Simon Endorses Barnes in 3rd District Race

Rep. Steve Simon (DFL-District 44A) has endorsed Brian Barnes in his bid to unseat Republican Rep. Erik Paulsen in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District.

Simon, who represents St. Louis Park and Hopkins, said in a letter that Barnes is a "great Democrat."

"He’s someone I’ve always been able to count on and he’s always been there for our party," Simon wrote. "In good times and bad, Brian has stood with Democrats throughout the West Metro."

Barnes, a former U.S. Marine who now manages global sales and marketing for the marine division of engine manufacturer Cummins Inc., is campaigning against another DFL candidate, rental property owner Sharon Sund, Politics in Minnesota reports. Both are actively seeking the party's endorsement in the race.

Simon said Barnes is the "best choice among the candidates running in the 3rd Congressional District."

The representative added: "You can trust Brian to stand up for the middle class, for marriage equality, and for a tax code that rewards hard work instead of those who can afford the best accountants."

Simon is the first legislator to offer an endorsement in the race, according to Politics in Minnesota.

The incumbent Paulsen has been in office for one term after defeating DFLer Ashwin Madia in 2008 by a 48 percent to 41 percent margin.