Gubernatorial hopeful stops in Ely

The election is nearly two years away, but the race to be Minnesota’s next governor has already begun.Democrat Bud Philbrook is looking to get a leg up on the field - and build name recognition after 20 years away from politics - by conducting town-hall style meetings around the state.He met about 25 Ely area voters Jan. 30 during just such a gathering at the Piragis Northwoods Company.Philbrook, who lives in Maplewood, charged the administration headed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) with taking the state in the wrong direction and pledged to center his campaign on what he’s dubbed “E3,” adequately funded education, a strong economy and a clean environment.“It’s pretty simple,” said Philbrook. “I will honor Minnesota’s core values and I will engage the citizens and the legislators.”Philbrook engaged those at the Ely session during a nearly two-hour visit, gathering their views on Minnesota’s assets, what’s working and what’s not in state government, and potential priorities for the next three-to-six years.And admitting that he’s an “unknown outsider” in the race, Philbrook introduced himself and detailed his qualifications for the state’s highest elected post.Philbrook has experience in Minnesota politics and government, but it was a generation ago.After graduating from the University of Minnesota and the University of Hamline School of Law, he served a term in the Minnesota House of Representatives during the mid-1970s. He later worked under former Gov. Rudy Perpich as the assistant commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, before leaving government to enter private business.Philbrook spent the last 20 years building Global Volunteers, which mobilizes service learning teams and has coordinated volunteer missions in 20 countries and around the United States His company has been featured on national television networks including CNN and CBS as well as the Oprah Winfrey show.His return to politics coincides with increased time and energy to mount a campaign and growing alarm over trends in Minnesota.Philbrook blamed Minnesota’s string of budget deficits on tax cuts implemented during the administration headed by former Gov. Jesse Ventura. The state collects a smaller percentage of overall income in taxes than it did 10 years ago. According to Philbrook, those cuts cost the state $28 billion in revenue.Pawlenty has opposed tax increases, but Philbrook said a reversal of tax policy is needed both to balance the budget and bring equity to the system.“In Minnesota, 97 percent of the people pay between 10 and 12 percent of our income in state taxes,” said Philbrook. “The top three percent pay between 7 and 8 percent. I’m not talking about raising taxes. I’m talking about fair taxation. Those of us who earn more ought to at least pay the same percentage of those who are earning less.”Philbrook pushed for further investment in public education and touted support for environmental protections.Questioned about environmental permitting for business initiatives, including possible mining expansion on the Iron Range, Philbrook didn’t address specifics but said “I’m not willing to risk the environment to create jobs.”“I strongly believe we can have a very positive business climate while ensuring a very clean environment,” said Philbrook.Philbrook said he also hoped to close the economic divide between the Twin Cities and parts of rural Minnesota.Personally opposed to abortion on religious grounds, Philbrook said he nonetheless opposes imposing his religious viewpoint on others through government action.The session in Ely was the 12th of what Philbrook said will be as many as 500 listening sessions around the state.Philbrook is the only Democrat in the race thus far. Other possible candidates mentioned in DFL circles include Attorney General Mike Hatch, State Sen. Becky Lourey, Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson and Hennepin County Attorney Amy Klobuchar, the daughter of former Elyite Jim Klobuchar.Pawlenty has not yet announced whether he’ll seek re-election.Philbrook said he’s pursue the DFL endorsement but participate in the party’s primary election regardless of the endorsement result.