Blazing a New Trail Together

Dear Neighbor,

There has been a barrage of campaign communication coming at us everywhere we turn. If you are like me, we just shut it out. The closer it gets, the higher my wall becomes.

That is why reaching out to you now is so challenging. What words can I write to reach you? How can I pierce through the clutter of negativity and false promise?

I have represented our community for seven years. My political career was born out of a drastic life change – after twenty years in business leadership I stepped off the “executive track” and on to the “mommy track.” I had a house full of teenagers and it was chaos at my home. I truly felt that the success of my teenagers’ education hinged on my being able to be at home. I was so lucky to have that opportunity. It became the source of my desire to truly give back. So, when three of the four were off to college, I ran for office. I literally had no political experience other than having fought for education funding as a parent.

I have found this work to be a true calling for me. I bring my business background, coupled with my experience in the community and as a mom of a blended family of four, to my work at the Capitol. The outpouring of community support for a new style of leadership has allowed me to leverage my skills and make meaningful change for our State.

When I reached out to you and asked for help to restructure government to lower costs, you were my partner. We now have implemented the IT Consolidation Act, saving millions of dollars. 
When I told you I wanted to fight for a new way to decide who can teach in our schools you said, “We agree; go for it.” We passed the alternative certification law allowing Teach For America to expand in our toughest schools. 
When I told you I was against raising income taxes and I thought we should lower business taxes and do what’s unpopular; expand the base of the sales tax, you understood and have been in agreement.
When you came to me and said our laws are keeping the Wayzata school district from expanding, I discovered you were right and we fixed it without raising property taxes. 
When I was shown how close the proposed new power lines were being placed to your homes I became your champion for change.

Together we have shown the State that we in our community rise above partisan politics. We are concerned citizens and there are many leaders among us. I am as strong or as weak as our partnership.

I ask for your vote on November 6th. I am blazing a new trail, I am not a “tax and spend” liberal. I am a driven leader with high standards and a compassionate style. I believe in the magic of our children, the innovation of our young adults, the responsibility of our baby boomers and the dignity and wisdom of our seniors. Please place your vote for our powerful partnership.

With humble gratitude,

Terri E. Bonoff