Joe Staloch, DFL candidate for Minnesota House District 23A

My name is Joe Staloch and I’m running to represent district 23A in the Minnesota house this November. I want all Minnesotans to live better lives, to improve access and affordability of services, and to grow our rural communities.

 

I grew up on a family farm outside of Wells with my three siblings. I graduated from USC High School, earned a degree in geology from Winona State University, and spent ten years working for a company in St. Paul on public health and safety, natural resources, and national security projects.

 

Returning to greater Minnesota wasn’t my plan. Health and family issues led me to move back to Wells and eventually Albert Lea where my long-term partner Danielle and I now live with our five cats, three of them rescues. Moving back was the best decision for my health and my relationships. There’s less pressure to “keep up with the Joneses” and there’s a sense of community throughout the region. Some of this is economically driven, but I also credit schools, churches, and nonprofits in our communities for creating a sense of togetherness and belonging that is hard to replicate in the big city.

 

Moving back was the right decision for me, but I’ve been reminded that we face challenges that I believe are stifling opportunity and growth. When I moved back, I had a hard time finding a healthcare provider and I recently lost my father when he was unable to reach a hospital in time. While we continue to invest in healthcare, small town clinics close, hospitals cut back or eliminate services, and ambulances struggle with staffing and funding. It’s been less than a year since my father passed and I miss him dearly. My family is important to me and, although I'm not a father myself, I am an uncle. My sisters and brother have young and growing families and have been lucky to have our mother, who has always been willing and able to provide childcare when they’ve needed it. I’d like to go to work on behalf of working families and ensure that healthcare and childcare are given the attention and support they deserve.

 

I have an opponent in this race, a long time incumbent who’s a nice enough person, but is not doing enough to push back against the worst impulses of the base of her party and, with some votes, actively works against improving everyday Minnesotans' lives. So I ask you to look past the flag waving this election season, and support the party that is protecting your freedom and working in the interest of you and your family. I am a Democrat and I believe in freedom from hate and from fear, the freedom to vote, and the freedom to control our own bodies. I believe that fair wages, affordable services, and human rights are Minnesota values worth voting for.

 

Election day is Nov 5th. I'd be honored if you would vote for me to represent you in St. Paul.