On Tuesday, voters choose. The presidential race gets the most press, and this year’s spectacle has captured the nation’s attention like no other. Luckily, the presidential race is not the only race to be settled. In fact, there are many local races that may well have greater impact on the lives of people in southeast Minnesota, and one of those is the race for District Court judge in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District.

David McLeod, an attorney from Rochester, is up against the incumbent in this race. I don’t know the incumbent, Terrence M. Walters, but here is what I know about him: The press has reported that he was publicly reprimanded by the Board of Judicial Standards for allegedly failing to supervise a law clerk by approving inaccurate time sheets, refusing to let a defendant withdraw a plea, trying a defendant in absentia and being discourteous to a psychologist. As a result of some of these behaviors, the board ordered Walters to undergo anger management and find a mentor. He also had to write a letter of apology to the psychologist. This does not sound like a man I’d like judging me or anyone else for that matter. Notably, if Walters is elected by the people, he will have to retire because of his age before his term is up. If that happens, the governor will appoint a judge, and the people’s voice will not be heard. David McLeod is a better choice.

I’ve known David for the better part of 40 years, and here is what I know about him: He works hard and always has. He is dedicated to his profession, to Minnesota and to the region, having graduated from a Minnesota law school and practiced here in the public sector since passing the bar. He actively volunteers with local youth organizations, including coaching alpine ski racing at Coffee Mill Ski Area in Wabasha. He organized his workplace to bring about greater equality, and he treats people as he’d like to be treated himself — a simple yet profound practice. David is dedicated to justice and is comfortable navigating the complicated legal landscape over which he would preside. He will do so with the grace and courtesy virtually absent from the current political atmosphere. 

A vote for David McLeod is a vote for justice. 

Patrick Sheedy

Rochester