This is the first in series of interviews with candidates vying to replace Gov. Tim Pawlenty in Minnesota. I am asking all declared candidates the same four questions.
Marty Seifert (R)
Office: Representative 21A; former House Minority Leader
Born: 1972, Springfield, Minnesota
Elected: 1996 (7th term)
Education: BA, political science, Southwest Minnesota State University; graduate work, Minnesota State University Mankato.
Occupation: Small-business owner, university admissions counselor (unpaid leave)
Committees: Energy Finance and Policy Division; Rules and Legislative Administration; Transportation and Transit Policy and Oversight Division
EXAMINER: Why are you running governor?
Marty Seifert: It's very simple: I want a great Minnesota for my children and all children to live, work and raise their families. Government is the largest employer in Minnesota and I want to downsize, right-size and economize government and get the private sector growing again.
E: As you travel the state, what do you hear from small business owners?
Seifert: Government is too big, too powerful, taking too much money and doesn't listen. The permit, licensing, fees, taxes, regulations and bureaucracy are out of control.
E: What are largest challenges small businesses face, and what can the State do to help?
Seifert: I think it's the changing economy, but the state government needs to get a pro-job viewpoint out at every level. We have taxes that are way too high and not competitive with our region or nation. Our welfare system is too large and that spending forces up taxes at all levels. As Governor, I will push for a major jobs bill: reforming and downsizing taxes, regulations, permits, fees, etc.
E: What would you do as governor to ensure the viability of Minnesota's small businesses?
Seifert: It's similar to #3 - create and economic environment to compete. Make sure our schools are accountable and graduating students ready to compete in the 21st century. I will push for Angel Investor credits to get many businesses the dollars to get started. Wisconsin has had some good success with this, at our expense. We need a moratorium on uncompetitive regulations, fees and taxes that punish our job providers. Also, I will work to recruit and retain businesses of all sizes as Governor.
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