Sustainable local economies are very important to me. I believe it is critical that we build and maintain our local economy by shopping locally, buying from local producers, and supporting local businesses.
I practice what I preach. My campaign has purchased all of it's materials - printing, t-shirts, signs, etc. from local businesses in Minneapolis and greater Minnesota. We certainly could have saved a couple dollars by buying this stuff from China or India then shipping it halfway across the world. However I believe this sort of activity is irresponsible. It hurts our local businesses, makes us more dependent on foreign suppliers, and wastes energy. I believe in free trade and the right of individuals and businesses to make their own choices concerning trade. However for me, my family, my campaign, and my business, I will always favor local over global.
I also believe in supporting and eating food grown by local producers. I have been a subscriber to CSA (community sponsored agriculture) and a member of various food COOPs since 1998. This model of sharing in the risks of farming keeps us closer to the land and makes us more cognizant of the effects that natural disaster (such as floods or hail) have on our food production.
I encourage the citizens of Minnesota to learn more about these things by visiting your local COOP and asking the friendly folks there about them. Another great resource is the yearly Living Green Expo at the St. Paul Fairgrounds.