Tim Johnson for South Dakota: News

Tim Johnson Right Choice for U.S. Senate

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The American News endorses Tim Johnson for South Dakota's U.S. Senate seat in Tuesday's election.

Johnson, a generally conservative Democratic senator, has demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of Washington politics and South Dakota's place in it. Johnson's resume is experience-rich, spanning a political career starting in the South Dakota Legislature as a representative (1979-1982), state senator (1982-1986); and then 10 years in the U.S. House of Representatives before winning his first seat in the U.S. Senate in 1996.

Throughout his tenure in the U.S. Senate, Johnson has worked to provide a myriad of accomplishments that have benefited South Dakota. While debatable, conventional wisdom ranks success in Congress by how much money a senator or congressperson funnels to the home state constituents. While that might cheapen the definition of political success for some, it is a reality that is revalidated in election after election. In this respect, we believe that Johnson has been a good steward for South Dakotans.

Most recently, Johnson saw a longtime political goal realized when country-of-origin labeling (COOL) was reaffirmed in the 2008 Farm Bill. After six years, this legislation - of which Johnson was a major proponent - is finally set to become reality.

Johnson also had a hand in the Mni Wiconi water project, supporting the Lewis and Clark project and bringing countless dollars to benefit South Dakota universities and infrastructure.

In terms of political power, Johnson holds a coveted spot on the Senate Appropriations Committee, arguably the most influential committee in government, as well as maintaining a seat on the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Indian Affairs Committee.

While a state shouldn't retain a senator just because of such political achievements, a state should also be cautious about turning out such a ranking senator without remarkably clear underperformance. Sen. Johnson has been a valuable performer for South Dakota.

We would caution Johnson to fight for his rightful seats and chairmanships on these Senate committees. In Washington, they eat their young; current moves within his own party might render Johnson's chairmanship opportunities moot.

We remain disappointed in Johnson's decision to not debate his opponent Joel Dykstra. Johnson based his decision on his continuing recovery from a 2006 arteriovenous malformation (AVM), which has affected his verbal communication skills.

As we stated in previous editorials, Johnson showed little respect and trust in his opponent and his constituents in this particular campaign process. Whether politically astute or just plain dumb, Johnson and his handlers were wrong to deny this highly informative candidate exchange.

Republican Joel Dykstra has run from behind this whole campaign. One is always looking up when trying to unseat a long-standing senate incumbent. Not given much chance or financial support from his national party, Dykstra has traveled the state on a limited budget spreading his vision of a better way to represent South Dakota in the U.S. Senate. We applaud his perseverance and effort to keep this campaign on a civil level. But we don't believe that Dykstra is the best alternative for South Dakota in this election.

Our assessment is that Sen. Johnson is fully engaged and completely capable to take on anything that the Senate and a new administration can put before him. Similarly, our expectation is that this senator will deliver great results for South Dakota and the United States for the next six years.

Endorsement: Congressional Incumbents Deserve Re-election

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. Sen. Tim Johnson and Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin are farm-state lawmakers. They’ve proven it during their terms in office, and because of their work in the past for farmers and this state’s agrarian concerns, we feel they both deserve election on Tuesday.

The pair of Democrats also have the experience factor we feel is important for our lawmakers, and it makes no sense now to remove either from office in this time of market instability and the rollercoaster economy in general.

Johnson serves on several powerful committees, most notably the Appropriations Committee, which has its hands on America’s purse strings. He also serves on the Indian Affairs Committee and the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, both of which will be key for South Dakotans in the coming years.

It’s true that we have been terribly disappointed that Johnson has declined to debate his opponent, Republican Joel Dykstra, this election season. But we feel we must overlook this disservice to voters during the campaign and instead focus on his many years of service to those same voters as our senior United States senator.

As for Dykstra, we appreciate his background, which has ties to the oil industry. We just don’t feel he’s a better man to send to Washington than Johnson, who already has proven himself in Congress.

Johnson has pushed for country of origin labeling, for agriculture disaster safety nets and other issues for family farmers. He is endorsed by the NRA, the South Dakota Education Association, the VFW and others.

Herseth Sandlin, too, has fought for South Dakota’s rural interests and, like Johnson, has experience on committees that are important to South Dakota, including the Agriculture Committee, Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Natural Resources Committee. In the past, she was executive director of the South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation.

She is endorsed by the National Education Association, the NRA, the South Dakota Education Association and the national and state branches of the Farmer’s Union, among others.

Her opponent, Republican Chris Lien, comes from a business background in the Black Hills, but has never served in political office of any kind.

Lien and Dykstra have good ideas. We just don’t feel either mounted a strong enough campaign to convince us that they should be in Congress ahead of the incumbents.

We know Herseth Sandlin and Johnson have made controversial votes and at times have followed party lines during their long careers in Congress. But elections, to us, aren’t about a single issue or vote. They are about reliability, experience and dedication to their home state.

Johnson and Herseth Sandlin have those traits, and that’s why we plan to vote for them Tuesday.

Johnson the Right Choice for South Dakotans

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

For the past 29 years, Tim Johnson has served South Dakotans to the best of his ability, achieving more for the state than those who first elected him to the state House of Representatives in 1979 would have ever imagined.

And we believe the incumbent senator will continue to push above and beyond the expectations of the citizens of South Dakota, despite many people’s concerns about his health.
Since August, we have had the opportunity to meet with the senator twice, and each meeting resulted in candid, informative and intelligent conversation about the senator himself and issues facing South Dakotans and Americans. He may not talk as well as he used to, and he may become tired faster than before. But he has not given up, and in our opinion, he never will.During our conversations with Johnson, he brought up some interesting points.

He said this has actually been his most successful year in the U.S. Senate since his first election to the chamber. This year he sent home more money for South Dakota projects than ever before, and his positions on the Appropriations Committee; Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee; and the Energy and Natural Resources Committee have put him in one of the most powerful and valuable situations for South Dakotans.

Johnson also told us that South Dakota needs a senior senator at the national level, as well as a Republican and a Democrat.

And we agree.

Having two freshmen Republican senators in an election year that is likely to be won by the Democratic Party wouldn’t be best for South Dakotans.

And in reference to one of the seemingly biggest issues among voters, Johnson talked about his decision not to debate during this campaign, saying in Washington most of the work is done in committees and there isn’t much need for debate.

Johnson also has a proven track record of voting in alignment with South Dakotans’ wants. Even though he originally endorsed Barack Obama before the presidential primary this year, he cast his super delegate votes for Hillary Clinton because she had won the state.

Most importantly, Johnson’s values and priorities are in line with South Dakotans’. He supports legislation that helps agriculture, veterans, American Indians, economic development, education, the environment, health care and senior citizens, as well as other worthwhile South Dakota causes.

We believe he is the right person for the job.

The Capital Journal editorial board is made up of

• Steve Baker

• Rebecca Cruse

• Bob Miller

• Brenda Forman

• Scott Isburg

• Deb Mortenson

Johnson Maintains Strong 25 Point Lead in Poll Completed Yesterday

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - With a little over three weeks until election day, a new poll released today shows U.S. Senator Tim Johnson maintaining a commanding 25 point lead among South Dakota voters, topping his opponent 60 - 35 percent. Johnson's lead is identical to a mid-July Rasmussen independent poll taken before Johnson announced his intention to forgo debates and before his opponent began a barrage of misleading and false negative television advertising.

The newest poll was conducted from October 6-8 by the Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research Firm, and had a sample size of 627 likely voters. It shows Johnson with substantial leads in every region of the state including in Rapid City, all of West River, Sioux Falls, the Lincoln/Minnehaha region, the Jim River Valley and throughout the I-29 corridor.

Senator Johnson also holds a prominent lead in name identification; 96 percent of the respondents could identify Senator Johnson, while only 53 percent of the respondents could identify his General Election opponent.

The poll was conducted almost a month after Johnson's opponent began airing false negative TV and radio ads throughout the state. In fact, this poll shows that those false ads have hurt Johnson's opponent as much as they have helped him.

"While we know that the only poll that counts is the one on Election Day, these latest numbers confirm our belief that South Dakotans want Tim to keep fighting for them in Washington. Voters in this state are sick of negative politics and misleading attacks, and numbers in this poll indicate that his negatives ads are actually hurting our opponent. Voters know that Tim is working hard and delivering for South Dakota, and they want him to continue to do so for the next six years," said Johnson campaign manager Steve Jarding.

National Rifle Association Endorses Senator Tim Johnson

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - Saying his "pro-gun positions have earned him an 'A' rating," the National Rifle Association (NRA) has announced that it is endorsing U.S. Senator Tim Johnson in his re-election bid.

"Senator Tim Johnson supports the constitutional rights of law-abiding gun owners and sportsmen. He cosponsored legislation to repeal the D.C. Gun Ban, and signed the bi-partisan Congressional amicus brief in the historic Heller case arguing that the Second Amendment protects our individual right to keep and bear arms," said Chris W. Cox, Chairman of NRA-PVF. "His pro-gun positions have earned him an 'A' rating and endorsement from NRA-PVF. I urge every gun owner and hunter in South Dakota to vote for Tim Johnson on November 4th."

"I am happy to have the support and endorsement of the National Rifle Association. Growing up in South Dakota, with its strong hunting and gun rights traditions, I understand and respect the need to maintain the rights and traditions of gun ownership in our country," said Senator Johnson.

Along with the endorsement, the NRA has also contributed $2500 to Johnson's re-election campaign.

Johnson Kicks Off 25 City Tour, Plans 65 Meetings Across State

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD-- The campaign of U.S. Senator Tim Johnson today announced a busy scheduling blitz that will take Senator Johnson to 25 separate South Dakota communities during his final pre-election trip home. During this time, Senator Johnson will participate in 65 scheduled meetings with constituents and the media, visiting many of the 25 communities multiple times over the next 28 days.

Senator Johnson was able to kick off this tour yesterday, once it became clear over the weekend that the Senate would not require any further votes. His tour will include multiple roundtables with folks covering a wide array of issues; numerous scheduled meetings with members of the South Dakota media; windshield tours of Dell Rapids, Mitchell, Huron and Flandreau; joining constituents at a tailgate party before a college football game; attending the Black Hills Pow Wow; and hosting multiple meet-and-greets with constituents throughout the state. Senator Johnson will also spend the last few days before the election attending Get Out the Vote (GOTV) thank you gatherings and rallies across the state.

"Tim's excited to return to South Dakota for the final weeks of this campaign," Johnson Campaign Manager Steve Jarding said. "This will be a great opportunity for Tim to sit down with leaders in dozens of South Dakota's communities to listen to their concerns and to see what more he can do on their behalf in Washington going forward. We had a great and aggressive trip home in August listening and meeting with folks and Tim looks forward to this opportunity as well in the days leading up to the election in November."

With 28 Days Before the Election, Johnson Campaign Shows $1.6 Million Cash on Hand

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - U.S. Senator Tim Johnson's re-election campaign announced today that the campaign enters the final days of this fall's campaign in good shape with approximately $1.6 million cash on hand after having raised over $500,000 in the third quarter, which closed September 30. The campaign also notes that it has received contributions from 13,249 individual donors during the election cycle. The official report the campaign files with the FEC is still being compiled; exact figures will be available in mid-October.

The $1.6 million cash on hand figure is significantly greater than the amount of cash on hand the Johnson campaign had at this same time in his successful 2002 race against then Congressman John Thune. In that race, the Johnson campaign only had about $200,000 cash on hand at the same point in the election.

"We are particularly proud that so many thousands of South Dakotans have stepped up to support Tim and send a powerful signal that they want him back fighting for them for the next six years. South Dakotans have always embraced Tim's independent nature and his tireless and focused determination to do the best he could for our state. Tim had his best year ever this past year fighting for South Dakota, and I think South Dakotans have seen how much he has delivered for them and know that we need Tim Johnson to continue to fight for our state in Washington," said Johnson campaign manager Steve Jarding.

Dykstra Campaign Releases False, Deceitful Attack Ad; Johnson Campaign Calls It A "Desperate Trick"

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - The campaign of U.S. Senator Tim Johnson today fought back against Joel Dykstra's latest attack ad, shedding light on the many misleading statements and inconsistencies that characterize the TV spot.

One of the 30 second ad's most glaring fallacies is its claim that Senator Johnson has not supported or advocated for increased regulatory control over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In fact, Senator Johnson has been a leading and vocal proponent of a stronger, independent regulator of the two agencies, and voted for bipartisan legislation that would have increased regulation of Fannie and Freddie. It was Joel Dykstra's Republican Party who voted this bill down.

Dykstra's ad is also deceitful in its assertion that Senator Johnson has taken $61,000 in campaign contributions from Fannie and Freddie. In fact, in the past 22 years that Senator Johnson has been in office, he has received only $20,000 from Fannie and Freddie's political action committees, which is only .12% - far less than one percent - of his total campaign contributions. On the other hand, commercial banks are the fourth largest campaign contributor to Joel Dykstra's current campaign, revealing a rather glaring inconsistency with the ad's charge.

Furthermore, the ad indicates that there is a connection between Senator Johnson's campaign contributions and his votes, an offensive and false attack. Senator Johnson has never and would never alter his vote or position on an issue because of a campaign contribution. In fact, just yesterday Senator Johnson voted against the Bush Administration's $700 billion Wall Street bailout proposal, a bill that was supported by Wall Street lobbyists.

Finally, the ad highlights Dykstra's stunning lack of knowledge or basic understanding of America's economy and the current crisis facing our nation. The premise of the ad is that the economic crisis is solely due to a lack of oversight for Fannie and Freddie, when clearly the problem is much more complex and involves a host of different factors. This fact has been echoed and explained by scores of economic, financial and political experts during the entirety of the public discussions. In light of this overwhelming evidence, Dykstra's entire ad is based on a false premise.

"The latest attack ad from Joel Dykstra is outrageous and deceitful, but not surprising. It is a desperate and shameless trick from a campaign that is out of money and behind in the polls - an attempted Hail Mary pass from a quarterback with a broken arm. Not only is it willfully misleading and offensive, but it also demonstrates Dykstra's terrifying lack of understanding of the very grave situation our economy faces. However, this ignorance is perhaps to be expected from a man whose campaign website currently claims that we are in a period of 'economic prosperity,'" said Johnson campaign manager Steve Jarding.

"Senator Johnson is an honest man who understands the economic crisis and has consistently stood up for ordinary South Dakotans against Wall Street interests. There's no debate about it: South Dakotans are sick of these types of negative politics and thankfully have not had to endure many of them in this election until now. I don't believe that Mr. Dykstra's latest attempt to drag this campaign into the muck and mud will endear him to voters in South Dakota who are much more sophisticated than that. If Mr. Dykstra knew the state better he would understand that," Jarding said.

In Major Reversal, Dykstra Says He Would Have Voted for Wall Street Bailout

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - Taking a position that undermines his baseless attacks on US Senator Tim Johnson, U.S. Senate candidate Joel Dykstra said today that he would have voted for the $700 billion dollar Wall Street bailout, which passed in the Senate last night. Citing concerns with oversight, CEO compensation, and US tax dollars being used to bail out foreign banks, Senator Johnson voted against the bailout.

While on South Dakota Midday, a program on South Dakota Public Radio, Dykstra was asked whether he would have supported the Senate's $700 billion dollar bailout bill. In the interview, Dykstra said he would have "supported the action the Senate took."

In previous statements, Dykstra has said that Congress should not pass any bailout legislation quickly but should rather wait "until [Congress] reconvenes next year" before taking action and "do as little as possible." His support for last night's bailout package is a sharp departure from his original position and it makes his recent attacks on Senator Johnson suspect and hypocritical.

"Mr. Dykstra's support for the $700 billion Wall Street bailout is not only a flip-flop, but also highlights the hypocrisy of his latest attack ad against Senator Johnson. It is Mr. Dykstra, not Senator Johnson, who would vote to bail out Wall Street bankers with South Dakotans' tax dollars. It is Mr. Dysktra, not Senator Johnson, who appears beholden to special interests. It is Mr. Dykstra, not Senator Johnson, who walks lockstep with his party and ignores the interests of South Dakotans. Mr. Dykstra's support of the Wall Street bailout completely negates and undermines his own trumped up arguments against Tim in his baseless attack ad," said Johnson campaign manager Steve Jarding.

Sen. Tim Johnson celebrates second year back at work by trumpeting achievements

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

In the midst of his promising re-election bid, South Dakota's senior senator celebrated his second year back on the job after a life-threatening brain injury with a party and a 151-page report on his work.

A bit more than a year ago, Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., returned to the U.S. Senate after nine months recovering from an AVM, arteriovenous malformation. The bipartisan fanfare that greeted Johnson seemed as much a reflection of the Senate's well known collegial tradition as of Johnson's recovery from his initial grave condition.

The mainstay of Johnson's campaign message has been that, despite his ongoing recovery, he's on the job and hasn't missed any votes. This hefty report might seem to be a bit of overkill on that front. Besides listing bills that he has sponsored recently, it includes a sprinkling of efforts that pre-date his December 2006 illness. It also includes many bills that Johnson has signed on to co-sponsor, a much easier feat than leading the way on legislation. And, it includes several items that Johnson “supported,” “fought for” and “joined his colleagues in passing.”

Nonetheless, it is a comprehensive look at Johnson's legislative work. I've chosen to focus here on items where he led the way.

*
Another year on, Johnson's speech and mobility might not be back to his previous levels, but he and his staff have fully returned to their tradition of issuing detailed accounts of his efforts on Capitol Hill - with emphasis on his role on the Appropriations Committee. I've compiled a summary of the highlights of the 151-page report, issued by his campaign staff.

- Country-of-origin meat labeling

Perhaps Johnson's biggest victory comes in work he started even before his last re-election bid in 2002. This year's Farm Bill appears to include a COOL provision that will finally go into practice. In the report, Johnson cites it as one reason he's calling this past year “the most successful of his career.”

- Veterans' health care funding

In another arena where Johnson's work started years ago, the senator says his chairmanship of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs was the key to fully funding veterans' health care “for the first time in decades.” The budget topped President Bush's recommendation by about 8.5% and allows for better care for rural veterans, more money to treat returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan for traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder.

- More veterans' health care funding

In February, Johnson introduced the Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act. The bill would make the VA's budget “mandatory” rather than the moving target it now is as a “discretionary line item.” And the bill would calculate the VA's budget on the number of veterans it must serve and the estimated cost to serve them. Congress has yet to take action on this bill.

- Water pipeline funding

After alarm bells sounded loudly across South Dakota's entire congressional delegation when Bush zeroed out the Lewis and Clark water pipeline funding for fiscal year 2009, Johnson's seat on the Appropriations Committee no doubt was key in restoring funding. Johnson's report reads: “Tim was able to secure over $26 million for Lewis and Clark, and in FY 2009 Tim has secured in the Senate energy and water spending bill $30 million dollars.”

- More water pipeline funding

The mammoth Mni Wconi water pipeline project in western South Dakota harkens back to 1988, and officials now estimate it will take until 2013 to complete. Johnson has worked with Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., to keep the money flowing until then. In the near term, Johnson reports this success: “Tim secured $38 million for The Mni Wiconi Water Project for FY 2008. And recently Johnson secured $37 Million for Mni Wiconi's operation and construction in the 2009 Senate Energy and Water funding bill.”

This list of highlights just scratches the surface of the 151-page report, which includes topics not listed here that range from health care to education to American Indian tribes. To read the full report visit, https://secure.democratsenators.org/o/20/images/ThankYouTim.pdf.

Denise Ross has covered South Dakota politics and government since 1999. She publishes Hoghouseblog.com and can be heard weekly on South Dakota Public Radio's Dakota Mid-day show as the political junkie guest. Her column appears weekly. Write to her at denise@hoghouseblog. com.

Senator Johnson Completes 19 City Tour

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - U.S. Senator Tim Johnson has completed his four week, 19 city tour of South Dakota, returning to Washington, D.C. to complete the 2008 Senate session, which starts today. Senator Johnson used this tour to meet with constituents and city leaders, conduct official hearings, and attend the many fairs and festivals throughout the state.

Among other events in the first two weeks of his tour, Senator Johnson held a roundtable discussion on gas prices in Sioux Falls, held a press conference with the South Dakota Education Association, toured the cities of Harrisburg, Madison, and Kadoka, barbequed with voters in both Sioux Falls and Brookings, discussed internet crime prevention with law enforcement officials in Aberdeen, attended the Brown County Fair and Dakotafest, participated in the dedications of the Standing Rock Entrepreneurial Center in McLaughlin, the Heartland Expressway in Rapid City, and the OSRWSS in Wanblee, attended the United Retirement Center open house in Brookings, met with SDSU officials, spoke at the SD Association of Telecom Coops Annual Meeting, met with officials from the Volunteers of America, participated in a Senate hearing on ethanol, interviewed with the Argus Leader and Rapid City Journal editorial boards, and attended the Rosebud Powwow.

Highlights of the second half of his tour, which included a busy agenda of meetings with staff, conducting one-on-one constituent meetings, and performing other Senate duties, were Senator Johnson's tour of the cities of Sturgis, Ft. Pierre, and Yankton, meeting with the mayor of Pierre, a health care roundtable in Watertown and a wind energy roundtable in Lower Brule, discussions the Health Care for America Now initiative with the AFL-CIO, attendance at an event marking the one-year anniversary of his return to the Senate, participation in an Ag Forum with Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin, Senator Thune and South Dakota Agriculture Secretary Even at the State Fair, meeting with the SD Pork Producers at the State Fair, taking part in the Labor Day parade in Wagner, addressing the East River Electric Annual Meeting, speeking at the USD Lee Medical Center dedication in Vermillion, and touring the USD Medical School.

"Traveling the state this past month has been informative and productive. I have had the opportunity to meet with many organizations, city and state leaders, and constituents and discuss issues ranging from rising gas prices to rural water systems to the Farm Bill. I look forward to incorporating these discussions into my work in Washington and continuing to meet with South Dakotans to talk about how best I can serve them in the Senate," said Senator Johnson.

Meeting With Senator Johnson Provides Answers About Condition

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

In the past few weeks, it seems that every newspaper, Web logger and voter in general has formed an opinion about Sen. Tim Johnson's decision not to debate this election year.

Johnson supporters, staffers and the senator himself are saying his speech has not returned enough since his December 2006 brain injury for him to effectively debate an opponent in a race.

Johnson opponents are painting a portrait of a senior senator who believes he already has the race wrapped up, and therefore the debates are just a formality. They are also saying he isn’t capable of cognitive thought processes, so he wouldn’t be able to debate if he tried.

We met with Sen. Johnson last week in Pierre when he was in the middle of his 19-city tour to talk with constituents across the state.

Of course, the Capital Journal publisher, managing editor and state government reporter are not experts on the issue, but we can speak to what we witnessed during that discussion.

The senator is not suffering from any apparent cognitive thinking impairments. He had obviously prepared some responses to some of our questions, just as any politician would do before an interview. Being prepared to discuss the issues is a common practice for most interviewees, political or not.

But our discussions with the senator did not stop with the topics he knew we would ask him about. We also talked about our publisher’s home town — Minot, N.D., — and Johnson’s connection to the congressional delegation representing that state. He shared his memories of some former senators and representatives and talked about the small city, comparing it to Pierre.

We talked about the support the senator has received from other Democrats in Congress.

And he shared with us his frustration and embarrassment over his speech problems.

The senator said he had hoped his speech would recover at a faster pace, judging by his rate of recovery up to the point he decided to run for senate again. And though his speech is not to the point he wants it to be at this point, he believes he is the right candidate for the job.

According to Johnson, most of his accomplishments have been made in committee work and behind the scenes, far from the Senate floor, where his debate skills would be needed.

Sen. Johnson emphasized that this year has been his most successful year ever in the U.S. Senate, and he is working for South Dakotans in the same capacity he was before his injury.

We are not endorsing the incumbent senator, or any candidate, at this time. But we did want to share with our readers our open and frank discussion with the man who so many people have questions about.

Johnson Addresses East River Electric Annual Meeting

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - U.S. Senator Tim Johnson addressed the East River Electric Annual Meeting today at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. The audience of about 350 people consisted of East River employees, board members, area coop members, and WAPA and Basin Electric officials.

"I have always valued the support and friendship of the cooperative community and East River's membership in particular, but it has meant the most to me over the past year," Senator Johnson said. "I believe that what is good for South Dakota's electric cooperative community is good for the entire state. It is from this strong foundation that the towns, communities and cities served by East River retain the opportunities necessary for our children and grandchildren to raise their families in South Dakota."

Senator Johnson has been a strong supporter of East River Electric and its members, fighting against efforts to weaken WAPA and working to reform the Surface Transportation Board and pass a freight railroad bill that strengthens protections for shippers and levels the playing field for shippers who have access to only one rail carrier.

Breast Cancer Survivor Praises Johnson's Work Fighting Cancer

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - Florence "Flo" Hink, a breast cancer survivor from Raymond, praises U.S. Senator Tim Johnson's efforts to fight cancer in a new TV ad released by Senator Johnson's campaign.

Every year since 2000, Tim and Barb Johnson have set up a cancer awareness booth and Mammogram Van at the State Fair to offer fairgoers the opportunity to learn more about the disease, including the benefits of early detection. They have spearheaded efforts to make available the Mammogram Van, which offers free mammograms to women who otherwise wouldn't be able to receive testing because they either don't have health insurance or have high deductibles. In 2004, Flo visited the mammogram booth, was tested and discovered she had breast cancer. Flo then was able to have a mastectomy and has been cancer free for three years.

In the ad, Flo credits the Johnsons for saving her life by helping her detect her cancer early: "I would love to thank Tim and Barb Johnson for my life. If it wasn't for them I'm sure I wouldn't be here today."

Flo also praises Senator Johnson for his work fighting cancer. "I think it's fantastic that he's gotten millions of dollars for cancer research," she says in the ad.

Tim is a cosponsor of the Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act, which would increase research funding to study the environmental factors related to breast cancer and better fund the cost of mammography exams, Pap tests and other cancer screening methods for low-income women. Tim is also a cosponsor of the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act written to protect breast cancer patients from "drive-thru" mastectomies by guaranteeing minimum lengths for hospital stays.

Since 2003, Tim has also used his position on the Appropriations Committee to help secure over $840 million dollars for peer-reviewed breast cancer research at the Department of Defense. While serving in the House, Tim also led the fight to double research funding for the National Institute of Health (NIH) between 1997 and 2003.

The ad will be available later today at www.timjohnson.com.

Water Manager Commends Johnson for Bringing Mni Wiconi to South Dakota

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - Mike Kurle, the former manager of the West River/Lyman Jones Rural Water System, praised U.S. Senator Tim Johnson for his work to make the Mni Wiconi Rural Water Project a reality in a new TV ad released by the Johnson campaign.

The Mni Wiconi Rural Water Project is the world's largest rural water pipeline, and will eventually supply water to the Lower Brule, Pine Ridge and Rosebud reservations, as well as the West River/Lyman Jones Rural Water System, which serves residents in nine counties outside the reservations. Prior to Mni Wiconi, many South Dakotans in these communities had to haul their own water, which was problematic both for the huge cost to do so and for the fact that often South Dakotans were hauling water that was contaminated with water borne diseases.

In the ad, Kurle describes the struggle that these communities have gone through to get funding for rural water systems: "It doesn't matter whether it's the Bush Administration or the Clinton Administration, funds for these projects are continually cut."

Kurle credits Senator Johnson for fighting against these challenges and making sure that South Dakota's water projects had the money they needed, saying that "Senator Johnson has been able to restore these funds."

"I would like to thank Tim Johnson for all he has done to bring quality water to western South Dakota," Kurle says at the end of the ad.

The ad can be viewed later today at www.timjohnson.com.

Overflow Crowd of Hundreds Honor Johnson Accomplishments At One Year Anniversary Party

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - U.S. Senator Tim Johnson was cheered wildly tonight by over 350 friends and supporters at an anniversary party celebrating the one year anniversary of his return to South Dakota following his recovery from his AVM.

The event, at the VFW Hall in Sioux Falls, focused on Senator Johnson's accomplishments in the Senate since his return, and included testimonials from individuals representing the scores of groups Senator Johnson helped over the past year. Speakers included Senate Minority Leader Scott Heidepriem; Larry Birgen, Vice President of SD Farmers Union; Larry Bouska, retired National Service officer; Brian Kaatz, Dean of Health Services at USD; Marlys Pearson, NEA representative; Scott Parsley, ACE board member; and Tim's son, Brendan Johnson.

"Tim's doing the job, and we need Tim as our Senator for the next six years," Scott Heidepriem said.

In his speech after the testimonials were given, Senator Johnson made an impassioned argument for why he should continue serving South Dakota in the Senate:

"For me, this past year was a pivotal one. I not only proved to myself that I can do my job, but I believe I proved to South Dakota that I do it better for our state than anyone else in Washington can. The truth is, now, more than ever, I am in a position to fight and deliver for the state and country I love."

"Now some people are saying I can't walk or talk. That is silly. I may not walk as well as Michael Phelps swims. But I do well enough - I walk on the Senate floor to vote more than 85% of my colleagues. And I may not talk like Barack Obama. But I talk well enough to say this: Not only am I back - I'm not going anywhere. Now, with your help, I'm going to spend the next six years fighting for our state and our country."

"Some other rather mean-spirited people have said that a man who walks slow and talks slow can't get all of that done. Baloney. I know I can do it, because I have been doing it," Johnson said. Johnson, who sits on some of the most powerful committees in the Senate, closed by saying, "South Dakota, you ain't seen nothing yet!"

Johnson Continues Campaign Sweep in South Dakota

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

STURGIS - Sen. Tim Johnson has been storming the state during his campaign for the 2008 election.

Monday afternoon he made stops in Rapid City and Sturgis.

The first stop was in Rapid City, where Johnson honored the Canyon Lake All-Stars for being the first South Dakota team to qualify for the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Penn.

Then it was on to Sturgis, where he was guided on a “windshield tour,” with Mayor Maury LaRue driving the senator around town to show how the city is growing.

City manager David Boone, council member Bernadette Usera and Johnson staffer Matt Varilek also accompanied the pair as they viewed the Sturgis Industrial Park. While the tour was going on, Barbara Johnson, the senator's wife, toured the Crisis Intervention Shelter Services facility on Sherman Street.

The senator commented on how his campaign has been going.

“It's been going well. I have criss-crossed the entire state of South Dakota. I have skipped the Democratic convention to spend more time with South Dakotans,” he said.

He stated that every region has its own concerns. For instance, in East river there is the Lewis and Clark water system, corn and beans. But in west river there is interest in the military and tourism that is unique to the Black Hills and western South Dakota.

Being a chairman of military construction of the VA subcommittee, Johnson has a say in how military construction comes along as well as the VA hospitals. “I have a warm spot in my heart for Sturgis. The VA has an excellent hospital along with the clinic in Rapid City,” he said. In addition, he feels there is room for improvement at Camp Rapid and Ellsworth Air Force Base.

Johnson feels Congress should have a comprehensive plan when it comes to gas prices.

“It ranges from getting after speculators to common sense personal conservation initiatives to efficient automobiles, and trucks such as hybrids,” he said.

He stressed that Republicans and Democrats alike must stop fighting and quit worrying about who gets the credit for solving the crisis.

Johnson felt good about the Obama-Biden presidential ticket.

“It's a very good one and it will be a close election. South Dakota historically is a Republican state. The last Democrat to carry the state was LBJ in 1964. But it will be close. But the main thing is that we get rid of that partisanship and start concentrating on the American people,” he said.

Sen Johnson Commends Obama's Vice Presidential Pick

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – US Senator Tim Johnson applauded Sen. Barack Obama's vice presidential pick today saying that Biden brings great experience but also is a personal friend who helped Johnson when he was recovering from brain surgery.

"I've long admired Sen. Joe Biden, and believe his experience and respect on both sides of the aisle is very important and will offer a strong ticket this fall, and potentially a strong voice for working to address the many challenges facing the next Administration," Sen. Johnson said. "Our country will benefit from Sen. Biden's unparalleled service and familiarity with the issues, as we have during Sen. Biden's many years in the Senate."

Sen. Johnson said he hoped the national ticket for both parties would allow an honest discussion with the American people as to their respective vision for our nation for the next four years and beyond. "I believe that Barack Obama and Joe Biden give us a ticket with vision, strength, experience and determination to lead. There is a lot of work to be done, and I believe this ticket has the tools to accomplish great things for our nation," Sen. Johnson said.

But for Johnson, the Biden pick is more personal. "A few years ago, Joe Biden had a similar brain injury to the one I had and in the early days after my injury, he was a constant friend to Barb and me on the phone and in person. Joe always encouraged me in my recovery and constantly reminded me that while recovery takes time and is hard, I would be back fighting and serving again sooner rather than later. He was right and I will be forever grateful for his support and personal friendship," Johnson said.

On another note, Sen. Johnson indicated he will not be attending the Democratic National Convention next week since the presidential pick is a foregone conclusion. Instead Sen. Johnson will continue to spend the recess touring South Dakota and meeting with voters.

Poll Shows Johnson Support Increasing; Leading Opponent by 27 Points

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD - A new poll shows U.S. Senator Tim Johnson gaining support among South Dakota voters, increasing his lead over his opponent to 61 - 34 percent. These numbers are an increase over the last published national poll conducted in July by Rassmussen Polling, which showed Johnson with a 60 - 35 percent lead. This current poll also shows that Senator Johnson's job approval with voters continues to be among the highest of any Senator in Washington, as an impressive 68 percent of the respondents approve of the job Johnson is doing for them.

The poll was conducted from August 12 - 14 by the Greenberg Quinlan Rosner research firm. 44 percent of the respondents identified themselves as Republicans and 34 percent of the respondents identified themselves as Democrats.

The poll was conducted the week after Senator Johnson announced that he would not be participating in any debates this election cycle. When asked about Senator Johnson's decision not to debate, 75 percent of the respondents said that debates were not very important to them and that his decision would not determine their vote. Rather, they said that Senator Johnson's job performance would determine their vote.

"This poll shows that the vast majority of South Dakotans support Senator Johnson; they know that he has been working hard over the past year since his injury and indeed is delivering for them in record numbers. In short, South Dakotans like Tim and the work he's doing for them, and they will decide their vote based on this assessment. As always, we never take any support for granted, and Senator Johnson will continue to tour the state, meet with constituents, and discuss his plan for improving the lives of all South Dakotans. And when Senator Johnson returns to the Senate in September, he will continue to work hard and use his influence and seniority to ensure that South Dakota's interests are well-represented," said campaign manager Steve Jarding.

Senator Johnson's aphasia is no handicap in this election

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sen. Tim Johnson suffers from aphasia and doesn’t do a very good job of orally communicating his thoughts, which are a direct reflection of his intellect, which in turn is unaffected by aphasia.

So what’s the big deal? For obvious reasons his handicap makes debating his Republican opponent, state Rep. Joel Dykstra, a virtual impossibility, as the quick give-and-take of a spirited debate is beyond the incumbent senator’s grasp for the time being. Naturally, that compels more than a few people around the state to question his ability to function as their representative in the United States Senate, and probably with some reason. I suspect that the most vocal complainers about the senator’s decision not to debate just happen to be Republican supporters of Dykstra, who are taking this opportunity to turn Johnson’s impairment into a political asset that might be of some value to their man Dykstra come November.

Whether my suspicions are unfounded or not, though, I can’t think of a more irrelevant factor in comparing the merits of the two opponents, who should be judged on the basis of experience and political inclinations, not physical handicaps. After reading up on the literature of aphasia, I’m convinced — as anyone who studies up on it would be — that the condition has no affect on the intellect and judgment of those unfortunate enough to suffer from it, and I have absolutely no problem with Johnson’s decision to stay off the debate platform.

For one thing, his halting speaking manner would only take attention away from the content of the senator’s utterances, making a debate, for all practical purposes, meaningless. For another, even when the senator is on top of his rhetorical game, he’s neither a tower of charisma nor a gifted orator, certainly not remotely comparable to the quick-witted Tom Daschle or the charm-laden John Thune.

Some might even say that the senator is doing himself a favor by not debating, and I’d be one of them. Kidding aside, his dull style notwithstanding, Johnson has been a competent, even courageous (and extremely so, when you consider what it took to buck his party and senior colleague Tom Daschle by voting for the Bush tax cut) representative, taking that word seriously even when it meant crossing political swords with his party’s national establishment.

Though it’s true that Johnson has no hope of keeping up with many of the prima donnas in the United States Senate when it comes time to discuss issues on the floor of the Congress, most of us should be politically sophisticated enough to understand that virtually all of that rhetorical posturing has more to do with political grandstanding than doing the actual work of analyzing and discussing the merits of legislation.

That work is done with staff experts and political advisors, and gets accomplished in the quieter reaches of senatorial offices and chambers. In that setting, Sen. Johnson’s impairment will have no bearing on his ability to function. As to debating, South Dakota media are perfectly capable of preparing policy issues and submitting them to the campaigns, then publishing or airing the respective responses and positions — which is probably a much more thoughtful and rational way of getting at the differences among the candidates than putting them under the pressure of a televised confrontation, where points are scored more on the basis of personality and telegenisis than actual approaches to policy.

No doubt the Dykstra campaign can take the lead on this by issuing specific policy points and challenging Johnson to respond, point by point. The Republican is probably in such tough political shape at this point that he’ll have to do something dramatic to get people’s attention. If he or his surrogates continue to make some hay off Johnson’s aphasia, the campaign might as well concede that it can’t win on the issues.

I have yet to make a decision on this race, but I know that physical impairment won’t be part of the process that determines my vote. To that extent, South Dakota as a whole should be able to take some pride in the fact that its voters aren’t swayed by physical handicaps when it comes time to choosing their elected officials.

John Tsitrian is a Rapid City businessman and writer. Contact him at tsitrian@rap.midco.net.

Sen Johnson Attends Dakotafest

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson visited Dakotafest today, touring the grounds, talking with farmers, and visiting booths. Steve Dick from Ag United for South Dakota accompanied the Senator during his visit.

“I enjoyed spending time at Dakotafest and visiting with farmers from around the state. Agriculture is one of the pillars of this state’s economy, and we need to ensure that our farmers have the tools they need for success. I worked hard to secure Country of Origin Labeling in the 2008 Farm Bill, and will continue to fight for ag interests in the Senate,” said Senator Johnson.

Johnson is spending his break from the Senate criss-crossing the state meeting with constituents and organizations, attending forums and roundtable discussions, conducting official Senate business, and attending many of the summer fairs and carnivals as he moves around the state.

Sen Johnson to Attend Dakotafest

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson will be attending Dakotafest on Tuesday, August 19 at 2:45 pm CT. Senator Johnson will tour the grounds, speak with farmers, and visit booths. Steve Dick from Ag United for South Dakota will accompany Senator Johnson during his visit.

WHO:    U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD)
WHAT:    Dakotafest
WHEN:    Tuesday, August 19, 2008, 2:45 pm CT – 3:45 pm CT
WHERE:    Dakotafest
        Schlaffman Farm
        2300 Spruce Street
        Mitchell, SD

Senator Johnson BBQs with Supporters

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson was back in Brookings again today where he attended a barbeque at the George Mickelson Middle School. At the barbeque, Brookings area constituents had the opportunity to speak with the Senator one-on-one as well as in small groups, and the topic of discussion ranged from energy to health care to agricultural issues.

“I was delighted to be able to speak to voters on an individual basis and discuss their concerns and the things that affect their daily lives. From rising gas prices to soaring health care costs, people are hurting, and I was glad to have the opportunity to discuss what I am doing to help alleviate these problems in the Senate,” Senator Johnson said.

While talking to voters, Senator Johnson discussed his support for offshore drilling and investing in renewable and alternative energy sources, such as ethanol, to alleviate energy costs. He also spoke about his leading role in the fight to secure Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) in the Farm Bill, which will benefit both farmers and consumers.

Johnson is spending his break from the Senate to criss cross the state meeting with constituents, conducting official Senate business, and attending many of the summer fairs and carnivals as he moves around the state.

Senator Johnson Attends Brown County Fair

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson was back in Aberdeen today where he attended the Brown County Fair. Senator Johnson met with constituents and discussed issues ranging from energy to agriculture.

Tim Erickson, a fair attendee, said, “I enjoyed meeting Tim today, and I was really impressed with him. He’s so sharp intellectually, and he’s worked hard for South Dakota on so many things. He can do the job and he’s doing the job.”

Johnson is spending his break from the Senate to criss cross the state meeting with constituents, conducting official Senate business, and attending many of the summer fairs and carnivals as he moves around the state.

Mayor Munson Praises Johnson in TV Ad

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Sioux Falls, SD – The campaign of U.S. Senator Tim Johnson has released a new television ad today featuring Sioux Falls Republican Mayor, Dave Munson. In the ad, Munson commends Senator Johnson for all the work he has done for the Sioux Falls community, and expresses confidence in Senator Johnson’s ability to serve in the Senate after his brain injury.

“I think he’s more than up to the job,” says Munson at the beginning of the ad. He goes on to talk about Senator Johnson’s ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans, and calls the Senator a “great partner for me to work with.”

When discussing Senator Johnson’s accomplishments for Sioux Falls, Munson says, “I can’t even list all the projects Tim Johnson has done for Sioux Falls – there are that many.” The ad highlights Johnson’s work securing $110 million for the Lewis and Clark Water Project, $24 million for the I-29 highway, $95,305 for the Graduate Education and Applied Research Center, and $40 million for the Sioux Falls Rail Relocation Project. All of these projects have directly benefited the Sioux Falls community.

At the end of the ad, Mayor Munson states, “The bottom line is that Tim Johnson does get results, and I am a personal witness to that.”

You can view the ad at www.timjohnson.com.