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Talking Points: Cravaack's Balancing Act

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Many of us struggle with balancing family and work responsibilities, but it's been a different balancing act for Minnesota Congressman Chip Cravaack.

He is running for re-election in Minnesota's 8th Congressional District. But Cravaack faces the daunting prospect of working in Washington, living in Minnesota and commuting to see his wife and sons -- who are age 8 and 10 -- in New Hampshire. The move came after his wife's promotion.

The move has some critics wondering how Cravaack can handle it all. Opponents are expected to attack Cravaack on the issue.

"It's not unlike working for the airlines and being a military reservist," responded Cravaack on WCCO Sunday Morning. "I would come home, switch uniforms, go out and do active duty in the Navy for four or five days.

"We are used to this lifestyle. I had to support my wife. She does very well at what she does. She is a career woman," Cravaack continued. "She tried to commute from the east coast. It just didn't work. Our kids suffered for it. We decided we are parents first, and we are going to do what is in the best interests of our children."

Another hurdle Cravaack faces is that he doesn't know what his district's boundaries will be, but there at least he has company. A five-judge panel will be announcing new boundaries on all of Minnesota's congressional districts by Feb. 21.

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