Let’s just say I know a good headline like the one above will get people to read this analysis, or depending on your point of view — drivel.
But I believe it is not out of the realm of possibility that voters in the Mankato region, or the 1st Congressional District could determine the outcome of the presidential election.
Why? Because we have a history of being so called “swing voters.” We vote for the person, generally, not the party, and we have a big, big independent streak.
Going back to the 1992 presidential election, the Mankato region and 1st District had one of the highest percentages if not the highest percentage of people voting for the independent candidate — Ross Perot. Remember him?
Then take the gubernatorial race. We had a very high turnout for independents including Jesse Ventura and Tim Penny and Tom Horner.
Take the 1st Congressional District. We for decades elected solidly Republican candidates until Tim Penny won the surprise race in the 1980s. Penny’s conservative/Democratic leanings kept him in office for years. Then we switched back to Republican Gil Gutknecht. Now we’re back to Democrat Tim Walz.
Given that this year the presidential election looks to be very, very close again, it could be a few thousand votes, and yes, it could be the independent-minded, unpredictable Mankato region that decides the whole thing.
So this year, more than ever, your vote will definitely count.
Joe Spear’s blog is regularly updated at katojoe.blogspot.com
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