A member of Minneapolis Pipefitters Local 539 and the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe, Paquin said his goal is to provide jobs for all of the citizens of northern Minnesota. He said he would like to see federally owned manufacturing plant developed in the area to supply needed materials to the federal government. He said it would be a partnership between Indian tribes, the federal government and the community at large.
Paquin, who describes himself as a "working man," wants to create jobs and see that affirmative action issues are being followed regarding the hiring, employment, training and promotion of native Americans. He said there should be Indian representation in the Legislature. Indians, he said, should see more benefits in terms of political clout since they oversee a $19 billion industry with their casinos.
"It would be beneficial to create a working partnership with the state of Minnesota to end racism and poverty and unemployment.
"Every American Indian that doesn't have a job, he becomes a liability because now we have to pay for the health and welfare of that person," Paquin said. "It's not just about jobs, it's about learning how to bridge that cultural gap."
Paquin said the gambling compacts between the state of Minnesota and Indian tribes should be re-examined. He said he doesn't want to see the end of Indian sovereignty but wants Indians and the government to develop a better working relationship.
He said Olson does not understand the magnitude of the problem for American Indians.
Paquin is seeking the DFL endorsement but he said that he would consider running in a primary if he does not win the endorsement.
The Bemidji man has not served in elective office before.
Senate District 12 includes portions of Cass, Itasca, Beltrami, Hubbard and the northern half of Crow Wing County.
MIKE O'ROURKE may be reached at mike.orourke@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5860.
