FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2010
CONTACT: Luke Friedrich (952) 405-8510 / Andrew Foxwell (202) 225-2871

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today passed an amendment in the House Financial Services Committee that would require any funding returned to the government from new small business loan legislation be used to pay down our nation’s debt.  The amendment, offered to H.R. 5297, the Small Business Lending Fund Act of 2010, was co-sponsored by Representatives Leonard Lance of New Jersey and Randy Neugebauer of Texas and passed by voice vote.

“Spending in Washington is out of control. It jeopardizes the long-term fiscal health of the United States and threatens the future of our children and grandchildren,” Paulsen said.  “It was my fear that the $30 billion authorized by this legislation would turn into more ‘walking around money’ for the government.  We must not allow that to happen and I was pleased this amendment passed today.”

Paulsen’s efforts mirrors similar efforts he’s made to ensure bailout funds returned to government go towards reducing the debt rather than additional government spending. 

We received a report regarding ARRA stimulus spending in Hennepin County at our board meeting on Tuesday.  According to the most recent report prepared by Hennepin County covering the period through December 31, 2009:  “More than $718 million in Recovery Act dollars funded as many as 726 projects at more than 200 different organizations and agencies across Hennepin County.”  Total number of jobs created or retained as a result:  2599.62.

That translates to a little over $276,000 per job created or retained (and that is using what has proven to be a VERY generous method of calculating jobs created or retained).

The following article was written by Michael Gerson and appeared in today's edition of The Washington Post.  

"Something is happening for the first time of my adult life," Pawlenty continues. "Average people, not activists, are openly talking about debt and the deficit with an understanding that it matters. They know something is amiss. One of the driving sentiments is that government is out of control...

If the problem is deficits, Pawlenty believes he is the solution. From 1960 to 2002, state spending in Minnesota increased by an average of 21 percent every two years. As governor, Pawlenty has held the growth of spending to just over 2 percent annually. Last year, he cut state spending in real terms -- the first time that has happened in 150 years. "We cut everything except public safety and K through 12 education," he says. "We changed the entitlement structure." All while moving Minnesota off the list of the top 10 most heavily taxed states.

The Rockin' Rogers Days are coming! From June 24 - 27, enjoy a carnival, live bands, a classic car show, a softball tournament, food and more. On Saturday, June 26, you have the chance to walk with one of your favorite Republican officials. We don't know exactly who will be walking in the parade yet, but you can be assured that we'll be well represented. If you'd like to walk in the parade with us, contact our This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and let her know. And keep your eye on this site for more information.

For more details on the Rockin' Rogers days, click here.