Michelle Tafoya Headlines Duluth Republican Women’s Fall Luncheon
The Duluth Republican Women gathered recently for their Fall Luncheon and Annual Meeting
PROCTOR, Minn. — The Duluth Republican Women gathered Saturday, Oct. 17, at Black Woods Grill & Bar in Proctor for their Fall Luncheon and Annual Meeting, featuring Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michelle Tafoya and Minnesota House District 3B incumbent Natalie Zeleznikar.
Minnesota House District 11A incumbent Jeff Dotseth and Minnesota State Sen. Mark Koran also shared brief remarks during the gathering, which focused on the upcoming election, voter participation and the candidates' views on issues affecting Minnesota and the nation.
Tafoya addresses campaign, voter turnout
Tafoya, a former sports broadcaster seeking a seat in the U.S. Senate, encouraged attendees to focus on voter turnout and reach out to family members, friends and neighbors during the final weeks of the campaign.
She pointed to Minnesota's 2022 election as an example of how voter participation can influence the outcome of statewide races. Tafoya said approximately 200,000 Minnesota Republicans did not vote that year and noted that Attorney General Keith Ellison won reelection by 8,500 votes.
“Imagine how different this state could look right now if people had voted,” Tafoya said.
She questioned why those voters stayed home, suggesting they may have been young or older residents, hunting or fishing, or away on vacation.
“The point is, we've got to make this too big to rig,” Tafoya said, urging attendees to encourage everyone they know to participate in the election.
During her presentation, Tafoya played a compilation of campaign advertisements from her opponent, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, that repeatedly referenced President Donald Trump and his administration.
The clip featured repeated mentions of Trump's name, prompting Tafoya to argue that the campaign should focus on the candidates themselves and their records rather than on the president.
“I don't know, Trump. Peggy, Donald Trump isn't on the ballot. You and I are on the ballot, and only one of us let $9 billion walk out the door,” Tafoya said.
Her remark referred to allegations of extensive fraud involving Minnesota public assistance programs, an issue she has emphasized throughout her campaign. The $9 billion figure was presented as Tafoya's claim during the event.
Tafoya also discussed the national attention surrounding Minnesota's Senate race and encouraged supporters to continue reaching out to voters, including those who may have traditionally voted Democratic but are reconsidering their choices.
She said concerns about government spending, alleged fraud in public programs, border security and the direction of federal policy were central to her campaign.
Looking ahead to the 2028 election, Tafoya outlined her concerns about potential Democratic policy changes if the party were to control the White House and both chambers of Congress. She cited proposals involving the U.S. Supreme Court, the Senate filibuster, statehood, voting requirements, abortion policy and immigration.
Tafoya also thanked supporters for their contributions and encouragement, saying her family and the people behind her campaign had helped sustain her through the demands of the race.
“I feel like I'm 20 points down in the fourth quarter, and that's how hard I have to play right now,” she said, using a sports analogy to describe her campaign strategy.
Zeleznikar emphasizes close elections
Zeleznikar, who represents Minnesota House District 3B, also urged attendees to recognize the importance of individual votes, drawing on her own experience in two closely contested legislative races.
She won her first election in 2022 by 33 votes and was reelected in 2024 by 160 votes.
“Your vote matters,” Zeleznikar said, reflecting on the narrow margins that determined her victories.
Zeleznikar discussed her experience serving in the Minnesota Legislature, criticizing the state's approach to spending, taxation and legislation. She raised concerns about alleged fraud in state programs and what she described as policies that make it more difficult for businesses to operate in Minnesota.
She also addressed issues particularly relevant to Greater Minnesota, including vehicle registration costs, property taxes, workforce development, education and skilled trades.
Zeleznikar argued that a strong business environment helps sustain local schools, health care, roads and other community services. She called for renewed emphasis on reading proficiency and vocational education to prepare students for future employment.
“We gotta get back to the basics, folks,” she said, emphasizing what she described as the importance of strong families, communities and responsible government.
She also discussed the political significance of northern Minnesota's legislative districts and said the upcoming election could influence the balance of power in St. Paul.
Zeleznikar encouraged voters to make their voices heard and consider early voting rather than waiting until Election Day, noting that weather, illness and other unexpected circumstances can interfere with voting plans.
Encouraging participation
Both Tafoya and Zeleznikar stressed voter participation as a central message of their remarks. They encouraged attendees to speak with people in their communities, remind eligible voters about the election and make plans to cast their ballots.
The luncheon program began at noon following an 11:30 a.m. social hour. Attendees were served a breakfast buffet while hearing from the candidates and elected officials.
The gathering provided an opportunity for local Republican women to hear campaign perspectives from candidates seeking state and federal office, along with incumbent legislators discussing their experiences in government and the issues they believe will shape Minnesota's future.