Candidates viewpoint: Local-level experience provides vision for Minnesota Legislature

During this summer and fall, I have been meeting many of you at your front doors. I have enjoyed talking to you about the economy, health care, education and the importance of family. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I look forward to hearing from you as I work hard to meet more of you before the election.

I am a registered nurse and my husband, Bruce, is a family practice physician in at the Entira Clinic in Woodbury. I understand the challenges that face Minnesota’s health care system. I work as a nursing supervisor for St. Mary’s Health Clinics, a nonprofit organization that provides free health care to people who do not have health insurance. I understand the cost of health care and the impact it has on the citizens of our community.

By keeping health care in the private market, rather than a single payer one size fits all type of delivery system, every Minnesotan will have the ability to make their own medical decisions based on the recommendations of their physician.

I have served as a School Board member for nine years and I understand the importance of a strong education system for student success.

I also understand the importance of fiscal responsibility. Funding education is crucial to giving students the type of education that gives them competitive opportunities in the job market and provides for the innovation that will restore Minnesota’s economy by creating jobs. However, districts must identify their educational priorities and put in place programs that address those priorities, while staying within the budgetary restrictions of their district.

I have seen firsthand the impact that decisions made at the state Legislature have at the local level, and I want to become an active participant in that process.

If elected, I will bring my knowledge of health care and education with me to ensure we are simultaneously protecting the programs Minnesota needs, stimulating job growth, and restoring Minnesota’s economy.

I am grateful for this opportunity provided by the Woodbury Bulletin to reach out to the residents of 53A. If you would like further information, please visit my website at www.pamcunningham.net.

I have heard your voices and I will take your thoughts with me to the Capitol.

I ask for your support on Nov. 6, and I look forward to serving this community at the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Cunningham is the Republican candidate running for House District 53A

Tags: opinion, viewpoint, elections, updates