Duluth, MN (Northland’s NewsCenter) — Eighth District Congressional Candidate Rick Nolan visited Duluth’s International Air Show on Sunday and called out Congressman Chip Cravaack for his positions on aviation issues.
Nolan says the air show highlights the importance of the aviation industry as well as the strength of the Minnesota Air Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing.
Because Congressman Cravaack co-sponsored the FAA Reauthorization and Reform Act which would have eliminated air service to regional airports, Nolan believes he doesn’t understand the importance of the aviation industry to the region.
Nolan says the small rural airports like the one in Hibbing, Brainerd and International Falls have a crucial economic development impact.
He says Cravaack’s positions on aviation issues could have cost the state thousands of jobs.
“Our Congressman Cravaack voted to cut transportation funding by 1/3 including the [Northern Lights Express Rail] from here to the Twin Cities, and the [Northstar Commuter Rail] line along the western edge of this district and or course all the essential air services,” Nolan said.
If elected to congress, Nolan says he intends to go on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee an Aviation subcommittee.
Meanwhile, Cravaack’s Campaign Adviser, Ben Golnik released at statement in response to Nolan’s criticism.
“Former Congressman Rick Nolan has resorted to distorting facts in a shameless attempt to score political points. This is a typical move from a career politician who is desperate to return to Washington.
Chip Cravaack, a former commercial airline pilot, led the House working group which was charged with crafting a long-term FAA reauthorization after years of gridlock. Importantly, Cravaack worked to ensure that no Minnesota airports lost Essential Air Service.
Chip Cravaack will continue to focus on bringing more jobs back to the 8th District by supporting pro-growth tax reform to aid small businesses and reducing regulatory barriers to economic growth.”
http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/news/local/Nolan-Calls-Out-Cravaack-for-Position-on-Aviation-Issues-170916721.html