I voted early in Minneapolis’ upcoming election today. The mayor is up for reelection, as is the City Council and the Library and Park Boards. I’m lending my support to the incumbent mayor, R.T. Rybak. Rybak was handed a city budget in shambles when he came to office, but he has done a commendable job of putting the city on surer financial footing. He has also spearheaded several neighborhood revitalization projects in areas that desperately need them, particularly the North Side. I also like his energy and his ability to promote Minneapolis as a livable, increasingly diverse city.
His challenger, Peter McLaughlin, simply hasn’t given me sufficient reason to believe that a change is necessary. I’m also not thrilled with McLaughlin’s recent second-guessing regarding the established Hennepin County smoking ban.
It will be a close election, but I’m looking forward to seeing what Rybak can do for the city with another four years in office.
