wholeheartedly support Erin Murphy for governor. I first met Erin last summer. I was immediately impressed with her sincerity. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to see Erin at several events.

She really listens as people voice their concerns; and she gives straight answers when questioned about current issues. Erin is a fighter; she’s proven time and again that she can work under pressure. She’s been a state representative for six terms. She’s a strong supporter of single-payer healthcare and unions. SHe’s fighting for fair education funding and better laws to protect Minnesota’s elderly and vulnerable adult populations. Erin is DFL endorsed by several unions, including AFSCME.

I was disappointed when I read a recent Star Tribune article (July 2) in which a group of DFL lawmakers criticized Erin for choosing Erin Maye Quade as her running mate. They stated their disapproval was due to both Erins being from the Metro area. The same sentiment was voiced by the GOP when Gov. Mark Dayton chose Tina Smith as his running mate (Star Tribune, Feb. 5, 2014). There area in which each Erin is from doesn’t concern me because I know they will represent Minnesota.

Erin Murphy has been traveling the state, from end to the other, and she’s been listening to the concerns of rural and urban Minnesotans. She’s not shouting promises from the rooftops, but she is working on solutions. Erin Maye Quade is an advocate for ending child hunger in Minnesota. She is a strong supporter of education. She fights for teachers and their unions. She is smart, ambitious and outspoken — and she’s not afraid to advocate for those who need it the most.

I strongly urge you to vote for Team Murphy in the primary on Aug. 14, or by voting early now.