Tag: Tom Bakk

Statement from House DFL Leadership on Senate DFL Leadership Election

House DFL logoSAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA — House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Majority Leader Ryan Winkler released the following statements:

“Senator Kent is a progressive champion, and I look forward to working with her as the new Senate DFL leader to improve the lives of Minnesotans,” said Speaker Hortman. “In his many years in the Legislature, Senator Bakk has been a steadfast ally for working people. As my partner and leader of the DFL Senate, he has been a trusted resource and friend. He deserves our gratitude and appreciation for his service.”

“Congratulations to Senator Kent on her victory,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “There is so much at stake this year, and I look forward to working with her and Senate DFLers on a bold, progressive agenda to benefit all Minnesotans. Senator Bakk has done so much for the Iron Range and the Senate. Despite this change in leadership, he will continue to be known for his effectiveness and dedication to Minnesota.”

 

Bakk to Delta Air Lines: You can always come home

Senate DFL Caucus Leader Tom Bakk is encouraging Delta Air Lines to move its corporate headquarters to Minnesota, following Georgia Republicans threatening a $50 million tax break on jet fuel that would benefit the airline headquartered in Georgia. Delta Air Lines merged with Minnesota-grown Northwest Airlines in 2008. His statement comes on the same day that Minnesota was named the #2 Best State in the Nation by U.S. News and World Report.

“Delta, you can always come home. Georgia Republicans are threatening a Delta-supported tax exemption on jet fuel. In 2013, Minnesota passed jet fuel tax reforms that would benefit Delta. There are considerable savings waiting for you here in the #2 Best State in the Nation,” Bakk said. “As the former home of Northwest Airlines, Minnesota would welcome your return.”

Minnesota Nice, in this case, extends to airlines with local roots.

Bakk responds to Fischbach’s ascenscion to Executive Branch

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Senate DFL Leader Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, sent a letter today to Lieutenant Governor Michelle Fischbach and Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka asking for the Lt. Gov.’s resignation from the Minnesota Senate.

“Congratulations on becoming lieutenant governor of the State of Minnesota,” writes Bakk. “As you know, the Minnesota Constitution prohibits you from simultaneously holding the offices of state senator and lieutenant governor.”

“As your former colleague, I respectfully ask you to formally acknowledge that you no longer hold the office of state senator for Senate District 13,” continues Bakk.

The letter can be found online here.