Kagen launches 2nd-term campaign [Shawano Leader]
By Tim Ryan
U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen (D-Wis.) stopped in Shawano Tuesday as part of a campaign swing officially marking the start of his re-election bid to the 8th Congressional District.
Kagen will once again face Republican John Gard, who lost to Kagen when both ran for the vacant seat in 2006.
More than 70 people crowded into American Legion Post 117 for Kagen’s appearance.
“We’re here in the legion to commemorate the service of our veterans,” said Kagen, who then asked veterans in attendance to stand for a round of applause.
Kagen said the government needed to continue to guarantee benefits for veterans.
“You covered our backs in harm’s way and we have to cover your backs at home,” Kagen said.
Kagen told the crowd he expected a tough race against Gard.
“We need your support more than ever,” he said.
Kagen, who is in his first term as congressman, said he found there is sometimes a skeptical attitude in Washington toward freshman lawmakers from the 8th Congressional District.
“You’re not really here until you’re re-elected,” he said.
The 8th Congressional District has traditionally gone Republican, except for a few one-term Democrats who were elected.
Kagen quoted Robert F. Kennedy in saying the election rides on questions of what kind of a nation we want to be and what direction we want to take.
“We have to turn this country around,” Kagen said.
Kagen highlighted the bipartisan success in saving Senior Care during his first term and the implementation of Homeland Security recommendations made by the 9-11 Commission.
He said another priority is expanding the middle class.
“We need tax breaks for the middle class and higher-wage jobs,” he said…
