My Campaign for Ramsey County Commissioner

I’ve spent many years in political activism, both professionally and as a volunteer, but this year, I’ve decided to take it a step further and throw my hat into the ring as a candidate for public office.

Here’s a bit about myself and my aims, should I be elected to the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, representing district 2.

I was born 1971 in Minneapolis and lived around the Twin Cities all my life. I’ve had a lot of jobs, owned a couple small businesses and worked in and around politics for many years. I’ve been an executive director, president and communications director for non-profit organizations, chairman of a ballot committee, campaign manager and a registered lobbyist.

I’ve also held government accountable, having initiated several lawsuits against different agencies to uphold the rule of law. I’ve won cases in both the Minnesota and United States Supreme Courts.

I’m a creative thinker, artistic and an author. I’m also an analytical researcher.

Some of my past professions included retail store owner, house painter, chauffeur and courier. I’m experienced in the political arena, but I know what real work is. I’ve worked in fast food restaurants and gas stations. I know how real life can kick a person around and I know how to get back up. I’ve been divorced. I’ve lost a home. I’ve been unemployed. I’ve overcome addiction. I’ve survived hard times – Just like most people have to do. I know what I want from government and I think it’s what most people want.

It’s my hope that I can contribute to our community and improve the level of service county government provides to its citizens. Government is supposed to work for us, not the other way around!

These are my core positions:

On Government Service – First and foremost, I believe that government exists to serve the people and not the other way around! Every interaction citizens have with their government should be oriented to give the best level of service, quickly, painlessly and efficiently. If there’s ever an obligation for a citizen to pay a fee, complete a form or otherwise deal with the county, the onus should be on the government to make it as smooth and simple as possible.

On Taxation – Taxes are a necessary evil in civil society. We all know we have to pay them, but government is obligated to be a good steward of public dollars and only collect what is needed to provide the services the people expect. The taxpayers can’t be viewed as a bottomless pot of money to fund every bureaucratic dream project!

On Priorities – Core services that make everyone’s quality of life, safety and living standards better should be the priority in county government. This is no place for grandstanding and pushing agendas. We need smooth roads with good transportation options, safe neighborhoods, healthy environments, pleasant parks and libraries to maintain communities we can be proud of.

Conclusion

If you like the way things have been going, you might not want to vote for me, but I really hope you do, because I already told my Dad that I won.

Please check out my campaign website at DanMcGrath.org.