Small business is the backbone of our community. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses employ over half of the country’s workforce, and hire over 40 percent of the high-tech positions, including scientists and computer workers. In addition, it represents 52 percent of home-based businesses and a small percentage of franchises.

So how does this benefit Albert Lea? If Albert Lea would like to see growth and prosperity, it should continue to look first to the small businesses that call Albert Lea and Freeborn County home, and those political leaders that will support us.  I had the opportunity to give Randy Demmer a tour of my business and visit with him about the opportunities and challenges I face as a business owner. As a small business owner himself, he has the expertise and knowledge needed to help support business owners and employees in our community. He supports personal responsibility and job creation that makes sense. He will allow us to keep our voices and choices, instead of supporting government to make those decisions for us. His down-to-earth demeanor and caring personality is admirable.

Seriously, how many politicians do you know that can give out a hug in place of a handshake?  Randy Demmer has my vote for U.S. Congress this November.

Jena Thompson

Daisy Blue Naturals

Albert Lea