To the Editor:

We are graduates of Fairmont High School, graduates of the University of St. Thomas, and former chairpersons of the Minnesota College Republicans.

Toward the end of high school, we became immersed in the world of politics. Not only were we watching news coverage on 24-hour cable networks, visiting Washington, D.C., and reading about the issues affecting our country, we were participating in the electoral process, by making phone calls for candidates and attending local party functions.

As young adults, we continue to be involved because we care about our country, know that we face many problems, but understand that as Americans we can sit down, come together and get the job done.

In 2010, our attention was drawn to a candidate in Florida for the U.S. Senate – a young, energetic, former Florida House Speaker, Marco Rubio. Although he was viewed as longshot for the GOP nomination at first, we were immediately drawn to his inspiring story and love for America.

Marco was led to a life of public service because he understood that our country was special, and that if we did not change course, the next generation would be left to inherit a country worse off than before. Rubio went on to clinch the nomination, and won the election in November 2010.

While Rubio’s story epitomizes the American Dream, his views on many major issues and his record in the U.S. Senate are just as stellar. Marco has a perfect pro-life record; is a strong supporter of our Second Amendment rights; and also receives high marks from the Heritage Foundation and Americans for Prosperity. He has consistently opposed the Iran Nuclear Deal in Senate, understands the complexities of foreign affairs issues, and led the effort to protect taxpayers from losses accrued by Obamacare healthcare exchanges. On immigration, Senator Rubio believes that the border must be secured, that an e-verify system must be put in place, those with a criminal record should be deported, and current immigration laws should be enforced.

Not only is Rubio a strong conservative, but he’s electable. Rubio consistently beats Hillary Clinton in the polls. No other candidate can say the same. We have to nominate someone who can win the election. If you don’t win, you can’t govern.

It is easy to be frustrated – even angry – with what is going on in our country right now. Most of us are. However, it is simply not enough to say that you are going to put our country on the right track. We need a leader who actually gives solutions to the problems. Rubio does that.

No other candidate can articulate what it means to be a conservative better than Marco Rubio. His message is already reaching people who typically do not vote for Republicans: young people, minorities, those struggling to make ends meet, independents, city dwellers – you name it.

Marco Rubio offers our party the best path forward. We are proud to support him and we hope that you will join us in caucusing for him at your precinct caucuses on March 1.

Andrew and Angie Hasek