Friday, July 10, 2009

A Man's Reach -- A Transforming Life, 40: On Governing

Elmer at the State Capitol, St. Paul

"I see government as the people's partner, a useful tool in getting the people's work done. I hate the impression that some politicians convey today that government dominates people and that we have to minimize government. Government is the way people have of getting together and cooperating to get things done. Of course, government is complicated. This is a big country. Of course, government reflects human weaknesses and frailties and difficulties. People run it. And they need it."

"I was a fighter as a legislator. As governor, I took a more evenhanded approach to some issues. I had my pet projects—the taconite amendment was one—on which I was more active. I also had strong concern about protection of natural resources. But on other matters, I believed legislators should own up to their responsibility to make decisions. I let them work out their differences."

Courtesy Elmer L. and Eleanor J. Andersen Family

"A Man's Reach -- A Transforming Life" is on display through August 15 in the Exhibit Gallery, Elmer L. Andersen Library, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus.

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