Big MN union backs challenger to DFL Rep. Pelowski

Minnesota's dominant state employee union is backing a Democratic challenger to longtime Democratic state Rep. Gene Pelowski after he opposed a $1 billion tax bill.

AFSCME Council 5 has endorsed Winona City Council member Debbie White in her first run for state office.

A union official said Pelowski treated his constituents "with contempt" by voting no on tax increases for the wealthy, alcohol and credit card companies. Pelowski was one of two House Democrats who voted against overriding Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto of the bill.

Pelowski said he wasn't invited to screen for the endorsement and has requested that chance. He says it would have been a disservice to vote for a tax bill that wouldn't be signed into law.

Pelowski said he hasn't decided whether to run for re-election but is leaning that way. He is serving his 12th term representing a district that includes Winona and La Crescent.

AFSCME stands for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

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