Mining for votes on the Iron Range

Working on his reelection bid Congressman Pete Stauber joined up with Minnesota Republican candidate for governor, Dr. Scott Jensen campaigning on the Iron Range.

On Thursday both candidates visited the cities of Virginia and Eveleth. Stauber and Jensen made it clear they support copper-nickel mining in Northern Minnesota that would expect to bring more good paying jobs to the Iron Range. However, copper-nickel mining is also controversial as opponents stress there is a higher risk of water pollution compared to traditional mining.

Stauber said mining operations and supply chains weakened, because of environmental regulations. He says he is also planning on bringing mining jobs back to the Northland. “And it’s about time that that we really fight to bring that economy here to Minnesota. That makes so much sense to mine and process here.” Stauber said.

While talking about his plan to those gathered Governor Jensen pledged he is “100% in their corner on making sure that their way of life and families are protected.” Jensen punched his 10 points on making the Iron Range more prosperous. “We are here to make certain that union miners get a chance to mine and that the world can benefit.” Jensen said.

WDIO reached out to MN State Rep Jen Schultz. She is Stauber’s challenger for Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District in the upcoming midterm election. Schultz stressed the importance of collaborating with others to ensure mining can operate efficiently and environmentally friendly. “We need the minerals to move towards alternative energy and clean energy. And so this is a big problem. I don’t see Jensen and I don’t see Stauber working on any solutions, but they’re not helping at all. I’m worried about more of the mines idling.” Schultz said.

Stauber says his main focus for improving mining in Minnesota is removing of government restrictions. Schultz says her plan is to get federal funds for alternative energy production and storage used for mining.

Rep. Stauber and Schultz have two more debates before Election Day on November 8. Both candidates will be debating next Monday October 24th in Brainerd. A final forum between the two is scheduled for 4 p.m. Oct. 28.

Scott Jensen will have a 40 minute question and answer session you can watch on Debate Night in Minnesota this Sunday. This special election coverage starts at 6:00 p.m. on WDIO-TV, wdio.com, and WDIO’s YouTube channel. Governor Walz was invited to debate Jenson during this election coverage, but the governor declined this debate.

You can watch the first debate between Congressman Pete Stauber and Minnesota Rep. Jen Schultz from Wednesday, October 19 by clicking on the link.