The campaign for U.S. Senate here in Minnesota, until recently, has been distinguished mainly by negative attacks and counterattacks from incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman and candidate Al Franken. Lately they appear to be backing away from the mudslinging, but does that mark a permanent change? If either gets to Washington, will they really be the civil, independent voices for the kinds of change that this country needs? Or will they just hunker down in their respective partisan bunkers, lobbing political attacks at the other side?

This country faces major challenges in the next six years. We’ve lost the respect of many around the world, both friends and foes, as they witnessed the flawed decision-making that led us into Iraq and into the recent mess in the unregulated, far-from-transparent financial markets. Our budget deficit has mushroomed far beyond the ability of any us to even visualize: Exactly how much money is $12 trillion, anyway? How many future generations of Americans have we obligated to pay for our extravagant tax cuts and spending increases?

The best way for us in Minnesota to change how decisions are made in the Senate is to send a proven independent leader like Sen. Dean Barkley to Washington. On Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Albert Lea American Legion, from noon to 1:30, you have an opportunity to meet that leader in person, to ask your questions and get honest answers.

David Rask Behling

vice chairman

Freeborn County

Independence Party

Albert Lea