Amy Klobuchar

Amy Klobuchar (D) is running for re-election in the Senate. Senator Klobuchar was first elected to the Senate in 2006 and was the first woman Senator to represent Minnesota. During her tenure, Senator Klobuchar has gained national recognition. In 2008, she was named "Best in Congress" by Working Mother Magazine for her work on behalf of working families. The Washington Post called her a "rising star". She has gained a reputation as a serious legislator and women's rights groups know that they can count on her as a strong leader for women's rights issues.

Background:

• Former partner in two of Minnesota's leading law firms
• Prosecutor for Hennepin County, which includes Minneapolis, 1998-2006
• Former President of the Minnesota County Attorneys Association
• Elected to U.S. Senate, 2006

Klobuchar's Positions on Key Issues:

• Klobuchar is a strong supporter of women's reproductive rights and has a 100% rating from NARAL Pro Choice America
• She is one of two women on the Judiciary Committee where she voted for the Supreme Court Appointments of Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor
• Defender of lesbian and gay rights, she opposed a Constitutional Amendment defining marriage and supported the Employment Nondiscrimination Act prohibiting discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation
• Outspoken on pay equity issues and a cosponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act

Prospects: Excellent

Opponents: Norm Coleman, an incumbent who lost his seat to now-Senator Al Franken in 2008, has confirmed that he has no intention of challenging Senator Klobuchar. Rumored candidate Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek has stated he has no interest in running for the seat in 2012. Another possible challenger is Bill Guidera, a Fox News executive and Republican fundraiser.

Other Endorsements: Emily’s List, Women’s Campaign Forum

Website: http://www.amyklobuchar.com/