me about the Senator. Harley met Senator Humphrey once and felt compelled to let him know that he was a Republican. As Harley relates the story, the senator then told him in a slow and deliberate voice, ‘We accept converts.’ I get to hear many interesting stories meeting with donors and party activists. In any event, I suggested to DJ that he could interview me at some point if he wishes since he has taken an interest in the 1st District race and has written some detailed posts about it, at times both humorous and scathing. Harley is still a Republican and one of those ‘unitemized’ donors. I’m hopeful about DJ who has confessed some moderate political leanings. He’s halfway there. I’m just kidding here, but we do continue to look for converts.

After the meeting we made our way to the MOA and had dinner. Our two youngest ones got to ride the Merry Go Round and the two oldest rode the ‘The Mighty Axe’. Even at $3 a gallon it was a worthwhile trip.

On Sunday morning, we went to Church and Sunday School and then went to the Veteran’s Day service written about briefly in one of the preceding posts.

#3: Meet and Greet in St. James: This event was organized by the Watonwan County Republican Party. Klarice and others sponsored this event which occurred in the Legion Hall in downtown St. James. It was a beautiful day for flying once above the clouds surrounding RST. This leg of the journey was courtesy of John and his Bonanza. We left Rochester at 2:15 pm and made it to St. James shortly after 3 pm. I was forewarned by text message to ‘be prepared for media.’ Ryan Gustafson of KEYC Channel 12 in Mankato filmed statements from each of the candidates prior to our talks. After Mark was first to give his speech the audience was given the opportunity to ask questions. No one came forward right away with questions, so one of the other candidates asked him if he got all his cattle in from the preceding day. Each candidate was asked if they would abide by the endorsement. All candidates stated they would. Thanks go to Virgil for picking John and I up at the airport.

#4: Senate District 22 BPOU meeting in Windom (Monday, November 12): We each gave our campaign speeches in the back room of Jade’s Steakhouse. For some reason the music was pretty loud in the adjacent tavern. ‘Simple Man’ by Lynyrd Skynyrd was one of the tunes. It seemed quite appropriate at the time. Among the attendees at this event was the future mayor of Jackson. Tanner is a couple years shy of a driver’s license so he had a family member provide the transportation. This day was the longest. A full tank of gas was used to drive 432 miles from Rochester, to Le Seuer, Bloomington, Windom and back home. Twenty-six miles to the gallon was pretty good mileage.

#5: Mower County Republican Party Candidate Forum (Tuesday, November 13): This event was moderated by Jeff Anderson and attended by several dozen local Republicans. We answered written questions from the audience. Reuben, Klarence, Lew, Lavonne and others did an excellent job organizing this event. A number of these events are planned in December and January leading up to February 5, the caucus date.

Five events in Four Days

2007-11-15T02:25:00.001-04:00

....coming soon...

(For those paying close attention we switched our blog settings to Central Standard Time from Pacific Time.)

Veteran's Day at the New Life Worship Center

2007-11-11T14:54:00.000-04:00

Over one-thousand gathered today at the New Life Worship Center in Rochester to honor our veterans who have defended and sacrificed for the liberty and security of our nation. Governor Pawlenty was introduced by State Senator Dave Senjem and gave a moving speech. The program was over an hour and was a fitting tribute for our veterans.