When I first ran for Congress in 1998, people counted me out.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I was elected six times to represent southern Arizona, in the State Legislature and then in Congress.
I ran for Congress because I want to make sure others have the same chance at the dream that I had for generations to come.
When I first ran for governor, the political class and party leaders opposed me with great vigor, and some even said if I won the primary they would never vote for me. But the voters had other ideas, and they are the only ones who count.
I continued to serve in Congress until 2001.
The Minnesota Republican hierarchy didn't want me to run against their incumbent in 2000; they didn't know who I was. And once many party bigwigs did get to know me, they weren't sure that I could win the seat.
I never thought I would run for Congress. If you look back at a certain reality TV show, you know that.
I was never supposed to make it to Congress. I was a staff person.
I ran for president in 1996.
I was in the Minnesota state Senate from 2000 until 2006. In 2006, I was urged to run for Congress, I did. And I've been here ever since.
I ran for Congress, just once.