I have recently separated from the military and now back here in Minnesota. As we look to the new year, 2010 promises to be an important year in deciding the political landscape for the next decade. A key gubernatorial race along with every state legislative seat up for grabs will determine not only major issues facing our state, but congressional and state legislaive redistricting will be debating in St. Paul. I look forward to working with many of you in the upcoming year to assist in electing like-minded, pragmatic moderate Republicans to office.

I had the opportunity to ask Minnesota Party Chair Tony Sutton a few questions about the role of moderates and progressives in the party along with his opinion on how to broaden the party's base. 

RLC-MN: Do you feel there is room for moderates & progressives in  the Republican Party of Minnesota?

I find myself often torn between wanting to work within the Party apparatus or to rebel as an outside critic of it. As tempting and self-righteous as working as an outsider may be, to truly create positive change, one must get involved in their local party structure.
As a moderate, I know the challenges involved in many local GOP precincts. Many of these precincts are run and dominated by hard core right-wing activists bent on advocating for a very narrow and exclusive party doctrine. It's not unusual to be shouted down or ignored for having dissenting views as well.

This past weekend the Minnesota GOP elected Tony Sutton the new chair of the Party. Michael Brodkorb was elected Deputy as well. Sutton previoulsy served as Secretary/Treasurer. Brodkorb, more famously know as heading up the blog minnesotademocratsexposed.com served as Communications Director for the Senate Republican Caucus.

My name is Pat Lobejko and I am the state captain of the Republican Leadership Council for the Great State of Minnesota. I live in Hastings and am currently in Afghanistan serving in the United States Navy. I'm excited to be part of this organization to promote Republican core principles of fiscal responsibility and personal freedoms.