Dear Minnesota: 'You're fired'

Posted at 12:14 PM on June 30, 2011 by Bob Collins (11 Comments)
Filed under: Politics

News Cut reader Doreen Clark has penned a letter to the state of Minnesota, informing it that it is fired.

Dear "State,"

After long contemplation and personal struggle with my "Minnesota Nice," I have decided that this is not working for me - so, you are fired.

I have thought long-and-hard about the great things our state has to offer, including our beautiful parks and our state workers that continue the outstanding Minnesota work ethics tradition that we are known for. You have decided the things we take pride in are not vital. I disagree, so yes, you are fired.

I thought about my own job description and, boy are you lucky to have worked as long as you have. Consider yourself fortunate. In this economy, I am sure there are many that would take your pay, settle the budget and actually do what they were hired to do. Yes, you are fired.
What is your job description anyways, state? Did it include shunning those that looked to you for support? If so, then that is one check in your corner. If, on the other hand, it included securing a budget, which by all accounts it probably did, this is why we are having this frank discussion. Also, I have found your people skills lacking. You're fired.

At my job, I have people I am accountable to and I can't just walk away or throw a fit if I disagree. But, I am sure you know this. Do you think that good business rules don't apply to you?

As we finalize this separation agreement, I want you to know that everyone in this state IS vital. And, it hurts to hear you say that some are not. Have you ever heard the saying,"actions speak louder than words?" Your words are loud and clear and unacceptable. You are fired.
I think that it is time that you reflect and time is running out.

Play nice on the playground (if it's not closed), do the job you were hired to do and apologize to the state of Minnesota for having to listen to your childish squabbles at our expense - or yes, you are fired!

Sincerely,

Doreen Clark

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Comments (11)

Well said, Doreen

Posted by Paul (@princejvstin) | June 30, 2011 12:42 PM

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Amen!

Posted by matt | June 30, 2011 1:54 PM

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This is GOLD, Doreen, pure GOLD!

Posted by Jack Boardman | June 30, 2011 4:52 PM

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Although my students & their families, my fellow teachers and public employees, and myself just screwed over by Wisconsin's budget, at least our state parks will be open this weekend. Good luck, guys!

Posted by Monte | June 30, 2011 5:16 PM

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As a state employee, I find it incredibly disheartening that the Republicans cannot find it in their hearts to tax the richest 2%. They are not opposed to losing the state millions of dollars due to the shutdown, and it does not seem to bother them that we will suffer from the loss of income. I hope they can face themselves in the morning. And I hope they get no paycheck since they are not doing their jobs and should be fired.

The state employees and Minnesotans should remind the legislators - pay now or pay later at the polls.

Stand firm Governor Dayton!

Posted by Nancy | June 30, 2011 8:39 PM

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Yes I so agree the one man needing to be fired is Govenor Dayton. His 'I need more money so I can spend more' attitude and refusal to accept common sense cuts in government is a definite reason for his pink slip!

Posted by Ron | June 30, 2011 9:00 PM

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I half-way agree -- but it isn't the State that I'd fire, but the recalcitrant and fanatical Republican legislators who refuse to engage in good faith political dialog and compromise. On the other hand, I'd give Governor Dayton a raise and a new contract. Stand firm, Governor. The People are behind you.

Posted by Paul Landskroener | June 30, 2011 10:22 PM

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Stand firm, Governor Dayton.

Posted by Lily | June 30, 2011 10:26 PM

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As the legislature and the Dayton administration point fingers across the table this evening let us hold them all to account! The current climate in American politics must change, we must rid ourselves of the impotent bi-partisan idiocy.

Posted by Chris | June 30, 2011 10:39 PM

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To those blaming "both sides" let me point out that one side - the Republican Party- started "negotiations" with a rigid, "my-way-or-the-highway" position, refusing to even consider revenue increases of any kind, demanding draconian cuts and yet more Pawlenty style payment shifts. The Governor responded with an offer of smaller tax increase and more cuts. This was rejected out of hand. We now learn that the late Republican "offers" included demands for concessions on social legislation. The Republicans have demonstrated an unwillingness to find common ground and are out of touch with the economic realities of this state. The Governor's approach is clearly the better choice here.

Posted by Frank | July 1, 2011 9:19 AM

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Well said Doreen. It seems at times that our governments are as corrupt a some 3rd world countries. Why do we keep electing these politicians and pay them to represent us. What ever happened to "For the people and by the people". The rich get richer and the poorer get poorer. Hey Minnesota, "you are fired".

Posted by Dick | July 1, 2011 11:08 AM

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