A week ago, they shared tears with all other Minnesota DFLers over the death of their political hero, U.S. Sen. Paul Wellstone.

When Wellstone first embarked on the campaign trail, he came to Mower County to win over local Democrats in the staunchly pro-labor city of Austin.

Dick Lang and Len Miller were among those to embrace the fiery Carleton College professor, who went on to win election to the U.S. Senate in 1990 and again in 1996.

Last week, many mourned Wellstone's death as the result of a plane crash. Today, Miller and Lang are putting that sad event behind them and returning to the political contest.

Miller, the two-term 4th District Mower County Commissioner, is being challenged by Lang, the Austin 3rd Ward city council member.

Here are the candidates' profiles in their own words:

Dick Lang

Prior elective office experience: Six years on Austin City Council

Profession: Self-employed for 42 years

Why are you seeking this office?

I will not vote to raise your county taxes as long as the county sits on an overly large undesignated fund surplus of $36 million.

What is the top priority?

Better cooperative between city and county government.

How would you fix any problems?

Better financial management of the county's funds and improved reporting to the public.

What are your thoughts on public service?

We need to set written annual goals for the Mower County Board.

Len Miller

Prior elective office experience: Eight years on the Mower County Board

Profession: Business consultant

Why are you seeking this office?

It has been an honor to serve the people in the 4th District. I have gone the extra mile to represent the county and would like to continue serving.

What is the top priority?

The top priority is to provide high quality services to the citizens of Mower County in an efficient and economical way.

What solutions do you offer?

Open government with citizen input.

What are your thoughts

on public service?

Public service is an honor. We are elected to represent people. I have worked hard to include citizen input and be inclusive.

I have also worked with other governmental units and the private sector for the good of all.