Dave Johnson? Why Is Vin Weber Attacking Him? Partly As a Consequence of This, Johnson's Name I.D

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I2j Maintain (Return to Office) O- Destroy (Shred)

*REQUIRED INFORMATION 1111111111111111111111111111111 TO: Sen. Harkin FR: Rod Benson RE: Campaign events for David Johnson on 7/9 DA: 20 June 1986

This campaign is in many ways similar to Wayne Cryts' Missouri campaign -- disillusioned farmer decides to run for Congress and make a differrence in farm policies. Johnson was even a Republican national delegate, before he switched over to the Demo party and decided to challenge New Right (conservative opportunity society chairman) Vin Weber.

Johnson won the nomination, with only token opposition, at the district party convention on 5/10 with 76 percent of the vote. On most issues, Johnson is very progressive -- stopping excessive military spending, support for nuclear freeze, get the U.S. out of Central America, etc. He is a pro-lifer, however, which has alienated some of his natural Democratic constituency. Johnson is portraying Weber as a slick Washington politico, ultra-right winger. Weber, however, as made some smart moves. He voted for the Harkin farm bill in the House, against passage of the '85 farm bill, and for the House Democrats' budget bill.

Weber has attacked Johnson some for switching parties. But I'm told by Johnson's campaign that this has, if anything, helped Johnson. Peope started asking? Who is this Dave Johnson? Why is Vin Weber attacking him? Partly as a consequence of this, Johnson's name i.d. has gone from being 19 % at the end of March, to 44 % 5 weeks later, to an estimated 65 % currently.

Talking points are enclosed. The message here ought to be basically the same as for the other farm-belt Democrats -- with special emphasis on:

*Conservative opportunity society -- "privileged society" *Aid to contras (Weber has spent a lot of time since winning office to help "freedom fighters" but he's a really Johnny come lately when it comes to the farm crisis) *Running away from the President now (Weber has been almost as adept as Grassley in removing himself from the President) -- but Weber was strong supporter of tax giveaways for rich, massive military buildup, "voodoo economics" that ruined farm economy. Weber is an "ideologue" who's more concerned with his pet theories than helping the people of his district. They would like to hold three events: (1) Private reception -- big donors (2) Press conference (3) Outdoor rally/hog roast (10-15 dollar donors) A week prior to your visit, Tim Penny will be campaigning for Johnson. Tony Coelho will be coming out the 1st or 2nd of July. * * Talking points dampaign rally for David Johnson Minnesota July 9, 1986

I. Here: because -- A. crisis in rural America: farm foreclosures, small businesses closing doors, small towns dying, it's getting worse not better, need a change

B. Admiration for David Johnson -- Harry Truman: "Only one test of friendship. It is a test of the heart. You know without being told who is your friend and who is not your friend." -- Proud to consider David a friend "of the heart" etc. --David has shown he has the courage of his convictions and the strength to stand up and fight for them -- no higher comliment can be paid to a man --Switched parties: not out of opportunity, out of conviction and principle --Believed Republicans had betrayed district, tried to change Republican policies from within, learned it was useless: Republican party has been taken over by radical right-wing ideologues, including the incumbent in this district

C. David can make a difference -- far beyond change in one vote in House -- victory here, and in handful of other Senate/House races (SD, ND, WI, Wayne Cryts, Colin Peterson, IA House races) -- will send clear message to Wash. for new direction in farm policies

II. David -- "Friend" who will stand up and fight for you -- not, like Reagan/members of his party: when times are bad, point a finger and say "it's your fault."

A. Rgn says farmers "inefficient" -- his policies are "inefficient" --Japan (1/2 population, twice # farmers -- inefficient?)

B. Repub. "farm bill" -- supposed to get govt out, but $4/$5 next 5 yrs. from govt paycheck, cut farm income in MN $400 million. --Costs up: from $50 to $75 billion, Gramm-Rudman force even deeper cuts --solution: increase exports -- but wheat exports this year just 50% of '81, corn surplus reach higher level than PIK --milk at 52% parity: whole-herd dairy buyout, eliminate 50 % dairy industry in MN, soon start shipping milk from South to Northl)

III. No accident -- result of deliberate policies: --fewer farmers, larger landholdings, etc. --"Conservative Opp. Society" -- privileged society, opportunity for rich and powerful to get more rich and powerful --Harry Truman: "How many times do you have to be hit on the head before you find out what's hitting you?

IV. Some Republicans say -- not me, the president -- but give him support on budget, defense, Central America, tax giveaways to rich, farm bills --Not just RR failure, etc. -- failure of party, must be held accountable

V. Time to elect reps/sens. who will give more than lip-service to farmers, and stand up and fight for new direction! --true market-oriented, bring supply in line with demand --only bill reduce deficit, increase farm income --give farmers a voice in own destiny --raise farm income in marketplace, not from gov't paycheck

VI. Time to get our priorities straight

--Rgn. admin: no more money for FmHA loans, but $180 M for Honduran president, $100 M for contras, $136 M for El Salvador "Central America v. Central America"

VII. Time to get our economy back in balance (TJ "due balance")

--Too many people money off money, not enough in agriculture, manuf, energy, producing!

-- 1982-85: farm-land value fall $146 B = assets of 11 major U.S. corporations such as IBM, General Electric, Kodak, McDonalds -- say can't help farmers, but if it were these big corporations going under and not our farmers and small businesses -- think Repub. would have same attitude?

John Deere Waterloo -- "food so cheap lost my job" -- (now Hardees/K-Mart -- less money, twice as many hours -- Rgn. says two new jobs -- "progress")

VIII. Silent, unspoken truth -- 200-year-old American dream dying IX. Century farm story

X. Not too late -- can turn it around --change with right policies/right people like David Johnson --I'm here because I want him there --You have opportunity to make a change -- urge you, do all you can, not just for yourself, for children --Just like Minutemen of old -- "shot heard round the world." JOHNSON CONGRE SS

Dave Johnson: to protect our Minnesota way of life!

Dave Johnson is a family farmer in Minnesota's Second Congressional District and a lifelong resident of Hector, Minnesota. Dave has long been active in efforts to improve Minnesota's agricultural economy. He was a co- founder of the Renville Sugar Beet Co-op, and organized MN F.A.I.R. to halt the dumping of hazardous waste on prime Minnesota farmland.

As Second District Congressman,, Dave Johnson will:

Fight for Main Street, not Wall Street.,

Fight to turn around our farm and snmall busines economy.

Fight to scrap the '85 farm bill'and work for a common sense farm policy which will raise prices in the marketplace.

Fight o change Washington's spending priorities. Stop' billio'ns of dollars in foreign aid Trim" the budget ... let's help rural Arrierica'first!

Fight to protect Minnesota's environment.

Fight for jobs and economic development. 7W S k

Dave and Miriam Johnson are third generation farmers who have raised four children on their Renville County farm. They know the challenges of raising and educating a family, and the struggles facing farmers and small businesses.

Dave Johnson shares your concerns and will speak out for you. He will use his experience to strengthen your voice in Washington.

"I became a Democrat because of my frustration with Republican farm policy. I'm running for Congress because rural Minnesota can no longer withstand the policies of neglect. . . . Our farmers and small businesses are going under."

"Our way of life is threatened. It's time to send a message to Washington now!"

"I pledge to provide a, total commitment to solving our rural crisis."

Dave Johnson needs your help to send the Minnesota message to Washington. Please call (612) 235-5689, or write: Dave Johnson, P.O. Box 815, Willmar, MN 56201

Paid tor by the Dave Johnso to Congres, Com ittee, Dolores Nelon Treasurer, Willmar, MN 56201 5 Design: HAley lohnon More on Johnson -

--Besides taking on the "party switching" issue head-on by saying it was an action of conscience and soul-searchinQ. and realizing the Republican party couldn't be chanqed from within

-- Also. stress these points:

.- Johnson a working farmer for 28 years *orking family farm passed down through 3 generations

--Johnson knows understands -- instinctively intuitively -- the problems farmers are having because he's been there, in fact he's still in there, struggling like the rest of the people in this district

* -- Johnson has the same stake in the future of the district that the rest of its residents have. He'll orovide a strona voice in Washiniton for the district. he'll be unwavering and unflagging and unequivocal in his positions (one way perhaps to get at Weber's all-over-the road voting record as of late). THE NEW YORK TIMES, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1986.

Politics

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By STEVEN V. ROBERTS farm from his father in 1957 and Special to The New York Times watched it prosper. An operation that WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 - Dave earned about $40,000 a year at that Johnson has the thick hands and 9 i, 4 time was producing $500,000 annually weathered face of a-working farmer, 25 years later. not a politician. He looks uncomfort- Mr. Johnson started dabbling in able in a suit, and his tie does not local politics when he helped organize seem to knot right. . a growers' cooperative to build a But Mr. Johnson is one of the more sugar beet processing plant, and that intriguing figures to emerge thus far experience "whet my appetite a bit," in this political season. This month he he recalled. Then came a successful announced that he was leaving the-,- campaign to block a waste disposal Republican Party and seeking the site in Renville County, and the i Democratic nomination for Congress farmer found himself courted by the in the Second District of Minnesota. local Republican Party. Dozens of politicians have moved He had been drifting away from the; from Democratic to Republican Democrats, he said, because he dis- ranks in recent years, but Mr. John- agreed with the notion. that "govern- son is one of the few to shift in the ment was the panacea for every- other direction. Moreover, Minneso- thing." He voted for Ronald Reagan ta's. Second District depends more in 1980 because he liked the Republi-. heavily on agriculture than almost :can's stress on "fiscal responsibility" any other in the country, and national and the need to-balance the Federal officials from both parties are watch- budget. Soon he was area chairman ing Mr. Johnson's campaign for clues for the Republican Party and a dele- to the political climate in the Farm gate to the party's national conven- Belt. tion in 1984. Democrats say the farm crisis in But as the President's second term the Middle West offers their best op- began, Mr. Johnson grew disillu- portunity for politicAl gains next fall. sioned. The budget deficit was getting And as Peter Fenn, Mr. Johnson's bigger, not smaller, and he disagreed campaign consultant, put it, "If strongly with Mr. Reagan's emphasis there's a place in the country where TheNewYw*Mres/JoseR.Lopez on higher military spending. But the the farm issue will cut, this is it." DaveJohnson at the Capitol. real issue was the collapse of the Seeking Money and Credibility farm economy and the way of life Mr. Johnson had always known. Mr. Johnson is in the capital this points up how difficult it is for any week talking to party officials, tap- challenger to unseat an incumbent, Towns as 'Old-Age Homes' ping potential contributors and look- even in a time of economic upheaval. "The ramifications are so pro- ing for credibility. "Unless you come Only 17 House members who ran found," Mr. Johnson said. "They i to Washington," said one Democratic for re-election in 1984 lost their seats, threaten to change what I grew up aide, "your candidacy is not taken less than 5 percent of the total. And with and believe in. Our small towns! seriously." the main reason is that most incum- are being turned into old age homes." Joseph Gaylord, executive director bents, like Mr. Weber, spend a lot of In Mr. Johnson's home town of Hec- of the National Republican Congres- time going home, doing favors and tor, population 1,100, farm implement' sional Committee,' says his party "taking advantage of every oppor- dealers are closing down. Churches "takes the challenge seriously" in the tunity to communicate with their con- are losing members and contribu- Second District, which is now repre- 1.stituents,"-As Mr: Gaylord said.'.'. - tions. "And very few farmers under sented by Vin Weber, a Republican What Mr. Johnson as the Demo- 40 are in business anymore," he said. who was publisher of a family-owned cratlc challenger has going for him is As a result of economic pressures, newspaper before going to Congress. a powerful issue and a compelling Mr. Johnson himself has leased his in 1981. 1 story. His grandfather immigrated to farm lands in recent years. But Mr. Gaylord insists that farm Minnesota from Sweden at the end of Eventually, Mr. Johnson decided problems "are not a Republican- the last century, and Johnsons have that by switching parties, he could Democratic issue" and that public been farming th same land in Ren- make his Congressional race into a opinion surveys,"have not detected ville County since then. referendum on the Reagan Adminis- any weaknesses" among Republican Mr. Johnson's father was a Roose- tration's farm policies. candidates on the issue. velt Democrat in the Depression, and " we win the referendum," he Mr. Gaylord argues that Mr. John- the candidate remembers hearing sai , we wit send a message toaUf son can be attacked as a "bit of an op. from him that "the Republicans America that the Administting's portunist" for changing parties. And cared only for the rich." Now 53 years -Ri-iiZIM-policy smol has t he maintains that the second district old, Mr. Johnson bought the family Dave Johnson

Personal Data Address Born: November 15,1932 R.R. 1, Box 8 Wife: Miriam Johnson Hector, MN 55342 Children: Allison, Blair, Haley, Darris (612)848-2818

Professional Experience OWNER-OPERATOR, Rovid Farms, 1957 to present As the third generation of the Johnson family to farm in Renville County near Hector, Dave Johnson has witnessed the advances and changes in modern agriculture, as he guided the growth of his father's farm to its present acreage.

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA BEET SUGAR COOPERATIVE, 1968-1978 A key boardmember, Johnson organized the SMBSC, and planned, promoted, and faciliated the $60 million beet processing plant located in Renville. The co-op plant is a thriving rural business today.

MN F.A.I.R. (Minnesota Future Agricultural Interests Recognized), 1981-1983 The Minnesota Legislature enacted a Hazardous Waste Act in 1980. Under Dave Johnson's leadership, 1500 members raised $175,000 to collect and prepare materials for a scientific data base refuting the selection of the Renville and Sibley sites. In late 1982, the sites were eliminated as intrinsically unsuitable.

Church Data

National Director, Vice President 1974-1975 National Director, Secretary 1984-85 Trustee of Oregon Bible College, 1983-85

Education Hector Public High School University of Minnesota Farm School Tom Harkin

Personal Data Address born: 1939 317 HSOB married: Ruth Harkin Washington, DC 20510 church: Roman Catholic 202-224-3254

Professional Data

U.S. Senate from Iowa, elected: 1984

Committees:

Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry

Appropriations

Small Business

U.S. House of Representatives (IA-5) 1974-84

Attorney, 1972-74

U.S. Navy, 1962-67 Ht'0 M '4'

Farm Belt states may be key in '86 election

For 101 years, Win- * Mv throp, Minn., had a John t Deere dealership. Today, Anne and Vern 11ioe w 4$ 770 Hahn will auction off $2 farMs oper A n1 $85: million worth of tractors 1984 NsS P1 LISHED BY6, "V6! and close the doors for Am, dooiln.s I yo!y good on their Highway h 19 business. "The farmers lust TIWIRSDAY, ,JUNE , 1986, aren't buyiniL they have 5 no mone0." says Anne Han. "It's like we re ls Ing a way of livingrput here, and I don't hk rn cares." he Hahns story is one of thousands in Farm Belt states - Iowa, Missouri, Minne - sota, South Dakota, Ne- braska, and North Da-, kota among them - where a decaying agri- cultural economy Is ply- otal in 1986 elections. I "The farm vote is usu- ally a protest vote," says conservative analyst Ke-3 via Phillips. "It works 1 well for the 'out' party." '~Ml~i. .)-l00 . W u. 30 Polls in farm states re- veal overwhelming op- M 0T position to White House policy. T7 "Commodity prices are down, land values are down and credit can be problematic," says John Nooter of the American Farm Bureau. "Every Republican from a farm state has to expect to face a certain amount of heat." MIowa Republican Gov. Terry Branstad is running TV ads saying he "fought the president of his 'own party." * Nebraska and South Dakota feature wide open guber- natorial races with the farm economy as the mor issue. * U.S. Sens. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa., and Mark An- drews, R-N.D., have disassociated themselves from admin- istration farm policy. * Up to 20 farmer-candidates may toss their straw hats in the ring and challenge incumbent GOP congressmen. In Minnesota's 2nd District - where the Hahns' business failed - farmer David Johnson say third4erm Republican ReD. Vin Weber has nealected farmers. "There aren't any success stories." savs Johnson aidg .- John 'Van Heck the Reoublicwaihavaliotdelat

7:1-e 0 e TY M D0 !", 0 0,0 - The New Ulm Journal: July 5, 1986

Johnson views with alarm the 'cannibalization' of economy -Johnson critized the By AMY JO BRANDEL Reagan ad- (Rep. Vin Weber) in order to get ministration's market-oriented con- Staff Writer them to launch a different direction cepts and the lowering of price sup- on farm policy." ports as reasons for this economic Johrf'son said he was "greatly Democrat Dave sad- Johnson has ap- collaspe. dened" by the house vote to send plied a new term for what is hap- "This notion that we solve a grow- $100 million in aid to the contras in pening in the Second District - ing farm crisis by ever lowering Nicaragua. According to Johnson's economic cannibalization. -price supports is wrong," said polls, Second District voters are Johnson, a Ren- Johnson. "We see price supports yuile County against contra aid by a 75 percent to ,that have d±opped from $2.80 on 80 percent margin. farmer. is cam- _corn to $1.92 and wheat has dropped "How can my -representative paigning to unseat to $2.28. It's been carried to a represent this district and vote for ' Second District degree that is beyond bad govern- contra aid. which lands him next to representative 1 ment. It goes to the point where it the folks on the extreme right?" Republican Vin :has become virtually inhuman." said Johnson. "It is not the right Weber. answer for Nicaragua." "We are literal- In an effort to introduce "fair ly cannabalizing marketing" and positive farm and Johnson, campaigning since Oc- the farmers and small business policies for the Se- tober, believes .the election is win- the small cond District, Johnson dropped nable. "As I have talked to people," businesses of our district," Johnson from the Republican party to join he said, "I am convinced the ground told a DFL gathering in New Ulm DFL ranks. In order to change the is shaking with the need for a Tuesday. "When I say economic message in Washington, it's time to change." cannibalization. we are transferr- change to messenger. said Johnson. ing the wealti? farmers have in One-third of the Republican terms party of their equity base and "Because of the outrage that I felt has disappeared in the Second transferring it to the folks that eat over policy decision when there District, said Johnson. "The\ are the food in this country and the folks were many other policies in front of down to a 28 percent voters base that buy grain." us, I chose to tell the Republican ad- from 42 percent in 1984. They don't Farmers' financial bases have ministration to go take a jump in have the base they had then. It's dwindled, said Johnson. not the lake," said Johnson. "I turned clearly up for grabs. There is a 50 because of bad management but my back on them and and walked percent independent streak and that because of economic factors beyond away from them...including the streak is angry. They are going to producer's control. representative from this district throw him out of office." Dassel Dispatch: June 25, 1986

Candidate takes time out to reminisce, by Nancy Larson Johnson met with Democratic * In the midst of campaigning, leaders in the district and in Wash- Dave Johnson, DFL candidate for ington and in February of this year .Congress, took time out last week made the decision to switch parties to' reminisce about his grand- and to seek the DFL endorsement parents who had spent the first for Congress. years of their married life in Cokato. The focus of his campaign is the Johnson's grandfather, Frank rural farm crisis, which overlaps August Johnson, helped to build.'with the problems small businesses Stockholm Lutheran Church, and are facing, Johnson said. "1 think nearby lived Anna Charlotte Swan- people are ready for a change," he son, aunt of Carl Swanson, Cokato. said. "They are fed up with magic They met, married and lived in astericks and rosy scenarios as a Cokato for ten years before moving solution to the farm/rural depres- to South Dakota, where they home- sion." steaded until 1897, when drought Johnson is a strong advocate of forced them to relocate again. federal revenue sharing, especially With their eight children and since county, state and local units belongings in tow, they began a 'of government are facing severe move to Lake of the Ozarks, economic problems because of the Missouri. But enroutCthey-met ,. decrease in equity and farm values. nan from Hector who convinced A' them to eturn "'Gc jq3up frd'id1ry," Johnson said. i a n i ferences e sa Johnon aid.andrevenue 'ihhiing allows these Johnson, who met with people in differences to be mediated." Cokato on Thursday, carried on the Johnson said he isnot against a family tradition and is still farming balanced budget, but would have in Hector. And it was the farm voted against the Gramm-Rudman crisis that got Johnson involved in bill. "It's a blunt instrument," he politics-first as a Republican who said, "and We need precision in supported and campaigned for Rep. making cuts. The fact that 45 per- Vin Weber, and now as his cent of the programs are off limits Democratic opponent ,for the Con-, ispotentially unfair." He express- gressional seat. ed particular concern over the loss "I grew up as a Roosevelt of grants under thebill. "I have a Democrat," Johnson said, "but dur- feeling that people are willing to ing the 1960s I grew disillusioned cope with change as long as they and became an Independent." get a fair deal," he added, "but I Recruited by the Republicans in also have a feeling people are suf- 1982, he became a party activist, fering a great deal. primarily because of his deep con- "I'm concerned about all these cern over the decline in family things and a lot more," Johnson farms and on rural main streets, 'said. "I'm concerned about the Johnson said. )schools in the second district and His frustration with Republican the loss of commitment to ex- farm policies, the escalation of the cellence in education." He is also national debt, increased military concerned over the loss of people spending, growing trade problems, 'from the district. 'he declining tax and the loss of American jobs led. base and loss of people has hurt Johnson back to the Democratic schools, churches and businesses on party. Main Street, Johnson said, "This is "I had a feeling a way of life was a watershed race that both parties passing us by," Johnson said. "Our are watching carefully," he added. differences grew until I was com- "It will show whether rural politics pletely out of step with them.' mst take a new direction or not." This weekend, both Democrats and Republicans Republicans feel so threatened by Johnson that they will be gathering in Willmar for their Second District have to direct attention to what they deem are his Conventions. Leading up to the meeting, each party's shortcomings as a former Republican rather than at frontrunner to represent the district in Congress has Weber's qualities. In other years, Weber - and his District needs been busy with behind-the-scenes and not-so-behind- supporters - have concentrated on having him run the-scenes activity. on his record. Other candidates received attention, DFL hopeful Dave Johnson probably was the big- but not much. attention of gest benefactor by publicity promoted by Second As pollsters have indicated, the Second District District Republicans. IRs conducted several press con- race this year is one to watch. The farm economy, and ferences and distributed a letter chastizing Johnson Weber's reputation as being more interested in ad- its candidates for his recent switch from Republicanism to embrac- dressing global issues than in district .matters, could ing the Democratic Party. Labeling Johnson an "op- work against him. As a Republican, he'll be targeted portunist" as if the word were spelled with four let- by Democrats who will lay the blame for the ters, the letter charges that Johnson misrepresented economic havoc in rural Armerica at his and his col- himself and his views and is trying to take advantage leagues feet. Inside of Second District residents. A political strategist in Washington said Weber has The Hutchinson Leader received a copy of the let- to forego his interest in non-Second District issues and News ter Monday through the state l-R office, accompanied focus on the local economy. The congressman has to .bviC* vfeM by a news release quoting party chair Leon Oistad, go home more often and meet the folks, if he's to con- who echoes the letter's claims. The letter appears on tinue to represent the district, the political advisor this page. said. Apparently, other newspapers were far ahead of the And Weber is working on the perceptions of his Leader on the party's mailing list because a letter of constituents. A couple of weeks ago, his office mailed response already has been published in Willmar's a newsletter showing Weber meeting with farmers and West Central Tribune. The writer, a Willmar resident, telling of his efforts to aid the rural economy. The turns the tables on the Republicans and labels Weber -Johnny-come-lately attention indicates he's feeling an opportunist. He points to more than $14,000 that's the pressure. been raised to support Johnson's campaign, much To his credit, Weber has paid attention to the district. But his Washington agenda isn't home-based. Hutchinson Leader, coming from persons who in the past considered Second District residents, faced with foreclosures on April 29,1986 themselves Republicans. The anti-Johnson publicity kick initiated by the family farms and failures of small-town businesses, Republicans tends to support Johnson's contention aren't entirely happy with a congressman who's more that Weber's DoularitV is slipping. Apparently, the, well-known for his interest in foreign policy

Johnson here 'pressing flesh' in his campaign for congress

By Marcia Heiling Minnesota second congressional district candidate Dave Johnson of Hector was in Redwood Falls Tuesday, and his campaign involves putting on a lot of miles. "It's time for pressing the flesh and getting acquainted with the public," he said. "We are going to go up and down the street meeting the merchants and talking to people on the sidewalk." Johnson, a third generation farmer, said the farm and small business problems will be the primary issue of his campaign. "My grandpa and dad built up a good way of life for us and I'm not going to be the generation that allows that to go to pot. The way of life we en- joy is threatened under Reaganomics," he said. Johnson is a former Republican and was a delegate to the Republican national convention in 1984. He said he was driven to such levels of frustration by the Republican farm policy that he changed parties in February of this year. "Some things that led to the party switch were failed promises of the administration to balance the budget by 1983 or 1984, and we've only seen the deficit get larger," Johnson said. " We saw tremendous cuts in the program and an unbelievable military budget built up." He was endorsed by the second district DFL, the state AFL-CIO and the Minnesota congressional delegation. Johnson, 53, has lived in Hector most of his life. He graduated from the University of Minnesota ag school and returned to Renville Coun- ty, where he farms 1,600 acres. He and his wife of 28 years, Miriam, have four children. He was instrumental in putting together the Ren- ville sugar beet plant and organized MN. F.A.I.R. to halt dumping of hazardous waste on prime Minnesota farmland. Johnson is also ac- tive in his community and church. Johnson said his decision to run for congress came about because he thought the voters deseive an alternative to the incumbent, with no other political concerns, and someone who is concerned about the people of this district. "We need a policy that encourages and preserves the family farm system." he said. "We have to put the safety net back under agriculture. Support prices have to be raised. We lt send a message and plop it right on the President's desk to let him know we have to have a new program." Johnson said he is planning to double-team the opposition. His wife is actively campaigning and some of his children will be helping as well. Redwood Gazette, May 15,1986 A-4 West Central Tribune, Minn.-Wednesday, May 21, 1986 q Opinions Editorial Politics of party switching

-The "we-they" mentality is nec- ing his third term as Republican essarily strong among political congressman. partisans. Candidates and their As it happens, Johnson was a Re- backers seem to develop an esprit publican until shortly before he en- de corps that helps keep the adren- tered the race. He even served as a alin pumping till election day and delegate to the 1984 Republican Na- then - for those who win - keeps tional Convention. It was at the them buoyed up to do the things convention, he now says, during the they promised during the cam- forging of the party platform, that! paign. he saw the futility of trying to work It is in the nature of politics for through the Reagan administration political camps to develop fierce to get a fair shake for the rurali loyalties: Our candidate is the economy. "good guy"; their candidate, our So Johnson switched parties, and opponent, wears the black hat. from the hue and cry arising from All of this is probably good. It is the district Republicans you'd the way our human instincts oper- think he had defected to the KGB ate in a political process that has instead of to the Democratic party long served us well as a nation. - and denounced motherhood and But sometimes political parti- apple pie at the same time. sans can get too wrapped up in loy- We don't believe most voters see alties, forgetting that we citizen- a party label as something one has voters don't necessarily share their to die with - or for. President Rea- belief that all the truth and honor is gan switched parties many years on one side of the political fence. ago. Mike Menning, Republican Nor do we always care about the la- candidate for Minnesota governor, bels they wear. We just want good did so more recently. people in office who share our Party affiliation is a means to an views on what needs to be done. end, not an end in itself. When this fact is accepted by Dave Johnson's Wherever fierce loyalties exist, opponents, the name calling can there is an accompanying strong end and campaigning on the issues drive to punish severely any defec- can begin. tors from the "good fight." This ap- A candidate who has spent two pears to be what's happening in the terms in Congress should have race for Congress from the Second some accomplishments to boast District, where Dave Johnson, a about. He ought to have more to farmer from Hector, is taking on say than "My opponent is a party U.S. Rep. Vin Weber, who is seek- switcher."

Paid by the Dave Johnson for Congress Committee, P.O. Box 815, Willmar, Minnesota 56201 Telephone: (612) 235-5689 i r1"

BIOGRAPHY

David L. Johnson RR 1 Box 8 Hector, MN 55342 612/848-2818

Borns November 15, 1932 Wife: Miriam Johnson Children: Allison, Blair, Haley, Darris

Professional Experience

Owner-Operator of Rovid Farms, 1957 to present As the third generation of the Johnson family to farm in Renville County near Hector, David Johnson has withessed the growth and change in agriculture. Modern farming has brought him into contact with all aspects of his profes- sion, from soil, financial, and labor management to con- servation and policy advocacy, as he guided the growth of his father's farm to its present acreage.

Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, 1968-1978 The American Crystal Beet processing plant in Chaska closed in 1970. As a key boardmember, Johnson planned, promoted, designed, and facilitated the $60 :aillion beet processing plant located in Renville. He negotiated the financing of the venture, including $18 million of Co-op ContrF.ctor disputes and served as the first plant Certi- fication Officer and coordinator of the first beet cam- paign. Johnson sold his shares in the SMBSC to concentrate his farming operation. The Co-op plant is a thriving business today.

MN F.A.I.R. (Minnesota Future Agricultural Interests Recognized) . 1981-83 The Minnesota Legislature enacted a Hazardous Waste Act in 1980. Among the potential sites designated for trench- type waste disposal were locations in Renville and Sibley counties. Under David Johnson's leadership 1500 members raised $175,000 to collect and prepare materials for a scientific data base refuting the selection of the Renville and Sibley sites. In late 1982 the Minnesota 'Pollution Control Agency and the Waste Management Board eliminated the sites. MN F.A.I. R. continues to function today in the same manner for which it was conceived.

Personalized Marketing Service, 1983 to present Johnson serves as chairman and assisted in the promo- tion and development of this farm marketing advisory service. PMS seeks to provide a comprehensive, one-on- one marketing improvement opportunity for farmer pricing techniques. .o -6

Personal and Church Data

National Director, Vice President 1974-75 National Director. Secretary 1984-85 Trustee of Oregon Bible College, 1983-85 Treasurer, Oregon Bible College Foundation, 1983 to present

Awards

Future Farmers of America, Honorary Chapter Farmer University of Minnesota Associates 1000 Hutchinson AVTI, Outstanding Contribution to Vo-Tech Edu- cation in Minnesota Church of God General Conference, Outstanding Service "Who Will Survive in '85", Town and Country Symposium on the future of Rural America

Education

Hector Public High School University of Minnesota Farm School d ANNOUNCEMENT TEXT

Last week, I spoke to a crowd of friends and well-wishers at my farm in Hector. It is a farm where three generations of Johnsons have labored to create a way of life. My family and I have made the farm our home for 28 years. It is on that rich Minnesota land where the Johnson family has commited its energies, where I walked out to work each morning and taught my children about the good life of farming. We have made many dreams a reality here in Minnesota. The land and its people have been good to us. From the soil springs bur involvement with the town and church community. Here in Minnesota is where the Johnson roots are. 4 Our family is fortunate that-we have been able to grow. But, many who have chosen farming during the last decade have not been so fortunate. It is for this reason I stand before you today. A great depression is gripping our land. A financial crisis is tearing at our farms and our rural people. Our way of life is being extinguished under the yoke of the Republican farm policy that has run amok. Washington has turned its back on us. They preached the pro-family line while destroying the family farm. Many families are driven to despair. One hundred year family farms are being fore- closed on. The families are being driven from the land. Under the political gospel of the free market, the destruction of one-half of our farms and rural communities is imminent. The final insult is 20% cuts in grain supports with a gun called Gramm-Rudman aimed at each farmer. In Renville County, the loss of equity exceeds 70% of 1980 or an excess of one billion dollars. We rural people are told this is necessary to become more competitive. This is an American tragedy, a total falsehood, and disastrous to those of us who care about the future. We farm people have become the Administration's whipping boy. Our destitution is the result of the Republican policy. I shall not support a party which endorses such an agricultural policy and knowingly has abandoned the family farmer. I shall not be a part to that process. This day, I declare before you, that I am a DFLer. The DFL party believes in meeting competition on equal terms, which will result in higher grain prices and prosperous family farms. Democrats believe in selling our grain abroad, not selling out our farmers here at home. With fiscal responsibility and a positive farm policy we shall reverse the damage caused by the Republican party. It is time to stop the economic war against the common markets and South America with farmers as the butt end of the lower grain support policy. This treatment by the Republican party is alien to us in rural America who have labored:to support this nation. As a fArma-atQf. 8 years, I know the damage that is being done. I believe new leadership is desperately needed in Minnesota's Second Congressional District. Therefore, I shall lay down my plow and planter and seek the DFL endorsement for Congress from the Second District. This decision comes after trying very hard to change the Republican concept of ever lower price supports and lower farm income. My efforts were fruitless. This Administration's act of lowering price suppo-ts 20% proves the callous dis- regard it has towards rural America. This same kind of performance is readily evident in the record of my opponent. During his tenure, he has failed to build a record of support for our district and for rural people. My opponent has failed to offer leadership through two farm bills, passed without any amendments or constructive input on his part. My opponent does not sit on the Agriculture Committee so our voice is not heard there, nor is it heard on the floor of the House. His lack of action speaks for itself. During his first and second terms, Weber was the Administration's shadow. In the last tweleve months, he spoke only nine times on the agricultural crisis, and most of that occured in the closing weeks of the session. In the first nine months of Congress he spoke or addressed the issue of the farm crisis only three times. As rural Minnesota is being torn limb from limb, our congressman / --.-- A --

sits virtually silent. The misery caused by foreclosures and bankrupcy makes it impossible for us to turn our heads. My opponent says he has the President's ear, but he does not speak. He is consumed by a rigid ideology and has left the District for national and international concerns. He has forgotten the people of this Dis- trict. During the crisis, he was traveling in Nicaragua instead of seeking sup- port from Congress. It is past time our voices were heard. It is time for us in the Second District to be delivered from our Congressman's inattention. It is time .we had a Congressman who puts principle above politics. The farm misery index is at the highest level ever in our District. 15% interest rate plus 31% deflation equals a 46% misery index. Obviously, there are other issues which are of great concern and must be addressed and on which, positions will differ bonsiderably from my opponent. The current military build-up must be evaluated. America has fallen into the trap President Eisenhower warned us about 30 years ago: the military- industrial complex is driving our economy. We are paying $7,000 for coffee pots and $9,000 for Allen wrenches. It is time for us to stop this wasteful spending. It is time we answered the questions: what is a strong defense and what is a wasteful defense? Are we for the MX silo or the grain silos? America must make a greater commitment to policies which preserve American jobs and basic industries. An assessment of what the free world owes America for. forty years of aid is long overdue. As an American farmer who has lived here all my life, I believe in the American dream. We must rid ourselves of despair and desperation and return hope and honor to our efforts. I bring to the voters of the District a clear choice. A referendum on sen- ding a pure politician to Washington versus a seasoned man for this tough season.

Dave Johnson tion in poll ascies of Reaganhealthy and the Republic- sees his posi "The independent vote in the Johnson "ReaganomiCs Dis-has KROHN those polled recognize Johnson's and the IRs lost failedans sayingmiserably in the 2nd By TIM name. Johnson was a foirmer Ill 2nd isto increasing the independents than the IreePress Regional Editor more trict.'' activist who switched to the DFL "I MANKATO - Even though Democrats (lid," Johnson said. recent party in January to iun against the people will Johnson said Weber's Republican Congressman Vin Weber. think it shows that a trade bill which set the man, not the vote against Weber received a 68 percent ap- "b think it's a modern miracle be electing protection from foreign poll his imp~ortsup some was an example of proval rating in a recent to come firom zero in January to lloh.nsonJ said he wyill spend the to the damn-ag- challenger Dave Johnson I Weber's dedication DFL 44 percent [ name recognition remainder of his campaign giving Iistration policy of free says the poll shows promise for during an in- voters, a clear ing adin now," said Johnson those independent tradle at any cost. "We've become his bid to unseat the 2nd District Monday. -Forty-four' of how and why he is terview definition I incumbent. is patsy in a pick-pocket'- the versus an incumbent Weber. worlda free offtrade protectfions. The poll, taken in May by excellent."percent differentJohnson's from campaign has tried to and Tribune, Minneapolis Star promising said the free trade at- of the 302 EVEN MORE that tie Webei to the unpopularta titudeJohnson oft the Reagan administra- shows that 68 percent Johnson said, is the tinding policies of' President Reagan and tens of polled like the job the either tion costs the country people independents outnumber portray Weber as a man morie a year. le said thied-ter congressman is doing Republicans- in the conserva- thousands of jobs a Democrats or conceirned for forming stuck with the president's in Washington. The poll has district. for the nation than Weber percent southwestern Minnesota tive ideology 1rade policy even though 59 Re- margin of error of six Of those polled, 29 percent identi- for the struggling farmers in his either way. as Repubicans, 30 distiict. broke from the presi- also showed that 97 fied themselves publicans The poll as Democrats and 41 JOHNSON RAPPED the poli- for the trade bill. of the people recognize percent dent to vote percent: percent as independents. Weber's name while 44 percent of IAC Ako 10-fc, Barr .ns,

editorlPublisher of Many , Corners and host of IableaTV'e s'- Talk to Tow City. was laq-8s0D - inDbr on he bka S' f Weber asedaninerviqwiig. 41 seeks t~ krepmsi-ble awmn Asw he was~th, bmervtv stopW -e- cut -f

Omial Tribune, Mlflfl Wnda Obry 2 1I subiI;~ Them - c

&e innlm wm heaj i vs- continued fro~m Page A-1 fuld tola Fraiclbran; lww o re -nd fr current Gramm- effect of their decision tuntil the one guy that can make it or break "every farm- Supreme Court can reiew it, 4 and that's (House Speaker) Tip ~ifig&V red uclon in whilcw meAns tlt Mati ett 0 Neill. Inr hot sue what'l hap- and he'll se willtill take effeegg pen4'. . compnion mc ~i~ie ic owo the cod OIn the loan rgte.* Undg the resolution seI' Weber has written to members making the ciits bWeber Cohgress able of Miiesotais Congressional del- 6uld edo "hat eand hs receiv Presidental- legnbji buuli ib Lkde Hoid was cut sholt after I Mel- Able rep . the adme yom4 trk epubicas in asid a1 Haitin anming next t sday. '' ymens to d Io ml& 'an fton rep, e es-o otefir dencucingondL~~s ~meundisra large sign hlCb bed abf on hobby- p st farm states, Christenson said.. ~q~tn~adpoldm. ~-' ~~rea"Bcareo~igfrd di 'fbit-VOW. 14 w ~~bmg~a1 W.eAwm ' ~h6IE?£ ~A ~j*W A A-4 West Central Tribune, Minn.-Wednesday, May 21, 1986 pinicp Editorial Politics of party switching

-The "we-they" mentality is nec- ing his third term as Republican essarily strong among political congressman. * partisans. Candidates and their As it happens, Johnson was a Re- backers seem to develop an esprit publican until shortly before he en- de corps that helps keep the adren- tered the race. He even served as a alin pumping till election day and delegate to the 1984 Republican Na- then - for those who win - keeps tional Convention. It was at the them buoyed up to do the things convention, he now says, during the they promised during the cam- forging of the party platform, that paign. he saw the futility of trying to work It is in the nature of politics for through the Reagan administration political camps to develop fierce to get a fair shake for the rural loyalties: Our candidate is the economy. "good guy"; their candidate, our So Johnson switched parties, and opponent, wears the black hat. from. the hue and cry arising from All of this is probably good. It is the district Republicans you'd tpe way our human instincts oper- think he had defected to the KGB; ate in a political process that has instead of to the Democratic party long served us well as a nation. - and denounced motherhood and But sometimes political parti- apple pie at the same time. sans can get too wrapped up in loy- We don't believe most voters see alties, forgetting that we citizen- a party label as something one has voters don't necessarily share their to die with - or for. President Rea- belief that all the truth and honor is gan switched parties many years on one side of the political fence. ago. Mike Menning, Republican Nor do we always care about the la- candidate for Minnesota governor, bels they wear. We just want good did so more recently. people in office who share our Party affiliation is a means to an views on what needs to be done. end, not an end in itself. When this fact is accepted by Dave Johnson's Wherever fierce loyalties exist, opponents, the name calling can there is an accompanying strong end and campaigning on the issues drive to punish severely any defec- can begin. tors from the "good fight." This ap- A candidate who has spent two pears to be what's happening in the terms in Congress should have race for Congress from the Second some accomplishments to boast District, where Dave Johnson, a about. He ought to have more to farmer from Hector, is taking on say than "My opponent is a party U.S. Rep. Vin Weber, who is seek- switcher."

Paid by the Dave Johnson for Congress Committee, P.O. Box 815, Willmar, Minnesota 56201 Telephone: (612) 235-5689 This weekend, both Democrats and Republicans Republicans feel so threatened by Johnson that they will be gathering in Willmar for their Second District have to direct attention to what they deem are his Conventions. Leading up to the meeting, each party's shortcomings as a former Republican rather than at frontrunner to represent the district in Congress has Weber's qualities. In other years, Weber - and his District needs been busy with behind-the-scenes and not-so-behind- supporters - have concentrated on having him run the-scenes activity. on his record. Other candidates received attention, DFL hopeful Dave Johnson probably was the big- but not much. attention of gest benefactor by publicity. promoted by Second As pollsters have indicated, the Second District District Republicans. IRs conducted several press con- race this year is one to watch. The farm economy, and ferences and distributed a letter chastizing Johnson Weber's reputation as being more interested in ad- its candidates for his recent switch from Republicanism to embrac- dressing global issues than in district matters, could ing the Democratic Party. Labeling Johnson an "op- work against him. As a Republican, he'll be targeted portunist" as if the word were spelled with four let- by Democrats who will lay the blame for the ters, the letter charges that Johnson misrepresented economic havoc in rural America at his and his col- himself and his views and is trying to take advantage leagues feet. Inside of Second District residents. A political strategist in Washington said Weber has The Hutchinson Leader received a copy of the let- to forego his interest in non-Second District issues and News ter Monday through the state l-R office, accompanied focus on the local economy. The congressman has to JoliCtyeAnen" by a news release quoting party chair Leon Oistad, go home more often and meet the folks, if he's to con- who echoes the letter's claims. The letter appears on tinue to represent the district, the political advisor this page. said. Apparently, other newspapers were far ahead of the And Weber is working on the perceptions of his Leader on the party's mailing list because a letter of constituents. A couple of weeks ago, his office mailed response already has been published in Willmar's a newsletter *howing Weber meeting with farmers and West Central Tribune. The writer, a Willmar resident; telling of his efforts to aid the rural economy. The turns the tables on the Republicans and labels Weber Johnny-come-lately attention indicates he's feeling an opportunist. He points to more than $14,000 that's the pressure. been raised to support Johnson's campaign, much To his credit, Weber has paid attention to the district. But his Washington agenda isn't home-based. Hutchinson Leader, coming from persons who in the past considered Second District residents, faced with foreclosures on April 29,1986 themselves Republicans. The anti-johnson publicity kick initiated by the family farms and failures of small-town businesses, Republicans tends to support Johnson's contention; aren't entirely happy with a congressman who's more that Weber's popularity is slipping. Apparently, the1 well-known for his interest in foreign policy

Johnson here 'pressing flesh' in his campaign for congress

By Marcia Heiling Minnesota second congressional district candidate Dave Johnson of Hector was in Redwood Falls Tuesday, and his campaign involves putting on a lot of miles. "It's time for pressing the flesh and getting acquainted with the public," he said. "We are going to go up and down the street meeting the merchants and talking to people on the sidewalk." Johnson, a third generation farmer, said the farm and small business problems will be the primary issue of his campaign. "My grandpa and dad built up a good way of life for us and I'm not going to be the generation that allows that to go to pot. The way of life we en- joy is threatened under Reaganomics," he said. Johnson is a former Republican and was a delegate to the Republican national convention in 1984. He said he was driven to such levels of frustration by the Republican farm policy that he changed parties in February of this year. "Some things that led to the party switch were failed promises of the administration to balance the budget by 1983 or 1984, and we've only seen the deficit get larger," Johnson said. " We saw tremendous cuts in the program and an unbelievable military budget built up." He was endorsed by the second district DFL, the state AFL-CIO and the Minnesota congressional delegation. Johnson, 53, has lived in Hector most of his life. He graduated from the University of Minnesota ag school and returned to Renville Coun- ty, where he farms 1,600 acres. He and his wife of 28 years, Miriam, have four children. He was instrumental in putting together the Ren- ville sugar beet plant and organized MN. F.A.I.R. to halt dumping of hazardous waste on prime Minnesota farmland. Johnson is also ac- tive in his community and church. Johnson said his decision to run for congress came about because he thought the voters deseive an alternative to the incumbent, with no other political concerns, and someone who is concerned about the people of this district. "We need a policy that encourages and preserves the family farm system," he said. "We have to put the safety net back under agriculture. Support prices have to be raised. We1l send a message and plop it right on the President's desk to let him know we have to have a new program." Johnson said he is planning to double-team the opposition. His wife is actively campaigning and some of his children will be helping as well. Redwood Gazette, May 15,1986 Candidate Dave Johnson visits Osakis

OMvJaiua, rid- OW for Q1ngi -s, vialfd Ow"id las Frlsy. Dave Johnson, candidate for Con- He pointed out the importance of gress, visited Osakis last Friday on a transportation, and noted how the tour through the northern part of the railroad and the construction of 2nd Congressional District. The 2nd Interstate 94 have affected the Congressional District includes over community. He noticed the mill and 30 counties, stretching from Alex- the creamery, and the role such andria to Morris to Mankato. important businesses have played in Mr. Johnson found Osakis to be a farming community. very similar to other towns in the "You know, people can adjust to district, with one major exception. change and Osakis is an example of "The 2nd District is one of the most that. But government must be agricultural districts in the United responsible - it can't just decide to States," said Mr. Johnson, "and change policies overnight and throw many small towns are experiencing peoples' lives into turmoil. People difficulties caused by low farm have the right to expect - to demand - prices. However, Osakis is fortunate that government be a responsible that it has tourism - many com- partner. Farmers aren't asking for munities in southwestern Minnesota handouts, but for fair prices and rely solely on agriculture." programs that can be planned 'Mr. Johnson pointed out that just around and relied upon. Businesses as grocers, car dealers, cafe owners, don't expect handouts, but it isn't or other businesses couldn't operate fair that some of the biggest selling their products at prices below corporations pay no taxes. Senior cost, neither can farmers. "The Citizens don't expect handouts, but policies of the Reagan administration it is only fair that medical and have set farm prices below the cost hospital costs remain affordable." of production, and until those prices In traveling about the district, Mr. reflect a fair return, our farm Johnson has found a great range of economy will not recover. And our opinions regarding government poli- towns won't prosper," commented cies. "Sone people are really Mr. Johnson. hopping mad - but others are almost Osakis Review apathetic, resigned to let someone Mr. Johnson noted how Osakis 5-18-86 shows the effects of changing times. else control their destiny. To me, government should be the hope of the people. Government has the power to revitalize our area and to shape our f ut ure. " "A country as great as ours, that can build the greatest military machine ever seen, that can help rebuild Europe and Japan, that can send a man to the moon, can help solve the problems of rural America. However, just as it took a resolved, committed American in the past, it will take a resolved, committed American in the future. And it will take a nation and a government that cares." CqjNfRESSIONAL FOCUS/RICHARD E. COHEN S His recent conversion and Republican assertions that a year T budigeshe Houses marked otherwise a notable uneventful transition debate for Rep. on the Vin fiscal Weber 1987 of ago he actively sought the Republican endorsement for state Minnesota, a leader of the group of junior Republicans who had treasurer could provide ammunition for attacks on Johnson's been pushing their party toward greater conservatism and credibility. When he ran for convention delegate in 1984, for partisan confrontation. example, he said he was "committed to the principles of The only Budget Committee member who broke party ranks Republican conservatism" and praised Reagan's "courageous on the panel's budget package. Weber supported the plan positions." because, as he told the House. chairman William H. Gray III of Democrats hope to make Weber the victim of voters' malaise. Pennsylvania and other Democrats "dealt most fairly with me A March poll for Johnson of 400 likely district voters by throughout the process and because their budget is not all that Hickman-Maslin Research showed 42 per cent agreeing that a bad in my view." vote against Weber was the best way to send the Reagan This conventional log-rolling approach came from the law- Administration and the Republican Party a message about maker who was primarily re- problems in the farm economy: sponsible for establishing the ) 140 per cent said that Weber had House's hell-raising Conserva- Local [L1/11ics Ldone a good job and deserved tive Opportunity Society reelection. (COS) in 1983 and who said a Weber. saying that voters do year later: "We're in a period not oust an incumbent without ripe for realignment if the pub- cause and that Democrats have lic is convinced that the (Re- failed to offer a credible alter- publican] Party is showing the native farm policy, nevertheless way.. . . To do that. we'll have showed some lack of confidence to be positioned properly, with a about his prospects. "The odds forward-looking agenda to show are I will win," he said, but "it the differences between the two can be very close" if Johnson. parties." whose 1.500-acre farm has Weber conceded during a re- made him a millionaire, con- cent interview that his attitude tributes his own money to the had changed. He attributed it race-a step. Weber said, that to the perilous farm economy . could open him to criticism. that has devastated his rural Rep. Vin W r, R-Minn. Weber will spend more than southwest Minnesota district. S600,000 and already has wh!h has more farmers than any other district in the nation, raised half that amount. he said, Johnson has a 5450.000 budget ac ording to the National Republican Congressional Commit- but has raised about $75.000. tee. From a legislative perspective. Weber's abandonment of "The district is in a depression. with a deep sense of pessi- COS activities affirms the adage of House Speaker Thomas P mism about the future." Weber said. "I've focused my work O'Neill Jr.. D-Mass.. that "all politics is local." Now that the almost exclusively the past two years on farm issues and haven't heat is on him. Weber has turned from partisan bomb throwing had much time for the COS. Anyone who has had a catastrophe to securing a section in the budget resolution stating the sense of strike his district has to tend to that." He has harshly criticized Congress that the Agriculture Department's cooperative exten- Reagan Administration farm policies and has helped many local. sion service should be financed at a level sufficient to support farmers who faced bankruptcy or the drying up of credit to deal programs such as 4-H yolith development and home economics. with federal loan agencies. "It is kind of amazing what an opponent will do for one's Democrats cite another factor that they contend has forced voting pattern." said House Minority Leader Robert H. Michel. Weber to focus his attention on local matters. Retired 53-year- R-Ill.. when asked about Weber's budget vot:. "Vin has to do old farmer David Johnson, the endorsed Democratic candidate. what he has to do for his district. It's important for Members to is campaigning aggressively against Weber, and Democratic exercise their independent judgment so they will be back here." leaders view him as tailor-made for the race. In a recent briefing Like Sen. Charles E. Grassley of Iowa. the role model for on House races. Democratic Congressional Campaign Commit- many farm-state Republicans. Weber has sought to identify tee chairman Tony Coelho of California, who encouraged John- issues, in addition to agriculture. on which he disagrees with son to run, spotlighted his "good chance to win" the seat. Reagan. He has consistently opposed the President's civil rights Johnson's eagerness to challenge Weber with tough accusa- and environmental policies and was a leader of the band of tions stems from his switch to the Democratic Party. Only two House Republicans who attempted to force a tougher L.S. years ago, he served on Weber's farmers advisory committee position on apartheid in South Africa. and was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in But Johnson has stron2lv criticized Weber for his support of Dallas. But Johnson said that he grew disillusioned with Presi- aid to Nicaraguan contras, which Weber called "a moral dent Reagan's "minimalist government" and his unresponsive- obligation." And, unlike Grassley. he has been vocal in identify- ness to the farm crisis and with Weber's failure to help his ing with Reagan's economic priorities. (It is worth noting that constituents. notably with new farm legislation. "He's been a Reagan in 1984 won 57 per cent of the vote in Weber's district.) big-picture Congressman, who believes that the free market is a "For Vin to lose. things would have to go real bad." said a panacea." Johnson said. "His activities show a man unable to Republican observer. But Weber. who beat a Democratic in- W build coalitions necessary for the district that elected him to cumbent in 1980 because of the district's antipathy to President represent their needs." Carter. knows tha: he cannot entire!\ control his fate. O

1346 NATIONAL JOLRNAL 5. 31;86 West Central Tribune, Minn.-Monday, May 5, 1986

Willmar, Minnesota Monday, May 5, 1986 2nd District DFLers back Dave Johnson Johanson Continued from Page A-1 By STEVE GRAVELLE Staff Writer 'was the topic Saturday night when 6th District Rep. Gary WILLMAR - Dave Johnson, tSikorski addressed a preconven-. the Hector farmer who defected tion banquet. from the Republican Party to . Sikorski said Johnson will get challenge the incumbent for not only "a lot of support, but a lot whom he once worked, won a sol- of bankable help." He said Weber id congressional endorsement his staunch support of Rea- Sunday "and from 2nd District DFLers - gan will have to be put to the afternoon. test." Sikorski said Weber is a Johnson said he's won over dis- part of the Washington clique trict Democrats and is ready to "who think Massey Ferguson is a take on Rep. Vin Weber. jazz musicin." "The romance and the dancing Johnson met last week with na- are over," he said after winning tional Democratic leaders who the endorsement. "Now we get "promised maximum support," down to the real thing." -Sikorski said. That could mean up Johnson won the endorsement to $60,000 from the national cam- with about 75 percent of the 170 paign committee. Weber's cam- delegates' votes on the first bal- paign warchest is over S225,000. lot. Canby farmer James Stone "They're awash in money," had mounted a challenge to John- Sikorski said. He said Johnson's son, raising the issue of his party decision to switch parties "is the loyalty. but he conceded after the .American way." He pointed to size of Johnson's lead became evi- -former IR state Sen. Charlie dent. Berg, who last week gained the The convention then voted to DFL endorsement for his re-elec- make the endorsement unani- tion in state Senate District 11. mous. Johnson said the rejection of Re- Johnson said he was "enor- publican policies by rural Minne- mously pleased" by the solid sup- sotans is the start of a trend. port from DFL regulars. "I didn't "Our polling tells us there's a kow that we'd carry it with that major realignment going on out high a percentage." Johnson there." he said. "The prodigal son added. He said he'll "Lake a cou- has come home. You don't know pIe days to get in gear" for the how good it is to be a Democrat campaign. until you've been a Republican." Former Vice President Walter Tribune photo by MichOl Smith Mondale is scheduled to appear at a Johnson fundraiser Wednesday Minnesota Gov. Rudy Perpich speaks to the 2nd District Democratic-Former-Labor Party Sunday in in Minneapolis. Willmor. "The pieces are in place for a real hard contest." Johnson de- port of President Reagan's eco- The race has gained national at- cratic leaders have pledged sub- clared. Drawing on what prom- nomic and farm policies. tention both for Johnson's politi- stantial backing, and that support ises to be a major theme of the "I think he'll have to." Johnson cal past and as what some say campaign, he said Weber will predicted. "I don't think he'll will be a rural referendum on JOHNSON have to answer for his past sup- ave any choice." Reagan policies. National Demo- Continued on Page A-2 * .-.---. *.--.. -. -~,... -,--.-. ..- -

30A .Sun., Mar. 2, 1986 Minneapolis Star and Tribune Democrats aflutter over Webe 'nw challeng.r By Steve Berg Staff Correspondent O andcontritld,Minn. wh h kdfrWberHe has flown the Congsma around lastea_ DC the district in his Private plane and Democratic shdk rs rouhld ochatted about ceding Webr, are bubbling with qousl4ii- ver drag-out political brawl that may tell some day sh e r decide to David Johnsoille bll* much about the mood in the econom run for gover . s agan can who switched t lcll distressed rural Midwest. delegate to th Repubcan con- against Re, Via eso- ventioninDallas. ia's Secod Distrid. 'IrE there's e nature of Weber's sonesternMinnesota. district It is Now Johnson saa~ that was a Johnson w4 in Washingbal last among the most rural In America mistake; that he had felt In 1982 that week gretgmajor Dembrals and Its cornsoybeans economy has Reagan's farm policies were harm- gea g up f what may been devastated, causing bitter re ful. I oneof a sin g Ucdaton of Reagan's farm policies. races - one I e attact- - Weber and hle ssoclited have al- ing nationaV(Itten "tere's h Weber. He is one of ready b .gun Ohsn a turn. most fervently conserva- coat and fdintWhd repeat. He's made "rettybig sp 0ad : m , and his views over edly u rp,.for gover. Randy Hum4, a consultat1 D years in tht House have been nor so be hid House seat. ocratic canoting the Afocatd closely with Reagan'. He They personal New York, ismes ra 8 d favored Reagan's positiot oi 64 per. wealth tplane, photo on Johnson't visit aftee ral centfof his votes last year,altthough condo in Pl and travels arounda previous mentions in the Wablagon of late he has tried to run, #W and the world. Post. fast away from the president's farm positions. "We're takin verye o y" "I'm very b h o theg ad said a Weber disato: V d't Dave Bleglng, chief aidesMinie At 33, he has become a national know how; much of his persoa for., apolls congressman M . leader among young Republicans tune he'll spend on the campaign." "When I met him I beca1S*n- dedicated to using conservative Ide- stapt convert. He's the Ca* ology to push the party tion of thefarm toward ma- Johnson denli. op i "My issue." jority statvs. Although he is regarded roots ar* as h&farm pe0p4" he said. on Ifhs'party's brigtest and, " Mo itmaet to PiytwAr corn- -ndeed, there. seemns a itryc tst munity exoi Qy'luWVto ura around the rough-hefa t he Spends too much lIatnl Republican Party. the son. The spectacle of a RepuLI" e4 on national political theory a e his ot ough on local practicality, Johnson dw disric bes~wltt~b~ls~ peanng armIssep.but sai Oki 14 C d hurt cusag tot ,.him son's challetpfhas all the Enter Johnson. At 53, he Is ahighly trmers. Ingredledts t knockdown, successful farmer from dector, "I started'foM scratch in 1957. I'm proud of Wbat I've done as, tmer. But I'malso 43 percent I was in 1980. The -et hasgo up In Republican blue smoke."

Capitol C..uedfom. page probably will lavis rhfoey, too. Par- "As a courtesy he won't go to Ver- * ty Insiders say there's little doubt mont to campaign against his col- that Johnson will be a "priority can- league," said Durenberger's top aide, didate." Doug Kelley. But advice isn't out of bounds, Kelley said, particularly be- Pledge may have hit snag cause Leahy has been using the com- Remember Sen. Dave Durebirger's mittee for polItical advantage back pledge to remove politics from the home. inelgne committe it may nave,, h nt cer ena&.Keeping the press informed Two awards for press release-of-the- Durenberger, chairia of the sup- month: To Weber, who complained posey nonpartisan committee had bitterly about the Impact of the lunch with Vermobt's former Rdpub Gri!uladffr budget cuts on lican governor, Richard Snelling,. farirs afthf n tor the cuts, Wednesday. Sniling was in town "Thee cuts will te $68 Imillion out shopping ,for support for, hii' run of the 'pockets .6f Minnesota's farm- against incumbept Democrat. Pat ers," he declared. Leahy, vice chairman o the suppos- Ad o ]e.' Walter Jones,. D-N.C., edly nonpartisan dom16itt4e-Chan- I ces are he'll get Dtirenterr's help. who Vre; an. item headlined, "Am cdd- b9ttosps to darry Japa- Snelling was seeking advice 'on "the 'esi ars carry American. bot- intelligence angle," according to one totl I It was about U.S. merchant Durenberger aide. Durenberger ships"being selected' to carry Japa- no pledges to do. commercials . nese cars, in which, eventually, made get the for Snelling or to make speeches at Americans would sit. You his rallies. Idea. It's never been this bad' farming WASHINGTON (UPI) - Minnesota Gov. Rudy pich Per- described his role simply, "My job is to let them know just how bad it is" in the Farm Bell and to ask congressmen Monday to revamp federal farm policy. "It's never been this bad. You can just feel rate It deterlo- the last two, three, months," Porpich told report- crs aitrer a breakfast meeting with four of con8ressmen. the state's "What we're asking for is some time." Perpich supports a proposal by Sen.-Tom Harkin, Iowa, to let D- farmers vote If they want to Increase gov- ernment supports in exchange for mandatory how limits on much they produce. He said that is a better than choice the version now preferred by the House, would continue which curent programs and try to boost exports. "More of the same won't work," said Perpich. Two of the conagressmaen who met with Perpich, e Reps. Vin Weber, R-Minn., and Timothy Minn., Penny, D- said they would not vote for the unless House bill it is altered. Both acknowledged it Is likely bill will pass the and that it is unlikely the Harkin lan- guage will be added. The House rejected a similar pro- posal from Rep. Berkley Bedell, D-lowa. If we end up with the bill as it now stands, I can't support It." Penny. ~-worse." said. "It just means things get "I Iully agree with the governor ... that quo bill the status means a disaster for our.part of the said Weber, country," who said he would vote for the Alexander plan despite disliking production controls. Weber also said Reagan's. farm lar In the Midwest. policies are unpopu- "Any Republican from a rural district irsthe upper Midwest that thinks the Reagan administration Is pop- ular with farmers ought to bother to run just retire now and not for re-election and save themselves the expense of running a campaign," Weber-said. Perplch said Minnesota omy" state. is becoming a "two econ- The mietropoltan area around the Twin Cities and the relativelyr thriving southeastern Minnesota account part of for 118percent of state revenues, he said, which Indicates the rest of the fering. state Is suf-

Lo- 714 MINNESOTA

goal. Wil SECOND DISTRICT force in I The Peop If you divide Minnesota into quarters, the lower left quadrant, approximately, forms 67% man state's 2d congressional district. Most of this land is drained by the Minnesota River. In $37,300. eastern part of the district, the land is relatively green; it was once heavily forested, and is President verdant, especially in the hilly land near the river banks. This area was settled by German therans and Scandinavians, no-nonsense folk who farmed its land profitably. Farther w there were fewer trees and less rainfall. This is part of the vast grain-growing Great Plains Politically, the difference can be summed up thus: the eastern counties are Republican, Rep. Vir some cases very heavily Republican, a preference dating back to their first settlement; t western counties are politically volatile, swinging usually away from the party in power protest against any depression or threatened depression of the farm economy. The 2d district is represented in Congress by one of Minnesota's most distinctive aji successful young politicians, Vin Weber. He helped manage Senator Rudy Boschwitz8 successful campaign in 1978, at age 26; two years later, he ran for Congress in a seat held by Democrat for six years and won. In 1982 the Democratic redistricting plan placed much 6f Weber's old territory (the former 6th district) in the 2d district where another Republica congressman had his residence. Weber persuaded him to run in the Ist district (where he ulti-E mately lost), while Weber himself managed to win reelection solidly in a recession year in a district prone to farm revolts. In the more Republican year of 1984 Weber won easily, by al"' most a 2-1 margin. But Weber is not just an adroit politician; he has also emerged as one of the leadin strategists and thinkers of his party. With Newt Gingrich of Georgia, he leads the dozen or Group Republican congressmen who champion a Conservative Opportunity Society. Their greates impact has been in the so-called special orers periodafter the House's legislative busine198 has been done, in which they appear (and are seen by 250,000 cable TV viewers) and attack 1984 the Democrats; they have also commissioned thoughtful papers. Their movement is provoca tive, in both senses of the word: it harasses opponents and it stimulates thought. Weber, foNa example, on economic issues tends to be against government regulation and involvement, and 1984 on cultural issues usually favors endorsement of traditional values. But on foreign policy hk Liberal has opposed the Reagan administration on the MX missile, chemical warfare, and the Conseri AWACS sale to Saudi Arabia. With Gingrich and Ron Walker of Pennsylvania, he drafted 1983 in 1985 legislation to impose economic sanctions on South Africa if the government there did'; Liberal not abolish apartheid. He was the leader on the Science and Technology Committee of the ul-'. Conser timately successful fight to stop the Clinch River Breeder Reactor, which he opposed as a Key Vo waste of money and as a threat to the environment. He was one of the initiators of the House 1) Cap Republicans' letter against South Africa in late 1984. 2) Exte Weber, who joined the Budget Committee in 1985, operates as a conservative who is not 3) Esta bound by history, who is not obliged to defend all the customs of the past (like racial 4) Bar segregation) nor take the part of every traditional ally (like South Africa). At the same time, Electio he does not accept the liberals' view of history, either; he explicitly rejects the idea that every P 1984 g increase in government power or in accommodation with the Soviet Union is an improvement" of the status quo. He sees himself, and with some reason, as making the history of the future. 1984 p For a young man who a few years ago seemed indistinguishable from hundreds of other clever 1982 g young operatives for candidates of right or left, he has made measurable progress toward that MINNESOTA 715

goal. With a safe seat at home, in former DFL territory, he is likely to continue to be a major force in the House. The People Pop. 1980: 509,500, up 2.1% 1970-80. Households (1980): 74% family, 38% with children, .s the 67% married couples; 23.4% housing units rented; median monthly rent: $142; median house value: n the $37,300. Voting age pop. (1980): 363,087. s still Presidential Vote n Lu- 1984 Reagan (R) ...... 139,872 (57%) west, Mondale (D) ...... 105,227 (43%) lains. in, in Rep. Vin Weber (IR) t; the Elected 1980; b. July 24, 1952, Slayton; home, North Mankato; U. ,er in of MN, 1970-73; Roman Catholic; married (Jeanie). Career Press Secy./Researcher for U.S. Rep. Tom Hagedorn, and 1974-76; Co-publisher, The Murray County Herald, 1976-78; Boschwitz, 1978-80. witz's Campaign Mgr., Chief MN Aide, Sen. Rudy Iby a Offices 318 CHOB 20515, 202-225-2331. Also PO. Box 279, New 919 S. Ist St., Willmar 56201, 612-235- ch of Ulm 56073, 507-354-6400; 6820; and PO. Box 1214, Marshall 56258, 507-532-9611. lican of 13 R). Task Forces: Health; Human ulti- Committees Budget (11th Resources; State and Local Government. Small Business (6th of 17 r in a R). Subcommittee: Antitrust and Restraint of Trade Activities >y al- Affecting Small Business (Ranking Member). tding or so Group Ratings atest CFA LCV ACU NTU NSI COC ACA CSFC iness ADA ACLU COPE 1984 15 13 6 42 71 100 63 80 69 85 76 ttack 1983 15 - 6 17 86 83 75. - 84 82 76 voca- National Journal Ratings r, for Economic Social Foreign , and 1984 :y he Liberal 13% 20% 35% I the Conservative 86% 78% 64% ifted 1983 e did Liberal 21% 17% 37% ie ul- Conservative 79% 83% 63% as a Key Votes ouse 1) Cap Tax Cut AGN 5) OK School Pray FOR 9) Cancel MX Missile AGN 2) Extend SS Benefit AGN 6) Limit Abortions FOR 10) Halt Aid to Contras AGN s not 3) Estab Dom Content AGN 7) Approve ERA AGN 11) Incr Aid to El Sal FOR FOR 12) Supp.Nuclear Freeze AGN acial 4) Bar Imm Amnesty AGN 8) Pass Imm Reform ime, Election Results ,very 1984 general Vin Weber (IR)...... 153,308 (63%) ($312,957) ment Todd Lundquist (DFL) ...... 89,770 (37%) ($63,753) ture. 1984 primary Vin Weber (IR)...... 25,061 (100%) (54%) ($565,465) ever 1982 general Vin Weber (IR)...... 123,508 James W. (Jim) Nichols (DFL) ... 103,243 (45%) ($151,635) that H

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9Jj~ ll 10 SA4e& / ~6YN 76 I became a Democrat because of my frustration with Republican farm policy. I'm running for Congress because rural Minnesota can no longer withstand the policies of neglect... our farmers and small businesses are going under.

Our way of life is threatened. It's time to send a message to Washington now. 9 j

Dave Johnson needs your help to send the Minnesota message to Washington. Please call (612) 235-5689 or write: Dave Johnson, P.O. Box Paid by the Dave Johnson for Congress Committee, 815, Willmar, MN 56201 S-n7 Dolores Nelson, Treasurer, Willmar, MIN 56201 Dave Johnson: to protect our Minnesota way of life.

Dave Johnson is a family farmer in o Fight to stop billions of dollars in Minnesota's Second Congressional foreign aid... let's help rural District and a lifelong resident of America first. Hector, Minnesota. This University o Fight to prevent Minnesota from of Minnesota Ag School graduate has becoming the dumping ground for long been active in efforts to improve nuclear waste. Minnesota's agriculture economy. Dave and Miriam Johnson are third generation family farmers and have raisedfour children on their Dave Johnson organized MN Renville County farm. As a lifelong Minnesota F.A.I.R. to halt the dumping of farmer Dave Johnson will use his experience to hazardous waste on prime Minnesota strengthen the legislative voice of Minnesota's Second CongressionalDistrict. farmland and, as Second District Congressman, he will: Fight for Main Street, not Wall DAVEJOHNSONW Street. CONGRESS