MAPE Executive Director Jim Monroe's Statement on Governor Dayton’s State of the State Address

For Immediate Release                              Contact: Leslie Sandberg (651) 746-9767

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

MAPE’s Executive Director Jim Monroe's Statement on Governor Dayton’s State of the State Address

“Governor Dayton’s State of the State Address reminds all of us what Minnesotans really want – good paying jobs, an excellent education system, and a government that efficiently provides important state services to its citizens. 

There is still time for Minnesota’s legislative leadership to redirect its efforts back to these bread and butter issues rather than focusing on social issues and a political agenda meant to punish those citizens who support DFL elected officials. 

Governing should not be about scoring political points or the next election.  True leadership comes from making tough decisions during this session to benefit all Minnesotans, preserve our middle class and leave the state in better economic shape than it is in today.”

Minnesota Responds:  State Employees Join Governor Dayton’s Call for Government Reform

Saint Paul – Following Governor Dayton’s State of the State Address, leadership from the two largest state employee unions praised his call for improving government services.  

“Governor Dayton’s State of the State Address reminds all of us what Minnesotans really want – good paying jobs, an excellent education system, and a government that efficiently provides important state services to its citizens,” said Minnesota Association of Professional Employees Executive Director Jim Monroe.

AFSCME Council 5 Executive Director Eliot Seide said, “Governor Dayton shares our commitment to good jobs and economic fairness – and we join him in asking the Legislature to focus on getting Minnesota back to work.  Frontline public workers welcome the opportunity to partner with the Dayton Administration to improve service delivery for the people of Minnesota.  Together, we can create a better Minnesota where everyone has the opportunity to prosper.” 

In his remarks, the Governor praised Department of Agriculture employee Harley Olinske for his work to save taxpayers money.  Governor Dayton said, “Mr. Olinske epitomizes the dedicated state employees, who work hard every day, and get little credit.”

For additional information, see:

• State of State: Governor calls for teamwork, draws line Star Tribune

• Union leaders praise Governor Dayton's focus on jobs Workday MN

• Governor Dayton Delivers State of the State Address (from the Governor's Office)