Letter: In support of Jim Arlt

To the editor,

Representative Pat Garofalo recently chastised Democrats on Twitter for voting to change the home mortgage deductions back in 2009 that would have made wealthy Minnesotans pay a little more taxes. That 2009 bill was vetoed, which Garofalo was happy about, because in his words it “would increase the cost of home ownership.”

Fast forward from then to the most recent legislative session, and what does Garofalo think happened to the cost of home ownership when he voted to eliminate the Homestead Credit for Minnesota homeowners? Didn’t that vote“increase the cost of home ownership?”But his vote didn’t just affect wealthy people with giant mortgages who get to take a tax deduction for tens of thousands of dollars, his vote increased taxes on most of us right here in the towns and townships he represents, even those who have paid off their mortgages, or those underwater on their $175,000 mortgage.

Garofalo increased the cost of home ownership. The next time he or one of his supporters knocks on your door, ask why he raised taxes on us, instead of the wealthiest Minnesotans.

When you vote on Nov. 6, remember that Garofalo’s opponent, Jim Arlt, a Hastings area resident, is an independent, truly caring Christian, with a big heart, who has the integrity of a career cop serving his neighbors in the most honorable way. Vote for Jim Arlt for Minnesota Representative in 58B.

Steve Quist

Chair, Senate District 58 DFL

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