Almanac: At the Capitol

Here's the word directly from Joe Atkins:

A SENATE RUN? When I was approached about a possible run for the U.S. Senate at the start of the legislative session, I said I'd look at it when the legislature adjourned in May.

Since that word got out, I have been astounded at the flood of kind letters, calls and emails I have received * now numbering over 1000 * encouraging me to join the race. Mainstream Minnesotans are clearly looking for a candidate who can carry some common sense to our nation's capital.

However, while I deeply appreciate the support and encouragement, my heart lies here in Minnesota. Many of the issues that matter most to me and to most Minnesota families * quality schools, access to health care, lower property taxes, better transportation, protecting consumers and our great outdoors * are crying out for real vision and genuine leadership here in Minnesota. Leadership isn't about standing up for the privileged and the powerful and simply saying what you oppose. It's about standing up for the little guy, bringing folks together, and moving Minnesota forward. I look forward to continuing to do just that.