A consensus builder, Keith has the ability to negotiate positive change from entrenched parties, building a better future for every American. Keith knows the power of information and aims to educate constituents, bringing them into the political process and teaching them the power of a democratic movement.

“We need leaders who are committed to peace, a clean and sustainable environment, strong public schools and a healthcare system that works for all people. I am that leader and will continue to be that leader as a congressman from Minnesota.”-Keith Ellison

What Makes Keith an Extraordinary, Visionary Leader?

Keith has the ability negotiate real change, to institute reforms without sacrificing ideals. He believes that government need not choose between jobs and the environment, but that a reinvestment of resources into new, environmentally sound technologies would create industries of the future with the ability to create jobs and preserve precious resources.

Yet, while environmental change will have long-term consequences, Keith knows that millions of Americans are suffering today, unable to afford the exorbitant price of health care. As a representative of Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, he would work to institute a single-payer health care system, which he believes “represents a dramatic step forward in providing health care for the uninsured and not punishing people for getting sick.”

Background

A born organizer, Keith is currently serving in the Minnesota Legislature, representing one of the state’s most diverse districts. During his term, he has worked to build bridges among his constituents’ various communities and has represented them on the legislature’s Public Safety, Policy, and Finance Committees, as well as the Election and Civil Law Committee.

Throughout his career, he has been a dedicated public servant. Prior to his election as a representative, he worked in the Legal Rights Center where he carried a full caseload and organized a variety of community initiatives.

Public involvement has always been among his top priorities. He has tried to foster strong ties between the government and the people, providing a means by which their voices can be heard. Epitomizing this goal was his instrumental role in establishing the Minneapolis Civilian-Police Review Board. Believing in the power of truthful information to galvanize a community, he was a long-time community radio host and regularly testified before governmental committees on key issues.

Race Facts

Race Type: Open Seat
Primary Opponent: Gail Dorfman, Mike Erlandson, Ember Reichgott Junge, Ann Knapp, Jack Nelson-Pallmyer
Primary Date: September 12, 2006
Primary Election Results: Won Primary
General Opponent: Alan Fine
General Election Date: November 7, 2006
General Election Results: Won, 56 – 21 percent