December 7, 2011

Dear Neighbors and Supporters:

Last night, I called Kari Dziedzic and congratulated her on her win in the SD59 DFL primary.  I am proud that we ran a positive campaign that focused on creating a better future for all children and bringing greater understanding of issues faced by underrepresented communities.  We stand with Kari and look forward to working with her as our next State Senator.

I am deeply proud of my campaign’s commitment and our successful efforts to engage first time voters and immigrants, who came in tremendous numbers to the polls on Tuesday.  We must work together to continue our collective commitment as a party to involving more people from all communities in political process.

I want to take this opportunity to thank each one of you who came out and voted and supported me!  Thanks to everyone who worked so hard, I know what you have given up and how hard you have been working. Although we lost the primary we ran a good campaign, and it was worth every minute.

I am running because I believe everyone deserves access to employment at a living wage, affordable health care, and high-quality education regardless of their ethnic background or economic status. I believe that all children deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential. I also believe that the rich need to pay their fair share.

I immigrated to Minneapolis twelve years ago and worked my way through college and into a rewarding career as an IT professional. Today I live in Northeast Minneapolis with my wife Farhiya Del, and our three beautiful children.

A serious opportunity gap has developed in our society, with some doing quite well and many others falling behind. I am committed to overcoming the divisive politics that is widening this gap even further, while giving the rich a free ride.

Together we can overcome all the odds. I am running to bring determined leadership to the Senate. My first-hand understanding of the issues faced by the under-represented communities will bring a seldom heard voice to St Paul.

I hope to get to know you as this campaign progresses. I ask for your support. I ask for your ideas. I ask for your vote.