Rep.-elect Theis to be sworn in Tuesday

State Rep.-elect Tama Theis will be sworn into office on Tuesday.

Theis, a Republican, won a special election on Feb. 12 and will represent part of St. Cloud. She is taking over the seat vacated by Rep. Steve Gottwalt, also a Republican.

Theis would not offer many specifics but said Gov. Dayton's budget proposal has a long way to go.

"I'm not big on raising taxes to get what you want," Theis said. "I think you need to look at a lot of different variables, and I believe that when the economy grows you automatically do better. Your revenue goes up, and I think we need to continue on that path and a not only watch the money that we're bringing in, but how it's going out."

Theis owns a remodeling company and said she brings small business experience to the Legislature.

"Being a voice of small business, I feel that I have a lot to say about what's happening, especially in light of the budget and some of the other issues that are going on," Theis said. "I feel like I'm a really good fit to be there right now."

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