Recently, this newspaper printed a story on the DFL convention. I want to begin by saying the article was a fine piece of journalism. Kristin Holtz is a credit to her profession, covering the entire convention word for word, even my words.

You see, at one point I made a speech regarding partisanship in St. Paul. In the middle of the speech a woman asked if I would be the DFL candidate to run against Dean Urdahl. This is where I made my mistake. With a laugh, and in a sarcastic tone that my listeners know well, I responded with a “We will see.”

This was not intended as a ringing declaration that I would enter the House race against Rep. Urdahl. In fact, it was quite the opposite. During the convention, I saw our two-party system for what I always suspected it to be — two groups concerned first and foremost about winning, controlling the convention, and the way their underlings think.

This simply did not gel with what I believe. Not only did I tell Dr. Detert I was not interested in running, but that day I told myself I was now a registered independent.

My speech on bipartisanship accomplished everything I wanted to. It got the point across that we are living within a system that encourages group think and gang mentality, that does not elevate the level of discourse but rather promotes a “with us or against us” attitude. Unfortunately, I also left the door open for a campaign for the Legislature, which I sincerely regret if I led anyone on.

I respect Rep. Urdahl. While I disagree with him on some issues (and believe me we have had some fun conversations on them) I embody the speech I made that day, to not be partisan, and to listen to people with other points of view, and to concede the point when I don’t have one. Rep. Urdahl has my respect and my friendship (sorry, Dean, I can’t commit my vote yet) and he will not have to worry about being beaten by a 21-year-old radio show host.

My role is as the jester, the jester is in place to poke fun at the king, and that will continue to be my role. Besides, there is no better radio show in this area, and what would all my wonderful listeners do if I became part of the same system I have been bashing every day, like clockwork, for over a year?

Aaron Imholte, Litchfield
Aaron Imholte is host of an afternoon talk show on KLFD 1410 AM.