Horner addresses IP convention
Public relations executive and former Republican Tom Horner was the second candidate to speak to the IP convention.
Horner's wife Libby spoke on his behalf after a brief demonstration. Former DFL congressman and IP gubernatorial candidate Tim Penny also spoke.
"As a former legislator and a former member of Congress I know what it takes to lead," Penny said. "Tom Horner stands with Minnesota."
Echoing former IP Gov. Jesse Ventura, Penny said Gov. Tim Pawlenty should title his upcoming memoir "I Ain't Got Time to Lead."
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Horner said Minnesota clearly needs new leadership. He cited this week's unallotment decision, and said legislators seem to have simultaneous amnesia and déjà vu when it comes to the state's budget problems.
"We are at a critical crossroads for our state's future," Horner said. Quoting Theodore Roosevelt he said Minnesota must "act big" to address the state's economic problems.
He tied the endorsed GOP and DFL candidates to a dysfunctional Legislature.
"Minnesota needs independent leadership to break free from the status quo," he said. "We need to fundamentally change how government functions."
He promised not to listen to special interests and said he would create competitive legislative districts as governor.
"The financial crisis facing our state is overwhelming," he said. He said Minnesotans expectations of government must change.
He said he would make tough choices, and if that means he is a one term governor, so be it.