Second Democrat Kicks Off Paulsen Challenge

By Emily Cadei | December 1, 2009 12:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Democrat Jim Meffert, the executive director of the Minnesota Optometrists Association and president of the state PTA, formally announced his campaign in Minnesota's 3rd District Tuesday. The incumbent, Rep. Erik Paulsen (R), is one of three GOP freshmen in districts President Barack Obama won in 2008.

Meffert filed the paperwork and confirmed he was running last month.

In a statement, Meffert said his experience as a non-profit executive would inform his work in Congress. "Running a non-profit has all the same elements of any business," Meffert said. "We have to set priorities with our budget, benefits we offer to employees, programs we want to continue, and every other item as our revenue fluctuates with the economic uncertainty."

"Having a representative in Congress who truly knows these challenges first-hand helps shape the way in which issues will be addressed," he said.

Forensic psychiatrist Maureen Hackett (D) launched her campaign last month and state Sen. Terri Bonoff is still looking at the race.

CQ Politics rates the general election contest Leans Republican.

To follow all the 2010 Senate races, check out our election map.

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