06/15/2026
Sharing per request ... the most recent editorial article published in the Owatonna People's Press on 6/13/2026:
Friends, let’s talk about politics and leadership.
To be clear: I do not actually like politics. In fact, I have tried to keep clear of politics for much of my life. It always felt too complex and inauthentic, however since getting involved in the last few years, I’ve found an enormous community of like-minded people who genuinely want what I want: to make the world a better place.
Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous examples of the impact of leadership – both positive and negative. Not only is leadership the number one reason people stay with or leave an organization, leadership and the culture created is the number one determinant of an organization’s success. Having learned that lesson first-hand in organizations from small non-profits to large corporations, and in roles in county and state government, I was not surprised to begin seeing the impact of leadership in the political sphere and … alas … I discovered that I was no longer able to sit on the sidelines as an observer.
The impact of the “leadership” of Donald Trump is devastating for our country, and I no longer have a choice to sit silently by. Freedoms are being stripped from our marginalized communities, tax-paying immigrants are being vilified and terrorized by our government, women are losing the ability to make life-saving decisions about their own healthcare, hate is spewed constantly from the White House, voting rights are being stripped, people are being killed, fraud is rampant in federal spending (despite the rhetoric that keeps focusing on Minnesota’s fraud), the mainstream media has been gutted and sued to the point that we are no longer seeing impartial reporting or journalism, and facts are exceedingly more difficult to come by in daily conversations since social media is everyone’s constant unchecked news source. Things feel pretty bleak if I’m honest.
BUT … I have reason for hope.
Delegates from across the state gathered recently in Rochester to endorse our slate of state candidates and to set our DFL party priorities. The overwhelming energy to make positive change was contagious and more interestingly: 57% of delegates were first-time attendees – including our Steele County delegation, which was almost entirely newbies! People are unhappy with the current state of politics and our country, and they are getting involved in unprecedented numbers.
Let me say again: I do not enjoy politics, however I understand that it is critical for each of us to do our part to be informed and to get involved. Our democracy was established Of, By, and For The People and I believe that it is up to The People to get involved and to take ownership in the actions of our elected officials. Pay attention, check for credible sources, think objectively, and get involved. It is your duty as an American citizen and as my parents taught me: you have no right to complain if you’re not willing to do something to solve the problem.
No person or political party is perfect, but I believe wholeheartedly that the Minnesota DFL is working hard for policies that reflect my values. I want to see my values of freedom, liberty, fairness, justice, equity, integrity, stability, and sustainability reflected in every space where decisions that impact lives are made. The Minnesota DFL is supporting these values in meaningful ways and if that speaks to you, please join us! You do not need experience or to have all the answers … just curiosity and willingness to help.
Additionally, it’s important to understand that many of our elected officials genuinely have positive intentions and it is critical find solutions together – not to be adversarial. Regardless of the side of the aisle, to make positive changes we must approach issues with vulnerability and inquisitiveness, looking for solutions not for battles. Assume positive intent until you are shown otherwise.
And finally, I cannot forget to share love, support, and solidarity with our friends celebrating pride month. For those who are confused: Pride is about protecting the right of every person to exist safely, openly, and freely and to be sure that no one feels that death could be an easier choice than being themselves. Sincerely – Happy Pride Month to all. We see you and we celebrate with you and I’ll always have free hugs available for anyone that needs one. (Just ask!)
Get connected to the Steele County DFL at [email protected].
Respectfully submitted by Melinda Estey. Current chair of the Steele County DFL.
