Letter to the editor: Kieffer knows how to listen to her constituents

Thank you, Andrea Kieffer, for your listening sessions. By offering the citizens of Woodbury this chance to attend these sessions, we learn about the present issues and concerns happening on the political scene.

Your previous sessions have been so informative and educational that even your opponent Ann Marie Metzger and her campaign manager were present to video tape your entire session last week. Perhaps they were hopeful that they may also learn what the real political system is like from a seasoned state representative.

The discussion largely focused on the photo ID – is it a good idea, does it infringe on rights, is there really voter fraud in Minnesota? There were very different viewpoints, but I was impressed how Andrea encouraged and guided the group in sharing their opinions in an open and respectful arena.

Another person asked Andrea to comment on a Bulletin viewpoint by her opponent, Ms. Metzger. She said she read it, and it was a nice introduction. She said all of the candidates were asked by the Bulletin to submit something, but the listening session is not a forum to have a debate with her opponent.

She took notes to bring back to the Capitol, she offered additional information in print for constituents to take home, and she made sure there were quiet moments where we could think about what we would like to talk about next.

If you have not had the opportunity to talk with Andrea yet, you should. It is important to know the person you vote for in November, and I am confident that Andrea takes the role of “representative” very seriously. She has my support.

John Lenich - Woodbury

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion, updates