Dahlberg goes after McFadden in GOP Senate battle
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St. Louis County Commissioner Chris Dahlberg is accusing businessman Mike McFadden of dodging issues in the Republican race to find a challenger to run against DFL Sen. Al Franken this fall.
At a state Capitol news conference Thursday morning, Dahlberg said McFadden owes Minnesotans specific answers to questions about the issues.
"I’ve been stunned by his disregard for the intelligence of the people in our state.," Dahlberg said. "He has consistently been unwilling or unable to answer even the simplest questions about where he stands on issues."
Citing convention delegates, the McFadden campaign turned the criticism back on Dahlberg.
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"They are sick and tired of Republican candidates beating each other up," said McFadden campaign spokesman Tom Erickson. "Our campaign is focused on defeating Sen. Franken, and we'd encourage the other Republican candidates to do the same."
Dahlberg defended his criticism.
“I realize some may say that by pointing out Mr. McFadden’s evasiveness, I’m breaking Reagan’s rule about not personally attacking fellow Republicans.," said Dahlberg. "There’s nothing personal about this, and I will never personally attack Mr. McFadden, Senator Franken or any other candidate. I am simply questioning why someone who wishes to represent Minnesotans has difficulty with public questions about the issues. And that’s fair game"
Dahlberg also criticised McFadden for not pledging to abide by the GOP endorsement.
Minnesota Republicans meet for their state convention at the end of May, but a hard-fought primary battle will likely be needed to determine the eventual GOP nominee to take on Franken in November.