From the June 12, 2004 Oshkosh Northwestern

Independent candidate vows to fix legislature

While reading Dan Anderson-Hereth's opinion about Tony Palmeri's run for the State Assembly it became obvious that Mr. Anderson-Hereth just doesn't understand the problem we face in Madison. The State Legislature just isn't working and one more Democrat or Republican won't fix it! In fact, adding another partisan representative will only make the situation worse.

As an Independent candidate for the 54th District, I considered this issue for a long time before choosing not to align myself with a party. While many choose one side of the aisle or the other, accept that philosophy and the special interest campaign money, it became clear to me that this is where Wisconsin's problems originate.

It is time for a wake-up call to all "main party" candidates that the citizens of this state and district will no longer tolerate their behavior in Madison.

I encourage voters to listen to the views of Tony Palmeri and all candidates. As an independent legislator I would represent the people of the 54th Assembly District not just fellow politicians of one party or the other and the special interest groups that line their pockets.

I would also urge others to run for office. There is still time to get your name on the ballot. Discussion of a wide range of viewpoints is what this country is all about.

:Dan Carpenter Independent Candidate for the 54th Assembly District Oshkosh