Peggy Flanagan Engages Voters in Luverne for Senate Bid

During her 25th stop on the Loud & Clear Voice Tour: Caucus Kickoff, Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Luverne on Saturday evening. The event, held at the Generations event center, is part of her campaign for the U.S. Senate, which includes 44 planned stops across the state. Flanagan aims to connect with citizens and gather support as she seeks to represent them in Washington.

The meeting commenced with Barbara Veldhuizen, chairwoman of the Rock County Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, expressing gratitude to Flanagan for making the trip to the area. Following her remarks, Nicholas Fryer, Flanagan’s campaign organizer, outlined the upcoming steps for the Precinct Caucus on February 3, 2024. He also shared a personal motto that resonated with the audience: “Find the rainbows in your clouds, but also be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.”

Flanagan’s Personal Connection to Politics

Flanagan shared her personal story, emphasizing how federal and state benefits supported her family during her childhood. “The people of Minnesota helped to lift us up, get us back on our feet. And now I get to pay that back,” she stated. This sentiment reflects her campaign’s focus on the real experiences of Minnesotans she encounters on her journey.

Throughout her tour, Flanagan has listened to constituents expressing their fears and frustrations regarding the current political climate. She cited the recent ICE raids as a significant source of anxiety for many families. “What is being done under the guise of safety is making us all less safe,” she remarked, articulating the anger and despair prevalent among the communities she meets.

Flanagan criticized the defensive approach often taken by Democrats, insisting that it is time to adopt a more proactive stance. “I am sick and tired of Democrats fighting from a defensive crouch or thinking that sternly worded letters are going to be what gets us out of this mess,” she asserted. Flanagan emphasized the need for boldness and clarity in addressing issues faced by the public.

Campaign Focus and Future Goals

Her political history includes advocacy for paid family and medical leave, school meals for children, affordable childcare, and raising the minimum wage. “Because when I get to Washington, everybody’s coming with me,” Flanagan said, reinforcing her commitment to her constituents. She envisions a long-term strategy that extends beyond her immediate campaign, stating, “We are building for 2028 and 2030 and 2032.”

Flanagan’s visit to Luverne exemplifies her dedication to engaging with voters across Minnesota. As she continues her tour, she seeks not only to secure support for her Senate candidacy but also to foster a collective movement for change among the people she aims to represent.