Republican Minnesota

Stand by...

2006-03-11T21:35:00.000-08:00

CHANGES TO REPUBLICAN MINNESOTA

2006-02-18T10:01:00.000-08:00

Republican Minnesota will be dormant for the next week.

RNC '08 in Minneapolis

2006-02-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

Minneapolis was on a list of cities the RNC asked to bid for the 2008 convention.

This would be great for the Twin Cities area. A large amount of cash would be thrown into the Minnesota economy from all the media, delegates and alternates and the fines paid by protestors.

Walz to announce Sunday

2006-02-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

Tim Walz, who many DFLers think could unseat Rep. Gutknect, will formally announce his candidacy this weekend. However, it should be noted that the aforementioned DFLers may be delusional.

Here's a quick peak at what Walz thinks.

"Freedom of speech has its limitations on this, and that that is one of them, that is you cannot just say whatever you think." - Tim Walz (DFL Press Conference, St. Paul, Minnesota, February 16, 2006)

Wilde things happen

2006-02-16T17:53:00.000-08:00

If you listened very carefully today you could hear a loud “WTF" shouted over the blogsphere.

Peter Idusogie, host of Inside Minnesota Politics will be running against Klobuchar and Bell. Leftist windbag Wendy Wilde has been added as a new host to IMP.

My return

2006-02-16T16:15:00.000-08:00

My computer crashed and I just got it back. I will play catch up tonight.

KvM Responds

2006-02-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

KvM responds to MN Publius' claim that Klobuchar didn't lie.

Looks like the boys at MN Publius need to look at the facts.
Kennedy did vote for the COPS program.

SNAP! In your FACE Zack!

SD House passes abortion ban

2006-02-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

In a 47-22 vote, the South Dakota House passed a bill banning abortions.

Marriage amendment difficulties

2006-02-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

The following is a post from a month ago when it looked as if the marriage amendment would not be on the ballot. Check out KvM and Wind Beneath the Right Wing for specifics.

"But it should be noted that this death takes place in the shadow of new life, the sunrise of a new world; a world that our beloved comrade gave his life to protect and nourish." - Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan

Wind Beneath the Right Wing and KvM are reporting on the potential death of the marriage amendment in the state legislature.

While many Minnesotans support such a measure, there are not enough votes in the DFL controlled senate to get the measure to a floor vote. This move is sure to hurt the already struggling Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson with his own reelection bid. Many in his home were upset with his decision to force a shutdown. They are also upset over the lack of movement of the Marriage Amendment, something he could easily get to the floor.

The death of the marriage amendment could be the best thing for GOP candidates in the 2006 legislative races. In many swing districts voter may be motivated to kick out their DFL legislators for not supporting it.

In Greater Minnesota, many conservative Democrats may have to chose between the party's view and the view of their constituents.

So look at is this way, in the shadow of the Marriage Amendment's death comes in the sunrise of the GOP controlled legislature.

Olympics Update

2006-02-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

If pissing off North Star Politics was an Olympic sport, I'd be a gold medalist.

Well, it looks like I now have competition.

Kool-Aid Report

Dump Kline bloggers must dump the lies

2006-02-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

Whoever runs Dump John Kline needs to find the truth before posting next time.

More on Hatch, the no-show

2006-02-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I posted on how the Hatch campaign may be in trouble, based off of Hatch's attendance (or lack thereof) at recent DFL candidate forums.

The headline of MPR's story on yesterday's event was "Hatch keeping low profile as competitors score points at business forum."

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Doran, Kelley and Lourey have now appeared at several candidate forums together, but they have yet to share the stage with the fourth Democrat in the race, Attorney General Mike Hatch. Hatch's office said the Business Democrats' event conflicted with a conference call on a prospective pharmaceutical lawsuit. But some Democrats are questioning whether it's part of a deliberate strategy to stay above the fray.

Blois Olson from the newsletter Politics in Minnesota says Hatch needs to ramp up his campaign activity.

"He is the perceived front-runner, but the more he doesn't do, the less he is the front-runner," according to Olson. "And I think the Rose Garden strategy is, you sit in the garden and you smell the roses while everybody else enjoys the bad weather outside, and I think that while he is the front-runner, he has to start acting more like a front-runner and not be so publicly shy."

Olson says Hatch has only a bare-bones campaign operation. Hatch did raise half a million dollars last year, surpassing all of the other Democrats except Doran, who lent his campaign $1.8 million. Hatch's campaign says the attorney general focuses first on his full-time job. (Source: MPR, Feb. 8, 2006)
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Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Steve Kelley, Mike Hatch, Kelly Doran, Sheila Kiscaden, Becky Lourey

Klobuchar reaches new low

2006-02-09T07:56:00.000-08:00

Ms. Amy Klobuchar has reached a new low, lying about Mark Kennedy's voting record.

She claimed that Kennedy voted against the Community Oriented Policing Services (C.O.P.S.) programs.

The truth (Thanks to KvM): He supported it in some fashion at least four times.

I thought Klobuchar would have known that lying is not acceptable. Perhaps that is why she is so afraid of debating Kennedy and Bell. When she's against the wall, she'll lie through her teeth to make her opponent look bad.

I think the Kennedy campaign should demand an apology.

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

Note to Doran: Buy your own radio station

2006-02-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

Kelly Doran has renewed his tired call for WCCO to can Gov. Pawlenty's weekly radio show.

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In a letter to WCCO station executives, DFL Gubernatorial Candidate Kelly Doran's campaign today renewed calls for the radio station to cease airing Governor Tim Pawlenty's Weekly Radio Show, contending that as a legally qualified candidate for office, Pawlenty's free air time constitutes an illegal corporate campaign contribution under state law.

"Our legal counsel tells us this free airtime is a violation of election laws," said Doran Communications Director Tonya Tennessen. (Source: Doran/Kiscaden Press Release, Feb. 8, 2006)
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An "illegal corporate campaign contribution?" I think WCCO knows the law in this area a little better than Doran's legal department.

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Officials with WCCO declined an interview request but issued a statement saying they believe Pawlenty is not a legally qualified candidate, and they will continue to air the show. Pawlenty also legally there's no reason to stop doing the show.

"There's established legal standards for when you're a candidate. They're there for a reason. It's settled law and I think we should follow the law. We also said we would differ to WCCO's judgment on it and they agree," Pawlenty said. (Source: MPR, Feb. 3, 2006)
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Doran made this same claim a week or so ago. He must receivedieved little press if he renewed his call a week later.

This claim shows how desperate the Doran campaign really is, now they're grasping at straws. If Kelly Doran is so concerned about airtime, why doesn't he go out and buy a radio station and do his own weekly radio show?

Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Kelly Doran

DFLers.org retooled

2006-02-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

The DFL just gave DFLers.org a make over.

What's new besides the layout?

The have changed it from a forum to discuss DFL events, politics and so forth, to a DFL attack blog.

If I were them I would be using it to promote DFLers, not to take cheap shots at their opponents. But it's their money.

Bottom line: It's a MDE wannabe blog. If I was MNGOP Watch, I'd be worried. They're crowding in on your turf.

Olympics

2006-02-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

If pissing off North Star Politics was an Olympic sport, I'd be a gold medalist.

Today
I'm a sexist

Switcheroo trifecta?

2006-02-08T11:17:00.000-08:00

Could Mike Hatch be the third DFL candidate to switch races this cycle?

Last September Kelly Doran switched from the Senate race to the Governors race after his candidacy failed to take off.

Last week, Patty Wetterling announced that she will run for Congress in the 6th, after stating several times that she would not do so. She had turned down a previous offer from Hatch to run as her Lt. Gov. candidate.

And then there's Mike Hatch. He has skipped the last three DFL Gubernatorial candidate forums (Jan. 15, 2006; Jan. 30, 2006; Feb. 8, 2006). He even left himself an exit from the gubernatorial race and an entrance into the Attorney General's race.

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If he doesn't get close, he said, 'I would run for attorney general. It's a job I love. I like to think I'm pretty good at it.' (Source: Star Tribune, January 25, 2006)
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If Hatch were to drop out (I believe he's the most likely of the candidates to do so before caucuses) it would really shake things up. Not only will I have fun watching the DFL in-fighting in the 6th, 2nd and the gubernatorial race, but also in the Attorney general's race.

Will Hatch drop out?

Only time will tell.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Steve Kelley, Mike Hatch, Kelly Doran, Becky Lourey

MNGOP on Ciresi

2006-02-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

"With today's announcement by Mike Ciresi that he will not enter the U.S. Senate race, the DFL elite has made clear they will put forward another ultra-liberal in the mold of Mark Dayton.

"I once again call on Amy Klobuchar to end her poll driven, photo op candidacy and begin to debate the important issues facing Minnesota." - Ron Carey (Source: MNGOP Press Release, Feb. 8, 2006)

What can Sesame Street teach us about the left?

2006-02-08T09:45:00.001-08:00

This is brought to you by the letters "R" and "M" and by the number "3."

Which one of these things is not like the other? Which one of these things just doesn't belong?

1. Wellstone! memorial
2. Reagan funeral
3. Scott-King funeral

That's right, the answer is number two, the Reagan funeral. Unlike the other two options, the funeral for the greatest president of the 20th century did not turn into a political event.

Of all places politics should be kept at the door, it should be at memorial/funeral services. All that happens is the event being overshadowed by heated political rhetoric.

Ciresi pushed out?

2006-02-08T07:13:00.000-08:00

The question is:
What was Ciresi promised to keep him out of the race? Obviously he wants to be a senator. I'd say he was promised a free ride in 2008. Sorry Al.

And now, reaction from Democrats:

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Obviously a HUGE boon for the Klobuchar campaign. (Source: MN Publius, Feb. 7, 2006)
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No shit.

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Ciresi's decision hurts Bell more than it helps. On one hand, he doesn't have to do battle with two well-funded DFL opponents, a tough task considering his relatively small fundraising numbers. On the other, Bell misses out on the benefits of a Ciresi entrance, which would have taken away from Amy's frontrunner image and put media focus back on the fight for the DFL endorsement. (Source: DFL Senate, Feb. 7, 2006)
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Actually, it helps Ford Bell. The way I look at it is that Ciresi would have taken a few Klobuchar supporters with him, as well as many,if not most, of Bell's supporters. Also, Ciresi would fair much better in a primary than Bell. Ciresi's candidacy would have ended Bell's run.

Bottom line: The queenmaking continues and now we have two spoiled rich Democrats on the ballot in 2006 and not three.

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

Loose lips at the DFL

2006-02-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

The DFL has shut down it's Yahoo! Group for DFL State Central Committee members following a post on MDE.

I guess MDE is not considered to be a friend of the DFL. Who knew?

Fun with fallacies II

2006-02-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

Last month, I posted my first "Fun with fallacies" (hat tip to KAR).

The boys at Klobuchar's Machine are getting a little upset over Kennedy's acceptance of a debate, which gives us today's edition of "Fun with fallacies."

Burden of Proof and Red Herring

"Note to KvM: Your comments are turned off. So don't talk to us about a fair debate."

This constitutes two fallacies, the Burden of Proof and Red Herring.

The Burden of Proof fallacy occurs when there is an attempt to place the burden of proof on the wrong side. In this instance, the burden of proof lies on MN Publius (Klobuchar) since they are repudiating KvM's claims. In their post, MN Publius is trying to turn things around and put KvM on the offensive.

The Red Herring occurs when an issue which is not relevant is brought up in order to distract from the main point. It is a classic "against the wall" defense tactic.

Note to MN Publius

2006-02-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

A note to the boys at MN Publius:

Stop blaming Amy Klobuchar's unwillingness to debate on Mark Kennedy.

This is not a "manufactured controversy brought to you by the Kennedy campaign" as you suggest.

Why is Klobuchar so afraid to take on Kennedy?

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

The debate over the debate

2006-02-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

KvM has a great post on the debate over the debate.

Teaser: Nick Coleman is upset.

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

Hatch Flip-Flop of the week #12

2006-02-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Mike Hatch Flip-Flops on "Revolving Door" Between Insurance Industry and Commerce Department

After Long Criticizing “Revolving Door” Between Insurance Industry And Commerce Department, Hatch Became Chairman Of Insurance Company. “In what should be a short-lived job, former Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Hatch has been named chairman of a troubled insurance company, First United. … Hatch was Minnesota’s Commerce commissioner for nine years, during which time be [sic] decried the ‘revolving door’ between insurance companies and the Commerce Department, which regulates insurers. He laughingly recalled those comments Tuesday. ‘Nine years of “revolving door” and now this,’ he said, adding his term as First United’s chairman will end with the company’s sale.” (Steve Brook, “Hatch Named Chairman Of Troubled Insurance Firm Pending Its Planned Sale,” St. Paul Pioneer Press, March 20, 1991)

Tags: Mike Hatch

Wetterling Round-up

2006-02-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

I've been ill today, which I why I haven't blogged until now.

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“With her deeply disappointing decision to break her word and run for Congress again in the Sixth Congressional District, Patty Wetterling sadly became just another politician today.

“During her brief U.S. Senate campaign, Patty Wetterling said repeatedly that she would not run again in the Sixth District. Patty Wetterling has acknowledged that she cannot win in the Sixth because she is too far to the left of most people in the district. Today’s announcement will no doubt dishearten many who took Patty Wetterling at her word.”

-Ron Carey, Chairman of the Republican Party of Minnesota (Source: MNGOP Press Release, Feb. 3, 2006)
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"I’m not going to run for the 6^th District. The numbers show me that. . . I will not win.”

--Patty Wetterling, Pioneer Press, April 20, 2005

“Tinklenberg on Thursday said Wetterling had assured him repeatedly that she would stay in the Senate race. ‘I take her at her word,’ he said.”

Star Tribune, January 20, 2006

Circle Pines, MN – The Phil Krinkie for Congress Campaign questioned the credibility of Patty Wetterling today after she announced she is running for Congress in the 6 ^th District. Wetterling has made several strong public statements claiming she would not run for the 6^th District Congressional seat, now she’s going back on her word.

“If we can’t trust Patty Wetterling to keep her word about her political plans, how can voters in the 6^th District trust her promises during the campaign?” said Phil Krinkie. “First she said she couldn’t win in the 6^th District, so she ran for the Senate. Now she realizes she can’t win the Senate race so she’s back to the 6^thDistrict. What’s next?”

Krinkie also noted he is the most prepared to face off against Wetterling if she becomes the Democrat nominee because he has consistently led the Republican field in fundraising and has the most election experience, having won reelection seven times over 14 years.

With $266,000 cash on hand, Krinkie leads all candidates (Democrat and Republican) heading into the 2006 election year. He is the only Congressional challenger candidate in the country to be endorsed by the Club for Growth and the Free Enterprise Fund PAC, two nationally recognized pro-growth, free enterprise organizations. (Source: Krinkie for Congress Press Release, Feb. 3, 2006)
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Tags: Patty Wetterling, Elwyn Tinklenberg, Phil Krinkie

RM Exclusive: College Democrats of America using Taxpayer Resources

2006-02-02T13:08:00.000-08:00

I was having a very slow day, so I thought I'd bum around the internet.

While pursuing through the College Democrats of Minnesota website, I found a link to the National College Democrats website, complete with flyers meant for distribution. Following MDE's lead with this some months back, I decided to look into the properties of the files.

These files were made made by Alex Nock while he was using a computer at the United States House of Pepresentatives.

Here's a list of what was made on our dime:
Recruitment flyer
Social Security and Young People
2006 Bush Budget

From my research, I have found that, most recently, Alex Nock worked for the House Committee on Education and the workforc e. In the past, Nock worked in a communications capacity for Rep. Dale Kildee (MI-5) . Kildee is currently a ranking member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Boehner elected new majority leader

2006-02-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

Last month, I voiced my support for Rep. John Boehner in his quest to become the next House Majority Leader.

He was elected to that position today in a 122-109 vote (on the second ballot).

Tags: John Boehner

What Will Wetterling Do?

2006-02-02T12:24:00.000-08:00

I hope she runs. That way we can see ads with quotes like this on tv this fall.

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“There is absolutely no chance whatsoever that she's running for the 6th district. She's running for the U.S. Senate. She's raised $1 million from 13,000 donors. Any speculation that she is not running is wishful thinking on behalf of her opponents[.]” (“Minnesota: Wetterling Camp Vows They're In To Stay,” The Hotline, September 28, 2005)

Tags: Patty Wetterling, Elwyn Tinklenberg

Vikings Update - 3 of 4 have court dates

2006-02-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

Court dates were set today for three of the four Minnesota Vikings implicated in the Sex Boat party last October.

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Quarterback Daunte Culpepper and running back Moe Williams agreed to be tried together starting April 18. Defensive back Fred Smoot's trial date is May 2.

Further hearings on legal motions delayed the setting of a trial date for the fourth defendant, offensive lineman Bryant McKinnie. (Source: Star Tribune, Feb. 2, 2006)
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Tags: Minnesota Vikings, Daunte Culpepper

MN Publius' double standard

2006-02-02T08:04:00.000-08:00

Here, Matt at Klobuchar's Machine touts the fact that if the DFL senate field's numbers are combined, they cumulatively out-raise Kennedy.

And here Zack touts the fact that in the fourth quarter, El Tinklenberg out-raised any single GOP candidate in the 6th.

So, for Zack's pleasure using Matt's accounting method, in the 6th District race Tinklenberg got outraised by a factor of 2.35 in the fourth quarter.

Protestors

2006-02-02T07:34:00.000-08:00

I find it odd that the left would protest a speech about adding 70,000 teachers over five years to aid in teaching advanced science and math courses in an attempt to make American workers more competitive in the global market place.

Am I sexist?

2006-02-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

No, just damn sexy.

Does anyone get the idea that, you know, North Star Politics might be a giant moron.

Oh, by the way, I just downloaded "Girl Fight" on iTunes.

First flip-flops, not complete B* S*

2006-02-01T11:05:00.000-08:00

John Kerry first gave us his litany of flip-flops, no he's on to bigger and better things, just bulling things out of his ass.

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Sen. John Kerry claimed this morning on NBC TODAY that 53% of America's children do not graduate from high school -- a claim that raised eyebrows in the NBC control room, sources tell the DRUDGE REPORT.

Kerry made the comments after host Katie Couric asked the former presidential candidate about Bush's State of the Union call to train 70,000 additional teachers in math and science.

COURIC: He wanted to train 70,000 additional teachers in math and science.

KERRY: That's terrific. But 53 percent of our children don't graduate from high school. Kids don't have after-school programs... He didn't ask America to sacrifice anything to achieve great goals and the biggest example is making the tax cut permanent for the wealthiest people in America. The average American struggles to find time to take carry of families, working two or three jobs... It's a disgrace. He did not tell the real state of the union.

Kerry's 53% claim conflicts with a recent press release from the U.S. Census Bureau: "High School Graduation Rates Reach All-Time High"

And the Census Bureau's own website states: 85.9 Percent Of Americans Aged 20-24 Are High School Graduates. (U.S. Census Bureau Website, www.census.gov , Accessed 2/1/06) (Source: Drudge Report, Feb. 1, 2006)
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Breaking news: Cat fight in the second district

2006-02-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

MDE has the goods.

Sharon Marko (Polo) is to take on Coleen Rowley.

Blois Olson must be happy about that one.

Tags: Coleen Rowley, Sharon Marko

GOP fundraising numbers - Update

2006-02-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, January 31, was the deadline for campaign finance forms to be turned in to the appropriate agencies.

Here are how the numbers stack up (hint: the Republicans faired better than the Democrats):

RNC vs. DNC

At the end of 2005, the RNC had $34 million in the bank, compared to the DNC's $5 million. Many Democratic Congressional leaders aren't too happy about that one. (Source: Drudge Report, Jan. 30, 2005)

The GOP's $29 million lead is a ratio of 6.8 to 1.

Keep up the good work Howard.

Pawlenty vs. DFL field

Tim Pawlenty: Raised $811,696, On hand $721,163
Mike Hatch: Raised $501,683, On hand $401,714
Steve Kelley: Raised $250,000, On hand- $34,836
Becky Lourey: Raised $63,174, On hand $5,003
Kelly Doran*: Raised $4,714, Self loaned $1.85 million, In debt (on hand) $1,019,738
* Denotes a self-financed candidates who is throwing away money.
(Source: Star Tribune, Feb. 1, 2006)

Wow, clearly Doran, Lourey and Kelley have a spending problem. Kelley and Lourey aren't felt with too much cash. Doran is spending way to much, and has nothing to show for it. I would expect a man with that kind of business background to realize when he's made a bad investment.

Hatch, who has been raising money since Jan. 1st, 2005, should have faired much better. Oh wait I forgot. He's alienated most DFLers.

In response to Kelly Doran's numbers, Chairman Ron Carey had this to say:

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"With today's dreary fundraising numbers, it is now clear that Kelly Doran's content-free candidacy is not connecting with Minnesotans. Since jumping into the governor's race in September after failing in his bid for the U.S. Senate, Doran has raised a paltry $4,700.

"It appears Kelly Doran is just about the only person who wants to see Kelly Doran as governor." (Source: MNGOP Press Release, Jan. 31, 2006)
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Gov. Pawlenty has the advantage here. When his opponents are out fundraising, he'll be out shaking hands and kissing babies.

Kennedy vs. Klobuchar

Mark Kennedy raised $3.65 million in 2005 and ended the year with $2.65 million (Source: Mark Kennedy '06 Press Release, Jan. 30, 2006) compared to Amy Klobuchar's $1.73 million in the bank. (Source: MDE via the Associated Press, Jan. 31, 2006)

MNGOP vs. DFL

The GOP currently has $0 Abramoff-related funds while the DFL has $9000 in Abramoff-related funds from 2002 (which it refuses to give back).

# # #

Now I know that money is only part of the battle, but this will gives the GOP a clear advantage going into 2006.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Steve Kelley, Mike Hatch, Kelly Doran, Becky Lourey, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, MN Senate 2006

On the bonding bill

2006-02-01T07:56:00.000-08:00

Recently, a few bloggers have said Gov. Pawlenty’s proposal for the 2006 Bonding Bill could spell the end of his conservative base’s support.

What these bloggers don’t realize is that there is actually some good Government pork.

I am a fiscal conservative, but I look at Government pork like fat (meaning the fat in food, not the fat around your waist). In recent years much discussion has been paid to the area of “Good fats” and “Bad Fats.” Good fats are essential to our every day living. They act as the basic building blocks in our body. “Good fats” are much stronger than “bad fats” and help to create a stronger foundation for our bodies.

The same works for government spending. One such area is education, which helps to provide a strong base for the development of the future generations of Minnesotans. Higher education spending works in much the same way. Case-in-point, Gov. Pawlenty’s proposal for the University of Minnesota campus in Rochester. A research University near Minnesota’s premier (and one of the world’s best) medical facilities will help to keep Minnesota a leader in the bio-tech sector for years to come.

Another area which I believe classifies as good pork is Minnesota’s infrastructure. A simple fact is that it’s easier to attract business and to grow communities when there is a strong infrastructure. We all complain about the conditions of our road, which are the responsibility of the government. Public transportation can help to revitalize areas which have been hurt economically, although I believe it can be done at a much lower price.

So remember, not all Government pork is bad. Some of these projects represent an investment in our state’s future. An investment from which we will have many rewards in the years to come.

Jonathon Sharkey arrested on 2 felony warrants

2006-01-31T09:48:00.000-08:00

We may have to wait until 2010 for a vampire governor.

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Jonathon "The Impaler" Sharkey, who announced in Princeton Jan. 13 that he was running for governor, was arrested at his Princeton apartment about 8:30 Monday evening.

Princeton officer Todd Frederick initiated a search yesterday afternoon that led to the discovery of two active felony warrants from Marion County (Indianapolis) in Indiana.

The 2005 warrants were issued in May for stalking and in September for escape on a $100,000 bond.

Sharkey is being held in the Mille Lacs County Jail in Milaca and Indiana authorities have indicated they will come to pick him up, said Princeton Police Chief Dave Warneke Tuesday morning. (Source: Princeton Union-Eagle, Jan. 31, 2006)
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Hatch flip-flop of the week, #11

2006-01-31T09:38:00.000-08:00

Flip-Flop of the Week: Volume 1, Issue 11

Mike Hatch Flip-Flops On Deregulation

“Hatch says that deregulation increases the potential for abuse and therefore necessitates aggressive regulation. He also believes the country has made a ‘grave mistake’ by initiating deregulation so dramatically. ‘When I came in here three years ago, I was a free trader,’ he says. ‘I’m three years older now.’” (Eben Shapiro, “Is Mike Hatch Too Tough?” Minneapolis-St Paul CityBusiness, May 28, 1986)

Tags: Mike Hatch

Pawlenty's 2005 numbers

2006-01-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

$808,371 raised, $721,163 cash on hand

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For 2005 the Pawlenty for Governor Committee reported receipts totaling $808,371 and finished the year with $721,163 cash on hand. The contributions received set a record for money raised from contributors by candidates for governor or incumbent governors in a year leading up to an election, since the current campaign finance system was enacted.

"Minnesotans across the state are supporting my agenda of bringing accountability to state government and these results reflect that. I really appreciate their support, it's very encouraging," Governor Pawlenty said. (Source: Pawlenty for Governor Press Release, Jan. 31, 2006)
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Tags: Tim Pawlenty

Pawlenty and the "puck"

2006-01-31T07:53:00.000-08:00

Gov. Pawlenty laughs off his mispronunciation of the word "puck" at the Wild home opener this season.

Click here for the video.

Once again, you'd never see Hatch, Doran or any of the rest of the field like this on TV.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty

Dayton to support filibuster

2006-01-31T07:02:00.000-08:00

Sen. Dayton will be voting for a filibuster on Alito today.

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Sen. Mark Dayton will vote in favor of a Democratic filibuster of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito.

That's according to his spokeswoman, Semonti (sim-MONT'-ee) Mustaphi (mus-STAHF'-ee). The vote is expected this afternoon.

But senators from both parties expect Alito to easily reach the 60 votes needed to end any threat of a filibuster.

Dayton, a Minnesota Democrat, declined an interview request ahead of the vote. On Friday, Dayton questioned the wisdom of a filibuster but said he was undecided. (Source: AP, Jan. 31, 2006)
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It's a real shame he's not running for reelection.

Tags: Mark Dayton, Filibuster

Wetterling says no to Hatch, still mulling congressional run

2006-01-31T06:50:00.000-08:00

Patty Wetterling has turned down Mike Hatch's offer of the Lt. Governor slot on Hatch's ticket yesterday.

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Children's safety advocate Patty Wetterling has turned down Attorney General Mike Hatch's offer to be his running mate on the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party ticket next fall.

But Wetterling is still considering running for Congress.

Hatch, a DFL candidate for governor, said Monday that Wetterling called him over the weekend and told him she would not run for lieutenant governor because she did not believe that would be the most effective way for her to promote the interests of children.

"I agreed that lieutenant governor is not the best office to pursue children's issues," Hatch said. (Source: Pioneer Press, Jan. 31, 2006)
##

Did you catch it? If not I'll repeat it.

"I agreed that lieutenant governor is not the best office to pursue children's issues," Hatch said.

Translation: "I got shot down, big time."

Wetterling is still exploring the possibility of a congressional run.

Tags: Patty Wetterling, Mike Hatch

Kennedy's 2005 Numbers

2006-01-30T13:43:00.000-08:00

In 2005, Mark Kennedy raised just north of $3.65 million, spending roughly $1 million of that, leaving the GOPer (who unlike his DFL counterpart faces no primary opponent ) with over $2.65 million on hand.

No word yet on Ms. Klobuchar's numbers.

Tags: Mark Kennedy, Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

RM Exclusive: Pres. Bush coming to Minnesota

2006-01-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

The AP has just confirmed that Pres. Bush will be in Minnesota on Thursday.

Bush will be speaking at an event in Maplewood to promote the initatives launched in the State of the Union speech.

More Klobuchar dissent

2006-01-30T08:21:00.000-08:00

With all the DFLers speaking out against Amy Klobuchar in the past week, the time couldn't be better for Mike Ciresi to get in the race.

##

"Lynn Soetebier, a DFL activist in St. Paul who intends to be a convention delegate this summer, said she's not ready to accept Klobuchar - or anyone - as the front-runner. 'I want to know more,' Soetebier said. 'From what I hear now, it's politics as usual. I'm not hearing anything different from her, I don't hear that she's going to do what I want.'" (Patrick Condon, "Democrat Bell Struggles For Standing In Senate Contest," The Associated Press, January 30, 2006)
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Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell, MN Senate 2006

Dem Blogger: Get behind the queenmaking

2006-01-30T07:41:00.000-08:00

A recent entry over at Yowling from the Fence Post is calling on Democrats to get behind the queenmaking, saying that Amy Klobuchar is their best chance at victory against Mark Kennedy and that Ford Bell is nuts.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell

Pawlenty ahead in latest poll

2006-01-30T06:52:00.000-08:00

Rasmussen Reports, which use a more accurate method than other recent polls, has released it's first poll of the year for Minnesota.

47% - Pawlenty
44% - Hatch

Oh yeah, I did I mention that Rasmussen was the most accurate polling group in 2004?

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Rasmussen Reports was the nation's most accurate polling firm during the Presidential election and the only one to project both Bush and Kerry's vote total within half a percentage point of the actual outcome. (Source: Rasmussen Reports, Jan. 28, 2006)
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Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Mike Hatch

Dems won't block Alito

2006-01-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

Senate Democrats won't go through with filibuster. Alito to be confirmed Tuesday.

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The president has every right to nominate Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court,'' Kerry said. "It's our right and our responsibility to oppose him vigorously and to fight against this radical upending of the Supreme Court.''

Asked if the administration was taking Kerry's call for a filibuster seriously, White House press secretary Scott McClellan chuckled on Friday and said: "I think it was a historic day yesterday. It was the first ever call for a filibuster from the slopes of Davos, Switzerland.'' (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 27, 2006)
##

Who goes to Dartmouth?

2006-01-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

Klobuchar's Machine, also known as MN Publius is ran by college students at Dartmouth.

I'm not accusing them of doing it. I'm just pointing out I find it very interesting that people from the same school (which is not in the Minnesota) as pro-Klobuchar bloggers are going to MDE through an anonymously purchased domain.

FYI, Ciresi's website is www.ciresiforsenate.com

Ciresi factor

2006-01-27T06:10:00.000-08:00

How big of an impact will Mike Ciresi have on the Senate race?

Surely he's getting in at the right time. Ford Bell is beginning to drag up the anti-Klobucahr sentiment in the DFL (much like Bill Pulkrabek in last year's MNGOP Chair race who of course lost). This could certainly damage Amy Klobuchar's campaign.

People who don't like the fact the Klobuchar isn't willing to come out on certain issues may flock to Ciresi. If she really wants to win a primary, she just may have to run to the left (September) before she can run to the middle (November).

And that just may be her biggest fear...

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar, Ford Bell

Ciresi to get in

2006-01-26T18:09:00.000-08:00

From Checks and Balances:

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A source with close ties to Mike Ciresi contacted us and said that Ciresi is going to announce his entrance into the U.S. Senate race next week. The source said Ciresi is saying the following, “I have concluded the wrong candidate is in the race and I aim to fix that.”

Currently, Ciresi is out of the state and we are awaiting his response to our information. (Source: Checks and Balances, Jan. 26, 2006)
##

MY DFL web blunder

2006-01-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

MDE had a major find today, the Minnesota Young DFL's website (an official DFL website) links to several pornographic websites, including those which promote rape, feature bestiality among other topics.

To view the posts, click on "Message board" then "Anything around Edina," which I take it is a very happening place.

I did take screen captures of the posts, but will not post them due to the offensive nature of the posts.

If you would like a copy of the screen captures (for research purposes), please e-mail me.

Tags: DFL

Klobuchar on Alito

2006-01-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

Wow, Klobuchar actually came out on a controversial issue.

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"Samuel Alito's record raises serious concerns that he is outside the mainstream legal tradition," Klobuchar, a DFLer, said in a statement. "Moreover, I am not convinced that he would represent the standards of thoughtfulness and independence set by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor" - the justice Alito has been nominated to replace.

Klobuchar said she was concerned that Alito's "ideological agenda" could affect his legal opinions. (Source: AP, Jan. 26, 2006)
##

Props to Gary for this one.

In related news, Rep. Hausman switched her U.S. Senate endorsement from Klobuchar to Bell.

Ouch.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar

Roll Call: Ciresi expected to get in

2006-01-26T08:10:00.000-08:00

MDE has the scoop.

This could spell trouble for Klobuchar.

Tags: Mike Ciresi, Amy Klobuchar

Reality Check II

2006-01-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

Last night's edition of Reality Check dealt with viewers responses to Kessler's latest stories. Sure enough the DFL's Abramoff-related funds made the story.

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Non-partisan organizations tracking campaign finances regard contributions by Abramoff's clients as money connected to Abramoff. That's part of what federal investigators are looking at. (Source: Reality Check, Jan. 25, 2005)
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Got it. The funds are Abramoff-related funds.

Previous Posts:
DFL Hypocrisy gets a Reality Check
Charities list
You can't handle the truth
Fun with fallacies

Tags: Jack Abramoff, DFL, Jim Oberstar

Maps for illegals?

2006-01-26T05:13:00.000-08:00

I wonder if the DFL or Brian Melendez support this form of immigration reform.

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The National Human Rights Commission, a Mexican government-funded agency with independent powers, has said it would distribute at least 70,000 maps showing highways, rescue beacons and water tanks in the Arizona desert. (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 26, 2005)
##

Tags: Brian Melendez

MDE to respond to Blois

2006-01-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

At 10 AM tomorrow, MDE will release his response to Blois' baseless suit.

Tags: First_Amendment, Bloggers, Blois Olson, Michael Brodkorb

MNGOP Statement on Peter Hutchinson

2006-01-25T14:21:00.000-08:00

Statement by the Republican Party of Minnesota on Peter Hutchinson’s Gubernatorial Candidacy

St. Paul - Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Ron Carey today issued the following statement regarding Peter Hutchinson's announcement of his gubernatorial candidacy.

"Peter Hutchinson is a consistent liberal whom we welcome to the gubernatorial race. While we disagree with his views, we believe him to be unchanging in his beliefs, which is refreshing when compared to the current crop of DFL primary contenders." (Source: MNGOP Press Release, Jan. 25, 2005)

Galloway evicted

2006-01-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

My Special London correspondent informed me that minutes ago, Galloway was evicted from the Big Brother house

Developing...

Alas, no more pigs and red tights.

WendyAnderson

2006-01-25T13:04:00.000-08:00

Former Gov. Wendell "I appoint myself Senator in one of the biggest political blunders of the 20th Century" Anderson is helping out Mike Hatch in his latest fundraising plea.

Click here for MDE's post, here for the letter.

Tags: Mike Hatch

Bell's letter to Klobuchar

2006-01-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

Gary's got the goods at KvM.

Mr. Bell was very polite.

Factual error in Steve Kelley's press release

2006-01-25T11:35:00.000-08:00

MNCR loves Steve Kelley's press release sent out yesterday. I thought it was pretty good (seeing that it slapped Hatch in the face). But one error has bothered me all day.

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It will be because I am the only candidate with a clear, positive vision to return Minnesota to being the national leader in education, health care, transportation and renewable energy. (Source: Steve Kelley for Governor press release, Jan. 24, 2006)
##

Steve Kelley is wrong when he says Minnesota needs to return to"being the national leader in education, health care, transportation and renewable energy."

Why is he wrong?

Minnesota, thanks to Gov. Pawlenty and Minnesota's industries, Minnesota is already a national leader in these areas.

Gov. Pawlenty has been honored as Chair of the National Governors Association's (NGA) committee on Education, as well as the Chair of the NGA's panel on renewable fuels. With Q-Comp, Pawlenty has begun to think outside the box to reform education. Our bio-tech companies have made Minnesota a leader in the area of health care. I don't think a socialized medicine approach will make Minnesota a leader in Health care (sorry Steve).

Tags: Steve Kelley, Tim Pawlenty

Working together to increase turnout

2006-01-25T08:31:00.000-08:00

DFL, GOP TO HOLD JOINT NEWS CONFERENCES, OTHER MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF CAUCUSING

ST. PAUL - The Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor and Republican parties will hold joint news conferences in St. Paul and Rochester on Tuesday, Feb. 14, to increase awareness about its party caucusing events, which are scheduled for Tuesday, Mar. 7. Specific details for the events are forthcoming.

“There are things that Republicans and Democrats disagree about from time to time, but one of the things we do agree on is that Minnesota is better when more Minnesotans are involved in the political process,” Minnesota DFL Chair Brian Melendez said. “More participation makes better government, and together Minnesotans can do better.”

“I am very pleased to join with the DFL in the promotion of party caucuses. Chairman Melendez and I both agree a strong caucus system is good for our great state,” Republican Party of Minnesota Chair Ron Carey said.

A precinct caucus is a neighborhood meeting and the first step in the political process allowing citizens to get together to discuss issues and candidates. Decisions concerning the party’s platform and candidates begin at the precinct caucus, and Minnesotans are encouraged to make their voices heard by becoming a delegate or alternate to subsequent endorsing conventions. Minnesota law recognizes the precinct caucus as the basis of the political endorsement system and governs the operation of the caucus to ensure the openness of the system.

The DFL and GOP will work together in distributing statewide opinion articles and media interviews to promote the press conferences and caucus events. Media interested in interviewing the party chairs on the upcoming events should contact DFL Communications Director David Ruth or Republican Communications Director Mark Drake.

Tags: MNGOP, DFL

This is to easy

2006-01-25T07:44:00.000-08:00

I don't even need to make a comment on this one.

Bell accepts Kennedy's debate challenge

2006-01-25T07:33:00.000-08:00

Ford Bell has accepted Mark Kennedy's challenge to U.S. Senate debates, but first called for Amy Klobuchar, who has yet accepted offers from either her Republican or Democratic opponent, to debate Bell.

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MINNEAPOLIS - U.S. Senate Candidate Ford Bell today said he accepts a debate challenge issued by his Republican opponent. "I'll debate Mark Kennedy anytime, anywhere," said Bell. "Of course I would prefer to first have a series of one-on-one debates with Amy Klobucher within the DFL process."

To date Klobuchar has not accepted Bell's debate challenge issued at the DFL State Central Committeee on Saturday, January 21. "If Amy won't debate, than I will go one-on-one with Kennedy because the public needs to know that Kennedy is extreme and not in touch with the values of Minnesotans. I remain hopeful that Amy will ultimately decide to join me and stand up to the Republican spin machine."

Bell said that debates are the best way to beat Kennedy in November. "Democrats should never be afraid to engage their opponents on the battleground of ideas," said Bell.

Bell went on to say, "These debates will convincingly demonstrate to the public that our party has real solutions to the important issues that face our nation - issues that I have been talking about since the beginning of my campaign such as universal single payer health care and getting our troops out of Iraq no later than the end of this year."

On Sunday, in an appearance on KSTP's "At Issue with Tom Hauser," Kennedy challenged Bell and Klobuchar to debates. Bell said his campaign has accepted Kennedy's challenge and awaits Klobuchar's response.

Bell has also attempted to debate Klobuchar one on one.

Both candidates were invited to do a joint appearance on TPT- Almanac on Friday, January 20th, but Klobuchar refused the offer, and so, the show cancelled the appearance. Bell challenged Klobuchar to an open series of debates at the DFL State Central Committee meeting on Saturday, January 21st, but has not received a response.

"I look forward to debating Amy Klobuchar, and the sooner we both start taking on Mark Kennedy the better," said Bell.

The Bell campaign is reaching out to the League of Women Voters, the DFL Party and other organizations to see if they will sponsor debates for the U.S. Senate contest. (Source: Ford Bell for Senate Press Release, Jan. 25, 2005)
##

I'm sure those who didn't like Kennedy's jab at Klobuchar in his release about Wetterling's withdrawl won't like Bell's slap-in-the-face release on Klobuchar's refusal to debate.

Tags: Ford Bell, Mark Kennedy, Amy Klobuchar

4 way DFL gubernatorial primary?

2006-01-25T06:52:00.000-08:00

We already know that Becky Lourey, Mike Hatch and Kelly Doran will be running in a primary. Steve Kelley reaffirmed him pledge to abide by the DFL endorsement yesterday. Could that decision influence enough delegates who firmly believe in the endorsement process to vote for him?

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“"It's time to stop dividing the party- I am abiding by the DFL endorsement because Democrats need to be united to win. I know that DFL delegates want to win in November. Those delegates are smart - —they will choose the candidate who can win. I disagree with Mike Hatch that the winner at the DFL convention will win because of some political purity test. The DFL has changed since Hatch last ran for governor. Thousands of new people have gotten involved in recent years: moms and dads who care about health care; business owners who are concerned about early childhood education; workers who care about renewable energy. These diverse people can'’t be boxed in by Hatch's old-hat way of thinking.”" -Steve Kelley (Source: Kelley for Governor Press Release, Jan. 24, 2006)
##

If it could to a 4 person primary, things would be very interesting in September. Whoever gets the DFL endorsement will get the kiss of death in a primary. Typically in the DFL Primaries for state-wide office, the winner of the DFL endorsement looses the primary.

Of course we all know that in a primary, Mike Hatch will win coming out bruised, broken, penniless and having alienated many DFLers. Those Hatch alienated may go out and vote for Peter Hutchison. Clearing the way for an easy Pawlenty victory.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty, Steve Kelley, Mike Hatch, Kelly Doran, Becky Lourey

NRSC blasts Klobuchar

2006-01-24T13:06:00.000-08:00

The NRSC sent out a release today calling for Klobuchar to come out on where she stands on Alito.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar

Klobuchar's time card

2006-01-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

I want to be the Hennepin County Attorney, or at least a Hennepin County employee.

They are very flexible with their time.

Props to Gary on this one.

I smell a story brewing.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar

What a difference a year makes

2006-01-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

2005:
George Galloway testifies before the U.S. Senate. He gets schooled by Norm Coleman.

2006:
George Galloway has been reduced to preforming "the robot" in red spandex.

Dayton is still nuts

2006-01-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Now I know it doesn't compare to this, this or this, but Sen. Dayton's attacks on Gov. Pawlenty's education reform are unfounded.

Need I remind him that it was Gov. Pawlenty, not the DFL, who proposed the largest-ever increase in K-12 spending. His Q-Comp proposal shows his commitment to improving the education quality of the worse off schools.

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More important politically, [Pawlenty] and the Legislature passed the largest school-aid bill in years. (Source: Pioneer Press, July 17, 2005)
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Sorry Mark.

Tags:Mark Dayton, Tim Pawlenty

Hatch flip-flop of the week #10

2006-01-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

Flip-Flop of the Week: Volume 1, Issue 10

BREAKING: Mike Hatch Flip-Flops On Abiding By 2006 DFL Endorsement

October 2005: Hatch Pledges To Abide By DFL Endorsement If There Is “Decent-Sized” Turnout At DFL Precinct Caucuses. “Given Hatch’s history, the big question among DFL activists is whether he would abide by the party’s endorsement next year or run in the primary without party backing. Hatch hedged on that question, saying, ‘I am going to abide by the endorsement process,’ but then added he would do so only if there is a ‘decent-sized’ turnout at DFL precinct caucuses in March.” (Bill Salisbury, “Hatch Makes His Run Official; DFL’s Only Elected State Official Aims Higher Again,” Pioneer Press, October 25, 2005)

January 2006: Hatch Representative Lori Swanson Says Hatch Will Abide By DFL Endorsement. “One key political issue that divides the four Democratic-Farmer-Labor candidates is their stands on whether they will move on to a DFL primary election in September if they fail to win their party’s endorsement this spring. … [Kelly] Doran… repeated his previous promise to wage a primary campaign regardless of who gets the DFL endorsement. And [Becky] Lourey emphatically said she would be in that primary with Doran. … [Steve] Kelley promised he would not run in September if he fails to win the endorsement. And [Hatch Representative Lori] Swanson said she believed Hatch would honor the endorsement and not wage a primary campaign without it.” (Patrick Sweeney, “Candidate Forum May Be Preview Of Fall Campaign; DFL Governor Hopefuls Criticize Pawlenty,” Pioneer Press, January 16, 2006)

January 2006: Hatch To Enter Primary If He Comes “Even Close” To Winning DFL Endorsement. “Long considered the 500-pound gorilla in the DFL gubernatorial contest, Attorney General Mike Hatch now says that if he doesn’t win but comes ‘even close’ to winning party endorsement for that office, he will challenge the endorsee in a September primary.” (Patricia Lopez, “If He’s A Close 2nd, Hatch Would Run In Primary,” Star Tribune, January 24, 2006)

Tags: Mike Hatch

Lambert & Janecek give blogs no respect

2006-01-24T08:06:00.000-08:00

I caught some of Lambert & Janecek's conversation last night with an editor from City Pages. They were discussing the overall lack of media criticism in Minnesota. Finally after complaining about the lack a media criticism, the CP editor (I didn't catch his name) plugged their Blotter.

I would have called in, but I can't stand either of them (I really don't know what caused me to listen, maybe temporary insanity).

Well, here's my (partial) list of media critics in Minnesota.

What's the deal with DFL Blog?

2006-01-24T07:33:00.000-08:00

As many of you may have noticed DFL Blog has gone without many updates since the New Year.

DFL Blog is the most well produced political blog in Minnesota. The template as well as other features make it stand above the rest from a technical standpoint. I also view it as my counterpart on the left, much like how MDE and MRW go together.

Besides, who can forget this post? I laughed my ass off when I saw it.

Anyways, I e-mailed Toby last night and he told me DFL Blog will be back soon enough.

AP Wire: Wetterling on her future

2006-01-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

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Child safety advocate Patty Wetterling said Monday that she has met with DFL Attorney General Mike Hatch about being his running mate in the governor's race.

Wetterling spoke to the St. Cloud Times at a reception following a memorial service for former U.S. Sen. Eugene McCarthy at St. John's University. She said she had talked to Hatch since withdrawing from the U.S. Senate race Friday and endorsing Hennepin County Attorney Amy Klobuchar.

Wetterling also is being urged to take another run at what is now an open seat in the Sixth Congressional District, where she had earlier endorsed Elwyn Tinklenberg, a former mayor of Blaine and former state transportation commissioner. (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 24, 2006)

A source of mine say the Wetterling/Hatch meeting took place directly following her press confernce.

Tags: Mike Hatch , Patty Wetterling

Hatch shows his true nature

2006-01-24T06:41:00.000-08:00

The Star Tribune has a very revealing story about the DFL and Mike Hatch. In this article, Hatch shows his true nature as a political opportunist.

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Long considered the 500-pound gorilla in the DFL gubernatorial contest, Attorney General Mike Hatch now says that if he doesn't win but comes "even close" to winning party endorsement for that office, he will challenge the endorsee in a September primary. If delegates to the party's June state convention reject him decisively, Hatch says, he will pull out of the governor's race and run for reelection to his current job -- with or without the DFL's blessing. (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 24, 2006)
##

Honestly I'm not surprised he's changed his position on a primary. I'm sure this will show up on unHatched soon enough so I won't dwell on it too much.

Another article highlight:

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State Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson, DFL-Willmar, agreed, saying "the endorsement is a screening process, but it's not the rest of the story in Minnesota anymore. I can even see them [delegates] supporting a candidate who won't abide. The landscape has changed. The bottom line is we're tired of losing." (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 24, 2006)
##

Well Dean, if you didn't want to lose, you should have thought about that before changing parties.

Tags: Mike Hatch

Bell: There will be a U.S. Senate primary

2006-01-23T13:48:00.000-08:00

It appears that Ford Bell will not be going quietly into the night following Klobuchar's coronation.

In a letter sent to Sen. Chuck Schumer, Bell says he will be running against Amy Klobuchar.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Ford Bell

Why are Zack's panties in a twist?

2006-01-23T10:50:00.000-08:00

Zack over at Klobuchar's Machine is upset about Ford Bell and Mark Kennedy's call for debates.

Hey, I got a great idea. Instead of being mad at Ford Bell, KvM, MDE and myself, maybe Zack should direct his anger at Klobuchar's unwillingness to take a stance on taking a stance.

If she's got nothing to hide, why won't she say "Yes, let's debate"?

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell

Kelly Doran shows his ignorance

2006-01-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

Kelly Doran seems to think that Minnesota's low job growth rate is bad. Before speaking out on this, he should have found out the reason for Minnesota's lower than average job growth rate.

The reason Minnesota has a job growth rate is that Minnesota's unemployment numbers are much lower than the national average. The most recent numbers I've seen (from a story linked on the Doran website last week) are a 4.9% unemployed nationally while unemployment in Minnesota is a 4.1%, almost a 1 point difference.

So one question remains, is why is Kelly Doran attacking Minnesota's rich history of low unemployment?

This guy just doesn't get it.

Tags: Kelly Doran

Bell and Kennedy: Take a stance Amy

2006-01-23T09:56:00.000-08:00

In the past few days since Amy Klobuchar coronation as the DFL U.S. Senate nominee, her two opponents, Ford Bell and Mark Kennedy, have challenged her to debates seeing that she has been reluctant to take a stand on some issues.

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In a speech at the DFL Central Committee meeting here, U.S. Senate candidate Ford Bell challenged Amy Klobuchar to a series of debates around the state to discuss "the serious issues facing the nation, and the kind of party the DFL will be."

Bell praised Patty Wetterling, who withdrew from the race Friday, saying she has brought "hope and promise" to the DFL. With her withdrawal, he said the DFL Senate race is now a "referendum on the Party's soul."

Bell also blistered Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the chair of the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee, saying that Schumer's message to the DFL grassroots was "sit down, shut up, we're from Washington and we know best."

In his speech, he spoke both to the Party's leaders and the broader DFL membership, asking "Are we still a home-grown, grassroots, activist party, or should we be a top-down, wholly- owned subsidiary of Chuck Schumer and the political leadership in Washington? Will we be the party with our finger in the wind, or are we still the party with our fists in the air, speaking truth?"

During the speech, Bell also spoke about a specific timetable to end the war in Iraq and his call for universal, single-payer health care, and he renewed his challenge to Ms. Klobuchar and presumptive Republican nominee Rep. Mark Kennedy to join his pledge to make such a health-care bill the first act of Minnesota's next Senator. (Source: Ford Bell for Senate Press Release, Jan. 22, 2006)
##

On Friday, Mark Kennedy challenged Klobuchar to debate.

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"Our U.S Senate seat is crucial for Minnesota. The voters of our state deserve to know exactly where each candidate stands on the key issues facing our nation and our state.

"Unfortunately, too often these important issue discussions fall victim to poll-tested sound bites and canned applause lines. I think it's time for the kind of open, honest, thoughtful, and friendly debate the people of Minnesota deserve. We don't need some cable-channel shout fest, but a real discussion of the real issues.

"I believe that in the next 2-4 weeks, we should begin these issue discussions across the state of Minnesota. Different regions of our state have different concerns and the debates should be scheduled accordingly.

"I am ready and willing to debate the Democrat candidates on the issues that will decide this Senate election as soon as possible." (Mark Kennedy '06 Press Release, Jan. 21, 2006)
##

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy, Ford Bell

Ford plant dodges closings

2006-01-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

With a lot of help from the Pawlenty administration, the St. Paul Ford plant dodged the list of closings announced in Detroit today.

This is due in large part to the quality if the St. Paul plant workers as well as the Gov. Pawlenty's proposal to form a partnership with the St. Paul plant, with the possibilities of dabbling in alternative fuels and hybrids.

In an article on Pawlenty yesterday, Dane Smith said Pawlenty needs a big accomplishment to tout this fall (as if low unemployment, solving the worst State budget crisis ever, education reform, etc. weren't enough). He may have just found it.

Star Tribune feed.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty

Pawlenty profile piece

2006-01-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you saw the Gov. Pawlenty profile piece in yesterday's Star Tribune.

This just goes to show how much Gov. Pawlenty is the average Minnesotan. This is the kind of press Hatch, Lourey and Kelley could never earn and the kind Doran could never buy.

##

"In very broad terms the message is going to be that we inherited a crisis that we had to resolve and did," he said, referring to the state's budget deficit of recent years. "And now we need to focus on positioning Minnesota to compete and thrive in the economy of the future. We don't want to go backwards."

But the governor's critics contend that it is sometimes hard to know which way he is going. Some accuse him of spinning out proposals that he does not follow through on and sending mixed signals on other issues.

Is Pawlenty beginning the last year of his first term determined to be Minnesota's most conservative Republican governor since the New Deal? Or is he is likely to continue drifting to the political center and defying the conservative creed on selected issues?

Will he focus on achieving a few signature accomplishments this year? Or keep announcing scores of initiatives?

Larry Jacobs, a University of Minnesota political science professor, said Pawlenty appears to be showing more pragmatism as he begins his make-or-break year.

"He really isn't one of the government haters," Jacobs said. "He's an example of the next-generation Republican who knows that the conservative ride on ideology is kind of hitting a wall." (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 22, 2005)

The pictures to this article show Minnesotans the true nature of Gov. Pawlenty. He's the kid down the street from when you were growing up, the one your mother said was such a "nice boy."

The question and answer period shows us his Gov. Pawlenty isn't afraid to joke around, but and also can address his own concerns about how he's doing as governor.

##

Q. What do you say to the criticism that you are trying to do too many things at once, that follow-through is sometimes weak, that you are too restless, that you have too many plates spinning, that you need to focus on fewer things and stay on message?

A. I think it's a fair criticism. I myself have heard those concerns. I have absorbed them and reflected on them. It's both good and bad. It's fair critique but the world is complex. It would be an underutilization of the office to say that we could only do one or two things. The demands of Minnesota, in terms of education reform, health-care reform, transportation issues, government reform, are such that you can't do one thing every other year and say that's a full utilization of the office. I recognize you can't have a wish list so long that it lacks focus . At the same time I do have a lot of energy, I have some skills and abilities to offer, and I can handle more than one issue at a time. The process and the public often can't track or focus on more than a few big issues a year, so the question is to draw a balance and we try to pick two to five issues a session.

Q. What do you say to the observation that you are one of the least "handled" and controlled governors in memory but that it means you do everything yourself, your own legislative strategy, your own policy proposals, your own public relations, your own political strategy. And there's nobody strong enough to talk you out of impulsive or bad ideas.

A. I don't think that's accurate. If you look at the team I've assembled it wouldn't be correct to say (former chief-of-staff) Charlie Weaver was a weak-kneed ninny. (Former chief-of-staff) Dan McElroy was very smart and very strong. (Current chief-of-staff) David Gaither, whom people don't know as well, is, on a scale of 1 to 10 for alpha dogs, a 9.5. (Communications Director Brian McClung) is extroverted and strong and egotistical as the come. (Laughter. McClung was present) We have a strong team with skilled people. But I think the thing you may be driving is that there is no question that sometimes I drop back and throw a long ball. I do that purposely with my eyes open. I know it is fraught with risk. I also know that some of these things have little chance in the Legislature. But I also know that I will have this position for a relatively short period of time and I don't want to hunkered down, pulling punches, and wishing in the future as I look back that I had the courage or the fortitude to throw things out there. Some things we present because we want to get the public focused on the issues. Not everything is a legislative issue. Part of the use of the bully pulpit is to get things out there and moving forward on them. Do I take risks and act a little quirky at times. Yes. And I do it intentionally. (Source: Star Tribune, Jan. 22, 2006)

Tags: Tim Pawlenty

Paul Begala on Meet the Press

2006-01-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I heard this right (I was eating breakfast at the time) but I think I heard Paul Begala say the contributions from the tribes we "Abramoff-directed."

I will try and get a transcript.

Wetterling: "Everything is a possibility for 2006."

2006-01-21T16:42:00.000-08:00

Well, not exactly. . .

We've just been told that Patty Wetterling is not in the Senate race, so technically that isn't "a possibility for 2006" at this point. More importantly, Patty has said time and time and time and time again that she will not be a candidate in 2006 for the 6th Congressional District.

So, just to clarify. "Everything is a possibility for 2006" for Patty Wetterling EXCEPT US Senate, and 6th Congressional District. Unless of course she is not telling us the truth.

##
"Speaking to Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party elders at a Hemenway Forum luncheon in Oakdale, she [Patty Wetterling] said, 'I'm not going to run for the 6th District. The numbers show me that ... I will not win.'" Source: (Pioneer Press, April 20, 2005)

"Wetterling also addressed rumors that she might become a candidate for the U.S. House again or become a running mate to one of the Democratic candidates eying the governor's office. 'For members of the press that still aren't hearing me, it is: United. States. Senate,' she said." (Source: Pioneer Press, October 10, 2005)
##

On a similar note, today I spoke with a DFL friend of mine who has, off and on for a few years, worked for Democratic groups in Minnesota. My contact said that Wetterling needs to just quit politics. My source also said that if Wetterling does move to the Hatch ticket, disaster could be spelt for Hatch. The more liberal of Hatch's supporters who realize Patty is a poor campaigner may move over to Becky Lourey. Hatch's supporters to the right may take off to Kelly Doran's campaign.

All of this comes on the heels of a Draft Patty for Congress Rally and a reported Hatch-Wetterling meeting following her press conference yesterday.

Tags: Patty Wetterling, Mike Hatch, Kelly Doran, Becky Lourey

Kennedy calls out Klobuchar

2006-01-21T16:33:00.000-08:00

Rep. Mark Kennedy has called out Ms. Amy Klobuchar.

Now that her coronation is complete, the debates can begin.

##
"Our U.S Senate seat is crucial for Minnesota. The voters of our state deserve to know exactly where each candidate stands on the key issues facing our nation and our state.

"Unfortunately, too often these important issue discussions fall victim to poll-tested sound bites and canned applause lines. I think it's time for the kind of open, honest, thoughtful, and friendly debate the people of Minnesota deserve. We don't need some cable-channel shout fest, but a real discussion of the real issues.

"I believe that in the next 2-4 weeks, we should begin these issue discussions across the state of Minnesota. Different regions of our state have different concerns and the debates should be scheduled accordingly.

"I am ready and willing to debate the Democrat candidates on the issues that will decide this Senate election as soon as possible." (Mark Kennedy '06 Press Release, Jan. 21, 2006)
##

I predict that Klobuchar will drag her feet on this.

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Mark Kennedy

Klobuchar's coronation is complete

2006-01-20T15:40:00.000-08:00

The DFL's kingmakers have spoken and Patty Wetterling is out of the Senate race.

Klobuchar has just locked up the DFL nomination for U.S. Senate.

The DFL elite have been grooming her for higher office since she was elected Hennepin County Attorney. It reached its peak in 2004 when Klobuchar spoke at the DNC.

The Kennedy camp had this to say:

##
"I'm surprised at Mrs. Wetterling's withdrawal from the U.S. Senate race. Although all three Democrats are from the liberal wing of their party, Mrs. Wetterling's campaign seemed to be setting the agenda on the DFL side.

"Though we disagreed with her, often strongly, we admired the fact that she was willing to take clear cut positions and defend them publicly.

"In anointing Ms. Klobuchar, the Democrats have staked themselves to a candidate who has been unwilling to tell voters her position on the key issues facing Minnesotans." (Source: Mark Kennedy '06 Press Release, Jan. 20, 2006)
##

The MNGOP released this statement:

##
"Now that Patty Wetterling has been muscled out of the U.S. Senate race, it is our hope Amy Klobuchar will end her campaign of photo-ops and platitudes.

"Patty Wetterling has pledged she will not run in the 6th District. We expect the voters will take her at her word.

"Patty Wetterling has been mentioned as a potential running mate for Mike Hatch, but it's hard to see how a liberal idealist like Patty Wetterling and her supporters could stomach a well-known political opportunist like Mike Hatch." (Source: MNGOP Press Release, Jan. 20, 2006)
##

Tags: Amy Klobuchar, Patty Wetterling

My final response to my critics

2006-01-20T15:23:00.000-08:00

In The Empire Strike Back, Han Solo says to Luke Skywalker, "I must have hit it pretty close to the mark to get her all riled up like that."

That's what I'm thinking now after reading johnnie78's comments on my blog and MNCR's posts on the subject. They seem to be up in arms about my posts on the subject. North Star Politics doesn't like it too much either.

To answer johnnie78, As far as I know most of Jack Abramoff's contributions went to Republicans. Your insistence on changing the subject shows your disparity as well as your inability to face the facts.

The fact that Abramoff did not contribute the money in question can't change the fact that his associated gave money to the DFL and to Rep. Oberstar. It also won't change the fact they refuse to give away the money.

Just for johnnie78 and MNCR's pleasure, I will define "Abramoff-related/Abramoff tainted" contributions. They would be contributions given to campaigns, party units and campaign organizations by individuals and groups who have ties with Jack Abramoff. There individuals and groups would include his clients and his employees.

The contributions in question fall under this definition.

I have answered your questions and we are left with nothing but the facts:

The DFL and Rep. Oberstar have taken contribution which are Abramoff-related and they refuse to do the honorable thing by giving them away to charity. Also, Brian Melendez is showing his hypocrisy by not giving the money to charity after he sends out press releases blasting the "Republican culture of corruption."

Now, I am not a appreciate and I'd appriciate it if we can stay above the ad hominem attacks. Going this route won't change reality johnnie78.

Once again, be mad at Brian Melendez and Rep. Oberstar for making this story possible, not me and certainly not Pat Kessler.

Sorry guys, you cannot change the facts. And at the end of the day, that's all we have.

Tags: Brian Melendez, Jack Abramoff, DFL, Jim Oberstar

Klobuchar to attend Wetterling event

2006-01-20T11:16:00.000-08:00

Word has it that Wetterling's event will be attended by Amy Klobuchar.

Melendez on Lou Dobbs

2006-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I posted my prediction for Brian Melendez interview on Illegal Immigration on Lou Dobbs Tonightt last evening.

Read it here.

I was pretty much spot on. To sum up what he said in one sentence: If the Federal government is not doing its job, it is not up to the states.

Here's some highlights.

##
DOBBS: So what you would have the governor do, Brian?

MELENDEZ: ... and he may be running for president of the United States.

DOBBS: OK. Whatever you want...

(CROSSTALK)

MELENDEZ: So why would a state government make immigration the centerpiece of his agenda?

DOBBS: I get it. You don't like Governor Tim Pawlenty, but let's talk about the merits here. What would you have...

(CROSSTALK)

MELENDEZ: I don't know if I don't like him. I wouldn't vote for him for re-election.

DOBBS: What would you have your state government -- and would you then ascribe to the idea that perhaps those city councils, those police chiefs and mayors should take note of federal law and the law of the land and remove those sanctuary laws? Would you urge your membership and your party to do that?

MELENDEZ: You know, it's really up to a court whether...

(CROSSTALK)

DOBBS: I'm sorry, it's up to whom?

MELENDEZ: ... enforce those laws.

DOBBS: It's up to whom?

MELENDEZ: I don't know that the laws have been challenged. But it's not up to Governor Tim Pawlenty to decide whether federal law applies or not.

DOBBS: No, no. I'm not talking about Governor Pawlenty. I'm talking about you, the membership of your party there in Minnesota. Don't you want them to roll those back and get in line with federal law?

MELENDEZ: We're in favor of enforcing federal law. The Democratic Party is not in favor of illegal immigration. We're in favor of responsible policy toward illegal immigration instead of these gimmickry tactics that Tim Pawlenty is advancing to cover up the failures of the federal government in this area. (Source: Lou Dobbs Tonight transcript, 1/19/2006)
##

Tags: Brian Melendez

What's the deal with Wetterling?

2006-01-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

Is she out in 2006?

Is she moving into the 6th?

Will she be Hatch's Lt. Governor candidate?

Tags: Patty Wetterling

Triple-A's candidate revealed II

2006-01-19T15:37:00.000-08:00

Someone has just compared Sue Jeffers for Harold Shudlick.

That's not fair to Harold.

Triple-A's candidate revealed

2006-01-19T14:03:00.000-08:00

Who?

I can't believe this is what he sat on for so long. Honestly. She posses no credible threat to anyone, only Residual Force's credibility.

That's it?

I haven't seen anything this over-hyped since Geraldo Rivera opened Al Capone's vault.
I mean come on. I waited over a month for this.

I was thinking I would have at least heard of the person before.

I will say this though, her website is a lot better than Mike Hatch's.

Fun with fallacies

2006-01-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

After reading the comments of some of my critics, I felt it necessary to outline the fallacies in their arguments. All of the fallacies used by my critics present agreements which lack cogency.

Straw man - From MNCR: " DEMOCRATS DO IT TOO SO IT'S NOT SO BAD IT'S JUST THE EVIL IN THE SYSTEM."

The reason this constitutes a Straw Man is that I never once said anything remotely close to what MNCR is claiming I said. MNCR is just putting words into my mouth.

Red Herring - From johnnie78: "By giving it back you mean the tainted money Kennedy and Kline got from the indicted Tom Delay?"

This debate is not over Delay's funds, but whether the DFL and Oberstar should give away the Abramoff-tainted funds. johnnie78 is just trying to distract me, and my readers, from the real issue.

Spotlight - This one is a shout out to Brian Melendez, who likes to opine on the GOP's "culture of corruption."

I'd hate to tell you Brian, not all Republicans are corrupt, and neither are all Democrats.

You can't handle the truth

2006-01-19T12:44:00.000-08:00

A few Democrat bloggers aren't too happy with my post earlier today about the DFL's Abramoff-tainted funds.

First off, the information is all true and comes directly from Pat Kessler's Reality Check last night. So if you have a problem with the facts, you'll just have to grow up.

Secondly, I'm not one to be mad at, neither is MDE nor Kessler. Nor should I be blamed for "trying your patience."Be mad at Melendez for keeping the $9,000.00 and Oberstar for keeping the $3,500.00. It was their refusal to do the right thing (i.e. give away the money) which lead to this story.

Finally, I'm not saying "Republicans are corrupt, so are Democrats, it's ok" as some bloggers are suggesting. That is far from the truth. I'm just pointing out Melendez's hypocrisy over the issue by refusing to give away the DFL's dirty money. I'm also saying the DFL and Oberstar should give away the money.

Tags: Jack Abramoff, DFL, Jim Oberstar

Pawlenty on Lou Dobbs, again

2006-01-19T11:43:00.000-08:00

Once again, Gov. Tim Pawlenty will appear on Lou Dobbs Tonight to discuss illegal immigration.

This time his opponent will be DFL Chair Brian Melendez, who refuses to give back the DFL's Abramoff-tainted funds.

This will be fun to watch, unless of course you're a Democrat, then it will be a train wreck.

Melendez claims says that immigration is an important issue, but it should be left up to the Federal Government. I wonder if he knows that the Federal Government isn't doing enough on this issue.

I hope Lou Dobbs asks a question along these lines:

Lou Dobbs: Chairman Melendez, you say the immigration reform should be left up to the Federal government.

Brian Melendez: That is correct.

Lou Dobbs: Good. What then should states do when the Federal government is not stepping up to the plate to curb illegal behavior. For example, if the Federal government was not doing enough to help the people of New Orleans to recover from that awful tragedy. Would it be appropriate for the states to get involved?

Melendez: That would be totally different. You see.. I, um... Gov. Pawlenty...wedge issue...

Lou Dobbs: Mr. Melendez, do you and your party support illegal immigration?

Melendez: -silence-

Let's say this actually happens, it sill wouldn't be as bad as Minneapolis Police Chief William McManus' appearance last week.

Tags: Tim Pawlenty, illegal immigration

Bonding Bill 2006

2006-01-19T09:55:00.000-08:00

The First Ringer has a spot on post about the 2006 Bonding Bill.

Charities List

2006-01-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

I have compiled a list of a few charities to which both the DFL and Rep. Oberstar can send their checks of Abramoff-tainted funds.

American Red Cross
American Refugee Committee
Center for Victims of Torture
Habitat for Humanity
Minnesota Literacy Council
Second Harvest Heartland

Tags: Jack Abramoff, DFL, Jim Oberstar

DFL Hypocrisy gets a Reality Check

2006-01-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

"'Democrats across America stand united in exposing and ending the Republican culture of corruption - and in its place putting forth an agenda of strong ethics reforms that will provide the American people with honest leadership at all levels of government,' said Melendez." (Source DFL Press Release, 1/18/2006)

Those are the words of DFL Chairman Brian Melendez in a press release issued yesterday. The release also highlights contributions from Abramoff and his associates which were given to Minnesota Republican candidates. However, the DFL neglected to mention the vast sums of Abramoff-tainted monies it and it's candidates have received. (Click here to view the entire release)

Some hours after the DFL issued this release, Pat Kessler issued a Reality Check.

"But in fact most of the Abramoff-related monies in Minnesota went to Democrats." - Pat Kessler, Reality Check, 1/18/2006

$15,000 of the $19,000 Abramoff-tainted contributions in Minnesota went to Democrats. The DFL has said it will not return it's dirty money.

In 2002, $9000 of the DFL's Abramoff-tainted contributions went to help the ever-so-successful Walter Mondale for U.S. Senate campaign. The DFL's patron saint, the late Sen. Wellstone, took $1000 in Abramoff-related contributions in 2002.

Rep. Oberstar is going to keep his $3,500 in Abramoff-tainted contributions, following the lead of Brian Melendez, because he sees nothing wrong with the money he has received.

Sen. Coleman has given his $3000 in Abramoff-related contributions to charity. Rep. Kennedy has done the same with his $1000 in Abramoff-related contributions. I applaud both Kennedy and Coleman for giving away the money. I wish I could say the same for the DFL.

Please call the DFL today and ask them to give away their dirty money. (651) 293-1200 or 1-800-999-7457

To view the report, click here. The video will play on the right side.

UPDATE

I have added a list of charities to which the Abramoff-tainted funds can be sent.

Tags: Jack Abramoff, Norm Coleman, DFL, Mark Kennedy, Jim Oberstar

St. PAul Legal Ledger highlights Golnik

2006-01-19T07:51:00.000-08:00

The St. Paul Legal Ledger has a nice article on the MNGOP's new Executive Director, Ben Golnik.

Tags: MNGOP

MDE and Doran/Kiscaden

2006-01-19T07:20:00.000-08:00

After MDE exposed the padded resume of Sheila Kiscaden, the Kelly Doran for Governor campaign has changed it to reflect the truth. MDE also contacted a Who's Who directory to make sure they correct it was well.

Tags: Sheila Kiscaden, Kelly Doran

Republican Minnesota

Stand by...

CHANGES TO REPUBLICAN MINNESOTA

RNC '08 in Minneapolis

Walz to announce Sunday

Wilde things happen

My return

KvM Responds

SD House passes abortion ban

Marriage amendment difficulties

Olympics Update

Dump Kline bloggers must dump the lies

More on Hatch, the no-show

Klobuchar reaches new low

Note to Doran: Buy your own radio station

DFLers.org retooled

Olympics

Switcheroo trifecta?

MNGOP on Ciresi

What can Sesame Street teach us about the left?

Ciresi pushed out?

Loose lips at the DFL

Fun with fallacies II

Note to MN Publius

The debate over the debate

Hatch Flip-Flop of the week #12

Wetterling Round-up

RM Exclusive: College Democrats of America using Taxpayer Resources

Boehner elected new majority leader

What Will Wetterling Do?

Vikings Update - 3 of 4 have court dates

MN Publius' double standard

Protestors

Am I sexist?

First flip-flops, not complete B*** S***

Breaking news: Cat fight in the second district

GOP fundraising numbers - Update

On the bonding bill

Jonathon Sharkey arrested on 2 felony warrants

Hatch flip-flop of the week, #11

Pawlenty's 2005 numbers

Pawlenty and the "puck"

Dayton to support filibuster

Wetterling says no to Hatch, still mulling congressional run

Kennedy's 2005 Numbers

RM Exclusive: Pres. Bush coming to Minnesota

More Klobuchar dissent

Dem Blogger: Get behind the queenmaking

Pawlenty ahead in latest poll

Dems won't block Alito

Who goes to Dartmouth?

Ciresi factor

Ciresi to get in

MY DFL web blunder

Klobuchar on Alito

Roll Call: Ciresi expected to get in

Reality Check II

Maps for illegals?

MDE to respond to Blois

MNGOP Statement on Peter Hutchinson

Galloway evicted

WendyAnderson

Bell's letter to Klobuchar

Factual error in Steve Kelley's press release

Working together to increase turnout

This is to easy

Bell accepts Kennedy's debate challenge

4 way DFL gubernatorial primary?

NRSC blasts Klobuchar

Klobuchar's time card

What a difference a year makes

Dayton is still nuts

Hatch flip-flop of the week #10

BREAKING: Mike Hatch Flip-Flops On Abiding By 2006 DFL Endorsement

Lambert & Janecek give blogs no respect

What's the deal with DFL Blog?

AP Wire: Wetterling on her future

Hatch shows his true nature

Bell: There will be a U.S. Senate primary

Why are Zack's panties in a twist?

First flip-flops, not complete B* S*