Capitol View: February 2007 Archive

The Daily Digest: 2-1-07

Posted at 8:46 AM on February 1, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Governor Pawlenty leads a prayer breakfast in Washington DC today.

Back in Minnesota, the Star Tribune says the Iron Rangers flex their muscles. A Senate committee recommends the full senate reject the IRRB Commissioner.

The Pi Press has a story on a "gun safety bill." Supporters of the bill will hold a news conference today.

AP says the clock starts ticking on DM& E.

The Daily India says India is becoming a business destination. Pawlenty is mentioned.

Forum Communications says Cover all kids gets through a Senate committee.

Forum Communications also writes that nursing homes want an increase.

The Star Tribune says the first ever live, streaming webcast of a committee hearing will happen on Friday.

2006
AP says interest groups outspent the campaigns for governor. The DFL and the Alliance for a Better Minnesota spent $4.4 going after Pawlenty. The MNGOP and A Stronger America-Minnesota also spent $1.74 million going after Hatch.

AP also lists some notable items in those reports.

The Star Tribune says there is a long break between the two reports.

Former Auditor Pat Anderson says ECM that anyone could have beaten her in the last election.

Congress

The L.A. Times says there's a deal in the Senate on a troop increase rebuke. GOP Senator Norm Coleman is mentioned but it isn't clear if he supports it.

Forum Communications says Coleman is cautious on Iraq.

AP says he's also circulating a proposal on global warming.

He also praises Xcel for the proposed windmill farm.

AP quotes DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar and DFL Congressman Collin Peterson on Bush's proposal to cut farm subsidies for some. Peterson says he's open to some it. Klobuchar says she doesn't like it.

The Harvard Crimson quotes Klobuchar saying it isn't your daddy's joint economic committee.

AP says Hawaii Senator wants answers on the suicide death of a marine in Minnesota and why two VA hospitals in Minnesota didn’t act. GOP Congressman John Kline says VA officials told him he didn't present himself as suicidal.

GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad also weighs in on the matter in this McClatchy story.

AP says DFL Congresswoman Betty McCollum was named to a task force on whether there should be an outside ethics panel.

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar works out a road deal.

2008
Al Franken tells some that he's running. AP, the Pi Press and the Star Tribune have stories.

Robert Novak writes that Coleman is vulnerable. He also writes about the possible GOP candidates in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District.

The Daily Digest: 2-2-07

Posted at 10:10 AM on February 2, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Clean energy bill gets out of its first Senate Committee. The Pi Press and MPR have stories.

Smoking ban bill gets out of its first House Committee. The Pi Press, Forum Communications and MPR have stories.

The Star Tribune goes outside of the Capitol for their smoking ban story.

AP says Pawlenty raised $285,000 for the inaugural.

AP says a House Committee moves a bill that calls for greater disclosure of campaign dough.

The Grand Rapids Herald Review says their local legislators support a gas tax increase.

There's also a push for a statewide insurance pool.

KARE-11 focuses on the push to legalize ticket scalping.

Star Tribune columnist Dennis Anderson tries his best to convince lawmakers that the dedicated funding bill should be focused only on conservation and wetlands. In the interest of full disclosure, MPR would see funding under some of the plans.

Congress
AP and MPR say GOP Senator Norm Coleman sees some obstacles in the D,M and E fight but warns of a fight.

Forum Communications says Coleman is still studying Bush's farm proposal.

He also criticizes Democrats and Move On.org on the resolution in this Knight Ridder story.

USA Today says a troop increase is a tough sell for GOP Senators on the ballot in '08 (Coleman mentioned).

The Star Tribune (via the NY Times) says Coleman and DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar voted for the minimum wage increase.

Forum Communications also marks Klobuchar's first month in the Senate.

Klobuchar also writes an opinion column calling for the federal government to negotiate drug prices for Medicare.

The St. Cloud Times says Klobuchar is also going to Sartell on Saturday.

The Rochester Post Bulletin says DFL Congressman Tim Walz wants an increase in farm spending.

GOP Congressman John Kline tells KARE-11 that he's not happy that a soldier was turned away from the VA even though he told health professionals he had suicidal thoughts.

AP says military officials posted stories on DFL Congressman Keith Ellison's election in the detention center at Gitmo.

Ellison also criticizes Holocaust denial.

DFL Congressman Collin Peterson tells the Mankato Free Press that the debate over the farm bill is just starting.

2008

The Star Tribune says Pawlenty is drawing more national interest and sits down with reporters.

It must have worked since Politico writes about him. He also says none of the GOP candidates, with the exception of Sam Brownback, can match the purity litmus test.

Real Clear Politics ponders a McCain/Pawlenty ticket.

CQ says Texas homebuilder Bob Perry gives to McCain. He also gave to A Stronger America-Minnesota which helped Pawlenty get reelected. A possible link or a donor who likes the GOP? Partisans take your sides.

CQ picks up on what every other journalist in Minnesota reported yesterday.

A columnist with Real Clear Politics wonders if Al Franken can keep his cool.

The Jewish Daily Forward says Mike Ciresi is getting ready to get into the Senate race.

Roll Call says Coleman is in good financial shape. The story also says DFL Congressman Tim Walz has $30,000 in the bank.

The Daily Digest: 2-5-07

Posted at 7:47 AM on February 5, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

It's pretty thin soup at the digest today. Maybe too many people were watching the Super Bowl or Prince in the Superbowl.

Anyway, here's what we have. MPR has a story on Governor Pawlenty's veteran assistance plan. Some are skeptical of the price tag.

The Star Tribune says the Vikings will push for a metrowide sales tax.

ECM writes about the "stand your ground" bill.

Forum Communications writes about some of the suggestions offered for property tax reform.

Congress

The Washington Post says an Iraq vote showdown is coming and quotes Coleman. Coleman's possible DFL opponent in '08 (Al Franken) also rips Coleman. No offense, Eric, but it seems like he's running.

The AP says the resolution criticizing the troop surge hinges on a few GOP votes including GOP Senator Norm Coleman.

Coleman continues push for disaster aid.

The Star Tribune says the political climate over global warming is changing in Washington.

Another Star Tribune story says the state's wild bird population could be in trouble because of climate change.

The Hill says Walz asked President Bush about veterans issues as does the Washington Post.

Forum Communications has a story on lawmakers like DFL Congressman Collin Peterson who don't want to stop at corn as a renewable fuel source.

The St. Louis Post Dispatch quotes Peterson in this story on farmers expecting radical change to farm bill.

2008

CQ says Coleman is vulnerable.

But says an Al Franken candidacy will test Minnesota's "blueness."

Smart Politics says Franken's path to Washington could be rocky.

Mark Kennedy's fundraiser in '06, Tom McGill, signs up for Giuliani's team.

The Daily Digest: 2-6-07

Posted at 9:03 AM on February 6, 2007 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Daily Digest

Governor Pawlenty says he'll veto any bills that include do not include restrictions on research on embryonic stem cells. MPR, AP and the Star Tribune have stories.

Pawlenty doesn't support the Vikings stadium plan. AP and the Star Tribune have stories.

MPR has a story on GOP Rep. Mark Olson's lone wolf status.

The Star Tribune writes about the push to teach Chinese in school.

The Strib also writes on the Senate passage of a bill on campaign disclosure.

WCCO has a story on a bill that would attempt to prevent copper theft. The bill gets a hearing today.

A committee in the Minnesota Senate approves a bill that would ban smoking in bars and restaurants. The Star Tribune and the AP have stories.

Forum Communications says renewable energy could help jobs and the economy.

Forum Communications says there are also suggestions to tweak the school bus laws at the Capitol.

The Worthington Daily Globe says Pawlenty's property tax cap proposal makes officials in four local governments in their area nervous.

MNBlue writes that there is an anti surge resolution in the Minnesota House.

Sandy Layman, the IRRB Commissioner, defends her record to the Grand Rapids Herald Review.

Congress

Coleman votes against his party and for a resolution criticizing the troop surge plan. AP, USA Today and the New York Times have stories.

The Marshall Independent has a story quoting a Farm Bureau president saying the farm bill is working. Coleman, DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar, DFL Congressman Collin Peterson and Pawlenty are mentioned.

The Hill writes about the controversy on DM & E.

President Bush's budget calls for the elimination of a program that helps needy seniors. Klobuchar and Coleman rip the idea in this AP story.

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar calls Bush's budget "fuzzy math."

The Wall Street Journal also has a story on Bush's plan to change the way the FAA is funded. Oberstar rips it.

Michael Barone writes about which congressional districts pay the most and the least in taxes.

2008

Look who's at the top of the GOP VP list on political insider.

The Fix wonders if Al Franken is the dream candidate for dems.

ABC News calls Franken a potential member of "celebrity congress."

The Hill says HBO may rerun some of Franken's old bits.

Comment on this post

The Daily Digest: 2-7-07

Posted at 8:34 AM on February 7, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Several stem cell researchers at the U of M say Governor Pawlenty's restrictions on embryonic stem cell research are too limited and aren't based on science. MPR has the story. The bill gets a hearing in a House committee today.

AP says former DFL Senate Majority Leader John Hottinger could lose his law license.

The Pi Press has a story on a high school that is already meeting Pawlenty's call for a more rigorous high school.

But the St. Cloud Times says several schools are questioning some parts of Pawlenty's budget.

The mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul make a plea for more funding. The Pi Press has the story.

Forum Communications says a bill increasing family planning money moves through a House Committee.

MPR says some lawmakers want to weigh in on benefits for Northwest Airlines.

MPR has a story on the Senate early ed proposal and the price tag.

The Star Tribune takes a broader look at early learning.

The chair of the Senate Transportation committee blames slow driving and accidents on a funding shortfall at MNDOT. He blames Pawlenty for not signing a transportation funding bill in '05. Forum Communications and WCCO have stories.

The Star Tribune continues its quest to cover all things stadium by saying some lawmakers want debt relief for Xcel Energy Center.

Congress

The Hill says Democrats will try again on the resolution ripping the troop surge. GOP Senator Norm Coleman also says MoveOn.org can't sway him.

Coleman tells Bloomberg that he wants a full discussion on the resolution.

He also has an op-ed on his position.

The New York Times quotes DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar in this story. She's not happy about the GOP decision to block the resolution in the U.S. Senate.

Klobuchar also makes a floor speech on Iraq.

Here's the committee list for Minnesota's delegation.

The Stillwater Gazette has a story on GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann's agenda and discusses the "kiss" backlash.

GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad tells the Washington Post that it's inappropriate for President Bush to cut home heating assistance in his budget when it's cold in Minnesota.

DFL Congressman Keith Ellison will be in Detroit later this month with Jesse Jackson.

The High Plains Journal says Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns is confident about the farm bill. DFL Congressman Collin Peterson is mentioned.

Peterson calls for a biodiesel standard.

2008
Pawlenty is headed to Michigan this week to stump for John McCain.

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak tells Eric Black that he won't rule out a run for the U.S. Senate.

Black also lists others who are in and out on his blog.

Roll Call says former state senator Sharon Marko is thinking about challenging John Kline.

BlogWatch

Red State has an interview with Governor Pawlenty.

The Daily Digest: 2-8-07

Posted at 8:22 AM on February 8, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

AP says the U of M is walking softly on the stem cell issue. The Pi Press and MN Daily write that the bill moved through a House committee.

The Minnesota Senate is set to give final approval to a renewable energy standard. AP and the Star Tribune have stories.

The MAC gives NWA a break on fees. The Strib has the story.

The DFL Party accuses the conservative group that was formed to defeat DFLer Mike Hatch commingled funds.

Forum Communications has a story on the different bills that focus on all day k.

Former GOP Rep. Phil Krinkie is picked to head the Taxpayers League.

The Mesabi Daily News writes about a bill that would give benefits to veterans.

Secretary of State Mark Ritchie proposes easier voter registration.

Congress
McClatchy and the New York Times have stories on the Iraq troop surge. They report that a group of senators want a vote on the troop surge (GOP Senator Norm Coleman is one of them).

Coleman and DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar have concerns about the farm bill. AP and the Star Tribune have stories.

Politico quotes GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann complaining about the five day work week in Congress. Well, she complains that they aren't doing anything to merit being there for five days.

The Washington Post's Dana Milbank confirms that Congress doesn't seem to be doing much (the renaming of the Duluth courthouse is mentioned).

The Washington Post also has a story saying railroad firms are bringing on family members of staffers in Congress. It mentions that the majority staff director for the House Transportation Committee (DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar is the chair of that committee) has a father and brother who are now representing the choo-choos.

2008
AP and the Star Tribune say Mike Ciresi will announce next week if he will run for the U.S. Senate.

Blog Watch

Minnesota Monitor says the State Department interviews DFL Congressman Keith Ellison for good pub.

Arizona Senator John McCain starts to court conservative bloggers.

The Daily Digest: 2-9-07

Posted at 11:05 AM on February 9, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Boy oh boy. It's thin soup on the digest front. So I'm leading with bowling. Governor Pawlenty and legislative leaders went bowling yesterday at Ran-Ham Lanes in St. Paul. I'm told Pawlenty bowled a 118. DFL Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller bowled a 99. GOP House Minority Leader Marty Seifert bowled an 82. GOP Senate Minority Leader Dave Senjem bowled an 42. DFL House Speaker Margaret Kelliher bowled a 39.

The UAW wants a moratorium on the Ford Plant site. The Pi Press and the Star Tribune have stories.

The Pi Press also says the state will stop funding a controversial Christian prison program.

The energy standard gets final approval from the senate.

The Star Tribune says a state senator wants a greater investment and commitment to flex fuel vehicles.

Pawlenty tells KARE-11 that he likes being governor.

The St. Cloud Times writes about a bill to fund special education.

Congress
AP says GOP Senator Norm Coleman wants the Senate to vote on the Iraq war.

The Hill profiles Coleman as one of three vulnerable senators going against their party.

Coleman and DFL Congressman Tim Walz weigh in on DM&E in the Mankato Free Press.

Bloomberg also says Walz received some contributions from Comcast and Aflac.

The Daily Press says GOP Congressman John Kline calls the union card check system a last resort for union bosses to preserve their power.

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics files a complaint with the IRS on a Brooklyn Park pastor (he's the pastor who endorsed GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann in his church). The Pi Press, AP and the Star Tribune have stories. They basically follow yesterday's story in the Minnesota Monitor.

2008
The Baltimore Jewish Times handicaps a race between Coleman and DFLer Al Franken.

But wait! The Hill says Mike Ciresi could challenge Franken (if Franken gets in).

Political Insider ranks Coleman the most vulnerable Republican.

Coleman is backing Pawlenty for VP. Pawlenty will be in Michigan on Saturday to speak on behalf of John McCain. The Star Tribune and the Rochester Post Bulletin write about Coleman's glowing endorsement.

GOP state senator Dick Day will challenge DFL Congressman Tim Walz for Congress. AP, the Hill and MPR have stories.

The Daily Digest: 2-12-07

Posted at 8:39 AM on February 12, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

2008 leads the digest. Governor Tim Pawlenty was in Michigan over the weekend to speak on behalf of Arizona Senator John McCain. AP has the story. See an earlier post if you want to hear what he had to say.

Jumpin' Jehosephats! (is this how you spell Jehosephats?) KARE-11 jumps on the VP story bandwagon with stories here and here.

Pawlenty's trip receives some criticism from the Fergus Falls Daily Journal for going to Michigan and cancelling his snowmobile trip to Fergus Falls.

Pawlenty's office says it was because of lack of snow.

That's not all on the '08 front. The Star Tribune says Mike Ciresi has formed an exploratory committee for a U.S. Senate run. Another DFLer, Al Franken, is expected to enter the race on Wednesday. GOP Senator Norm Coleman is running for re-election.

Ciresi's announcement prompts political reporters everywhere to check if the ringers on their phones still work. Oh, I guess he just called Pat Lopez back (nice get, Pat). Sigh.

Legislature

The Pi Press has a story on the creation of the suburban DFL caucus.

Medical marijuana gets another push.

The Star Tribune also has a story on stem cell research and the possibility for state funding.

Pawlenty's property tax cap also sets off a debate in the Legislature.

The St. Cloud Times says the smoking ban debate divides the region's employers.

AP has a story saying smoking bans and higher tobacco taxes could drain the state's coffers.

WCCO-TV also has a story on the push to end dangerous driving.

Congress

Norm Coleman says politics has nothing to do with the criticism of President Bush's Iraq troop surge.

Illinois Senator Barack Obama, DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar and GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad belong to the UCC.

Klobuchar is also mentioned in this story on Democratic voters getting impatient with Congress.

AP has a story on GOP Congressman John Kline's tele-town hall meetings.

DFL Congressman Keith Ellison attends a black summit in Virginia.

He said those who justify not voting are "fools."

DFL Congressman Collin Peterson tells the Pi Press that he likes biofuels.

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar says Minnesota needs to invest more on roads to get more federal funding.

Other

DFL chair Brian Melendez wins another term.

The Star Tribune has an interesting story on Brooklyn Park pastor Mac Hammond.

The week in editorial cartoons.

The Daily Digest: 2-13-07

Posted at 8:42 AM on February 13, 2007 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Daily Digest

The Digest has formed an exploratory committee to determine if we should write about the 2008 election even though we're only into the second month of 2007. Please tune into the digest at 8:43 AM on Tuesday. We will announce our intentions at that point.

tick tock.....

Ok, we'll write about it. But CQ wonders why everyone in Minnesota is getting into the race so early.

DFLer Mike Ciresi tries to get another media bite of the apple and we give it to him. The Pi Press, The Hill, AP and MPR have stories. The wealthy trial attorney says he won't self fund his campaign.

The Star Tribune has some analysis on the 2008 Senate race. By the way, Al Franken is set to announce on Wednesday.

I apologize to Dick Franson and Rachel Stassen-Berger with the Pi Press for missing this story yesterday. It was buried right there on the front page.

Residual Forces says MN GOP executive director Ben Golnick has accepted a position with John McCain's exploratory committee.

Legislature

Forum Communications says the Iron Range legislators are giving the smoking ban proposal a difficult time in committee.

AP says the state tax collections slipped a bit. Lawmakers think February 28th can't get here fast enough (that's the day of the next revenue forecast).

MPR has a story on a bill that would require the HPV vaccine and the debate around it.

The Star Tribune says the Vikings stadium particulars have been delayed.

The Star Tribune has a story on the debate over snow plows in the Legislature.

AP says the House author has adopted the Senate energy bill. A House committee then moves it along.

There's also a proposal for state investment in a new form of ethanol.

The Minnesota Senate gives a Great Lakes pact an ok. AP has the story.

Education Commissioner Alice Seagren writes an op-ed on reinventing high school in the Pi Press.

Congress

Get ready for plenty of Minnesota stories on this.

GOP Senator Norm Coleman attends a speech by President Bush.

DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar rips the rural health provisions in President Bush's budget.

The Hill says the nation's sugar industry is stronger and points to DFL Congressman Collin Peterson's chairmanship as a reason why.

The Financial Times says President Bush is close to reaching a trade pact. Peterson says they're trying to work something out.

Voice of America also calls Peterson a rock star. Well, they say he's in a band. Check out the picture of him rockin' out.

Minnesota Monitor says GOP Congressman John Kline signs on to a marriage protection act.

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar wins approval of solar panels on the Department of Energy building.

Oberstar also speaks in support of naming a courthouse after Rush Limbaugh's grandfather.

Other

Minnesota Republican Party Chair Ron Carey will hold a townhall meeting in Blaine later this month.

Quote of the day
"People are looking at you like it's a sick joke" to say the 2008 cycle is starting, said Lawrence Jacobs, director of the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota told CQ.

Comment on this post

The Daily Digest: 2-14-07

Posted at 8:28 AM on February 14, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

The Digest wishes everyone a Happy Valentine's Day.

You know it's slow when the big story is on a bill aiming to limit dangerous driving. AP says the rules of the road could get tougher.

KARE-11 and the Star Tribune say the bill moves through a Senate committee.

The Winona Daily News previews today's rally by college students protesting higher ed costs.

Forum Communications says DFL Senator Rod Skoe is worried about the economic impact of a smoking ban. A Senate Committee is expected to vote on the bill today.

AP says Carlton County adopts a ban. St. Louis County drafts a proposal.

Forum Communications says Governor Pawlenty's school proposal gets a mixed review in the Senate.

The St. Cloud Times also says Education Commissioner Alice Seagren was pushing the education proposal in St. Cloud.

The Worthington Daily Globe says the push is on for a bioscience facility.

Congress

Congress starts debating the war in Iraq and Minnesota's delegation weighs in. AP has the story.

The Federal Times says GOP Senator Norm Coleman will try to cut an electronic booking system at the Pentagon's Defense Travel System.

DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar wants to push tougher efforts to reduce global warming in the farm bill. AP has the story.

The Hill says DFL Congressman Keith Ellison's office called the cops on Tom Tancredo's cigar.

The Star Tribune mentions GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann's criticism of the five day workweek in Politico. The rundown also mentions DFL Congressman Keith Ellison's efforts to keep the election process clean and Norm Coleman's efforts to create a panel on entitlement solvency.

DFL Congressman Collin Peterson will hold a town hall meeting in Morris later this month.

2008

Al Franken, a DFLer, will announce his senate intentions on his radio show today. AP has a preview.

Roll Call handicaps Franken's candidacy and Minnesota's Senate race (subscription required).

Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney begins his run for president. Former GOP Congressman Vin Weber backs him.

Stateline says a proposal calling for regional primaries has been revived. The DFL and GOP state party chairs (along with others) are expected to hold a news conference on Thursday to push for a June primary.

The Daily Digest: 2-15-07

Posted at 8:49 AM on February 15, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

There's plenty of stuff in the digest today. So we're starting with the Legislature and going from there.

The Pi Press says an attempt to weaken the smoking ban proposal in a Minnesota Senate committee has failed. But the Star Tribune says it still hit some snags.

The Pi Press and MPR take a look at some of the immigration proposals at the Legislature.

Forum Communications and the Star Tribune have stories on the college student rally against rising debt.

The Mankato Free Press says Mankato schools will offer Chinese in the fall.

The state is expected to approve an oil deal pipeline says the Star Tribune.

AP has details on Pawlenty's proposal to shutdown DOER.

Pawlenty was in Brainerd on Tuesday touting his education initiatives.

AP says a bill calling for greater disclosure on campaign ads is moving through the House and Senate.

Pawlenty and DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar will attend Minnesota's prayer breakfast in April.

The New York Times focuses on a bill that would push parity between the sexes.

Congress

1st District DFL Congressman Tim Walz is mentioned in this The Hill story on PA Congressman Patrick Murphy.

The Christian Science Monitor has a story on the talking points and props that House members are using in their Iraq speeches. It mentions that Walz spoke about military experience.

You can listen to all of the Iraq speeches here.

The Washington Post says GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad was almost apologetic in his speech on Iraq.

NPR, AP, the Washington Times and the Hill say he's supporting the anti-surge resolution.

AP quotes him as saying the U.S. needs to get back to the original mission.

The Weekly Standard calls Ramstad a "MoveOn" Republican.

The Star Tribune has text of Ramstad's speech, Kline's speech and Oberstar's speech.

The Chicago Tribune has a story about Russian nuclear material and the possibility it could get into the wrong hands. GOP Senator Norm Coleman comments on the lack of radiation detectors on the borders.

Ramstad's mental health parity bill also advances says the Providence Journal.

Fox News has a story on Kline's opposition to the union card check bill.

The Star Tribune picks up on yesterday's story involving DFL Congressman Keith Ellison's complaint of cigar smoke.

2008

Al Franken is in. MPR, AP, the Pi Press, Politico, the NY Times, CQ, WCCO-TV and the Star Tribune have stories.

The Star Tribune has the text of his statement.

Smart Politics say Franken and fellow DFLer Mike Ciresi trail Coleman in a Survey USA poll.

Franken also had dinner with some supporters says Susan with Clotheslineblog.

2008 GOP Convention
MPR wonders if the 2008 GOP Convention will displace the homeless.

The Daily Digest: 2-16-07

Posted at 10:19 AM on February 16, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Nothing gets the blood boiling like a good argument over per diem. There appears to be a showdown coming on per diem in the Minnesota Senate. The Pi Press and the Star Tribune have stories.

There is another push for an earlier primary. AP, Forum Communications and the Star Tribune have stories.

Two House Republicans introduce legislation to prosecute 13 year olds as adults. The Star Tribune and Pi Press have stories.

Governor Pawlenty makes his recommendations for the U of M Board of Regents.

Forum Communications has a story on the vet funding package proposed by DFL Senator Jim Vickerman.

WCCO-TV Reality Checks the smoking ban.

The TV station also writes about the effort to require the HPV vaccine for 12 year old girls. I would take issue with Esme's belief that the Legislature will pass the bill this year. There's plenty of discussion against even hearing the bill in committee.

Attorney General Lori Swanson is going after fixed billing. The Star Tribune and MPR have stories.

Congress

The war in Iraq dominates Congress. The Star Tribune has a story on the speeches by DFL Rep. Keith Ellison, DFL Rep. Tim Walz and GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann speeches on Iraq.

The Winona Daily News says Walz is looking for answers in Iraq.

The L.A. Times mentions Walz in this story on Iraq war resolution.

The VA is planning a second investigation into a marine's suicide. GOP Congressman John Kline is mentioned in this story.

You can listen to all of the Iraq floor speeches here. MPR's Midday program will also replay them today.

The Star Tribune says DFL Congressman Keith Ellison missed the deadline to file his state campaign finance reports. Ellison was a state lawmakers before being elected to Congress.

Bloomberg reports on Fed Chair Ben Bernanke. DFL Congressman Keith Ellison says "he's not dissatisfied" with Bernanke.

DFL Congressman Collin Peterson and the other House Ag members start talking about the Farm Bill.

There's also a push to add disaster aid to the Farm Bill.

The Hill writes about a Bush Administration proposal that is creating some acrimony between commercial airliners and other aviation interests. DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar is mentioned.

The Duluth News Tribune says Oberstar suggests moving the Duluth Airport.

GOP Senator Norm Coleman offers a plan for rural health care. Forum Communications and AP have stories.

Coleman will take those talking points on the road today.

DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar proposes a tax relief package.

2008

MPR reports that Norm Coleman is setting his sights on Al Franken. Check out a fundraising letter he sent out.

Franken spent his first full day of the campaign talking health care and meeting with the press corps. AP says his first issue is universal health care. AP also has analysis on Franken's candidacy.

Franken was also on MPR's Midday program.

WCCO Reality Checks Al Franken's money and sits down with Mike Ciresi.

Ciresi may have read this Wall Street Journal analysis on self-financed candidates.

Larry Sabato handicaps the senate race as does the fix.

CQ says the DCCC names Walz to their "frontline seats" in '08.

Captain's Corner interviews Governor Pawlenty about Arizona Senator John McCain.

Have a nice weekend. There will not be a digest on Monday because of the President's Day Holiday.

The Daily Digest: 2-20-07

Posted at 8:39 AM on February 20, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Happy Fat Tuesday.

The Minnesota House overwhelmingly backs a renewable energy standard. The measure now goes to Governor Pawlenty who is expected to sign it. MPR, the Star Tribune, the Pi Press, Forum Communications and AP have stories.

A committee in the Minnesota Senate puts an exemption on the smoking ban proposal. The Star Tribune, the Pi Press, Forum Communications, MPR and AP have stories.

The Senate votes to keep kids up to 8 in booster seats and also votes to allow ticket scalping.

There's a proposal to tax face lifts. AP and the Pi Press have stories.

The Star Tribune says there could be a change in the way judges are selected in Minnesota.

There's a push for pay equity between men and women.

The Star Tribune says food stamps are going unused.

The Pi Press takes a look at a mileage tax proposal. DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar, who chairs the U.S. House Transportation Committee, will also testify before state lawmakers today.

The Pi Press has a story on how baby boomers want to be independent and there are lawmakers and companies who want to help them.

The Star Tribune says the Neighborhood Revitalization Program in Minneapolis is set for renewal but is also facing some resistance from Gov. Pawlenty and some lawmakers.

The Pi Press writes about the need for early ed but lawmakers aren't sure the state can afford all of it.

Forum Communications also takes a look at all day K.

Forum and the St. Cloud Times also say there is a push for a new state GI bill.

The Winona Daily News says there is a push to pass some farm bills this session.

KARE-11 has a story on the push to allow wine in grocery stores.

Congress

AP says GOP Senator Norm Coleman tries to remove a provision that labels Hmong refugees who fought in Vietnam as terrorists.

Coleman also went to Crookston to discuss his health care proposal.

Coleman also joins Illinois Senate (and presidential candidate) Barack Obama in reducing offshore tax havens. The Washington Post has the story.

AP says Coleman voted in support of a bill that would criticize President Bush's troop surge plan but it still doesn't pass.

There's a push to get Congressional approval of the DM&E line.

WCCO says DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar wants to help elderly caregivers. She made an appearance in West St. Paul.

Klobuchar will also speak at an Emily's List gathering in March.

She also wants tougher restrictions on the internet to keep children safe.

DFL Congressman Tim Walz criticizes President Bush for not doing enough for the nation's veterans.

Politico says conservatives are targeting war critics in Congress like GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad.

Ramstad also wants all kids to have health coverage.

DFL Congressman Keith Ellison was in Detroit for a state of the race convention.

GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann defends her vote on the Iraq war resolution on WCCO.

Citizens for against Government Waste name DFL Congressman Collin Peterson porker of the month.

The Star Tribune says Peterson is also upset he can't fly his plane because of Congressional restrictions.

2008

The Star Tribune, Forum Communications and the Pi Press have stories on Al Franken and his trip to the Iron Range over the weekend. KTTC also says Franken was in Rochester.

Minnesota Monitor has an interview with Franken.

MNCampaign Report says Coleman's campaign website put up some White House talking points on their website.

DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez tells Beltrami DFLers that an earlier
primary is necessary and will probably be moved to June. Forum Communications has the story.

U of M President Bob Bruininks says former VP Al Gore may get an honorary doctorate at the U of M for his work on climatology.

The Daily Digest: 2-21-07

Posted at 8:24 AM on February 21, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

It's Ash Wednesday and the digest is making sacrifices. We promise not to say anything snarky throughout the entire posting. There are others who are making sacrifices or asking others to sacrifice.

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar told a joint House/Senate Committee that Minnesotans need to sacrifice a little more in gas tax money to get more federal funding. Gov. Pawlenty says folks have sacrificed enough. AP, MPR, the Pi Press and Forum Communications have stories.

DFL House Speaker Margaret Kelliher says her caucus will have to sacrifice total health care reform this year but will focus on the issue in 2008. She made those comments on MPR's Midday program.

The St. Cloud Times says a few state lawmakers want the state to sacrifice some money so counties aren't footing the entire bill when it comes to jailing inmates.

KARE-11 and MPR say some folks are worried that too many people are sacrificing their food stamps. They want to cut food stamp red tape and ensure people are eating.

AP says Governor Pawlenty signed the Great Lakes water compact. The proposal would require states and other outside entities to sacrifice and not take water from the Great Lakes.

MPR says farmers with wind turbines on their lansd are excited about the 25 by 25 plan. Environmentalists hope the plan causes a reduction in carbon emissions.

Ok, I'm going to have to sacrifice the sacrifice comments since I ran out of ideas.

A judicial panel is proposing retention elections for judges. MPR and the Star Tribune have stories.

The U.S. Supreme court rules that the health impact fee is constitutional.

KARE-11 says the Twins stadium is on shaky ground.

The Pi Press says former DFL Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson will seek a regent seat with the U of M.
UPDATE: I missed the Mesabi Daily News stories that focused on Gov. Pawlenty's visit to the Iron Range.

Congress

The Hill mentions GOP Senator Norm Coleman in a story on vulnerable House Republicans and Iraq.

Coleman also presents his health care plan to Sauk Centre.

DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar will be in Albert Lea.

DFL Congressman Tim Walz holds a rally for union workers.

GOP Congressman Jim Ramstad will be in Palo Alto today to attend a mental health hearing.

GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann is holding an open house in Woodbury tonight.

DFL Congressman Keith Ellison will speak at the U of M law school on Thursday.

The Fergus Falls Daily Journal says DFL Congressman Collin Peterson wants border travel restrictions.

2006
Governing has some analysis of the campaign spending in last year's governor's race. The most expensive race in the state's history is considered frugal.

2008
The Star Tribune says DFL Congressman Keith Ellison is backing Illinois Senator Barack Obama for president.

Other
The Rochester Post Bulletin says DM&E foes are suing to take a look at the financials.

The Daily Digest: 2-22-07

Posted at 8:47 AM on February 22, 2007 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Daily Digest

Happy Birthday Dr. J!

The Minnesota Senate votes to keep their per diem increase as the public watches with baited breath. The Star Tribune, MPR, the Pi Press, AP, Forum Communications and Fox9 have stories.

Pete and repeat were on a fence. Repeat fell off. Who fell off? That's what is going on with the Labor Day school opening debate. A committee in the Minnesota Senate approved a bill that would repeal the state law that forbids schools to open before Labor Day. The Pi Press, AP, the Star Tribune and Forum Communications have stories.

A same Senate committee also approved a cyber bullying proposal.

A House Committee discusses tuition reciprocity.

The Pi Press and MPR have more stories on the HPV vaccine. The bill's author is changing the measure.

MPR also has a story on the environment issues at the Legislaure.

The House Commerce Committee holds a hearing on a proposed change to the predatory pricing law so some drugs can be sold at a cheaper price. MPR says small pharmacies are worried about the bill.

The Pi Press says one of the founders of Greenpeace say nukes are green.

Forum Communications says legislative leaders seem to be on board on a sales tax increase in Bemidji but the Senate may vote to block funding for a hockey center in St. Cloud.

The St. Cloud Times says a bill to aid veterans gets through a House committee.

Gov. Pawlenty was up north earlier this week. Here's a story on his visit.

GOP Rep. Laura Brod of New Prague has a letter to the editor saying identity theft and fraud are more common so there need to be protections to the election system. She questions why Secretary of State Mark Ritchie doesn't want to require photo ids at the polls.

Congress

An antiwar group is established in Minnesota and supporters say they'll lobby Minnesota's delegation.

The Redwood Falls Gazette covers GOP Sen. Norm Coleman's visit to New Ulm that focused on health care.

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar tells the Winona Daily News that she'll work for tuition breaks, says Red Wing shoe is an example and makes a stop in Rochester.

Klobuchar also talks ag policy in Worthington with DFL Rep. Tim Walz.

MPR also has a story on a farm bill hearing with Walz hears suggestions on the next Farm Bill.

Walz says he'll try to get funding for a Goodview radium treatment plant.

GOP Rep. Jim Ramstad was in California to push for mental health parity.

The New York Times also mentions Ramstad in a story saying the largest hospital chains are pushing health coverage for all.

City Hall Scoop says DFL Rep. Betty McCollum is considering an appropriation that would send District Energy's lines underneath downtown St. Paul.

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann will hold an open house at her office tonight (I incorrectly reported that the event was yesterday)

The Arizona Daily Star says the switch to switchgrass isn't so easy. DFL Rep. Collin Peterson is mentioned.

Peterson also says the farm bill will have less money for commodities because of high price projections.

2008

The Mankato Free Press says DFLer Al Franken is trying to use his humor seriously.

He was also in Albert Lea.

The New York Times says Franken is one the wannabe politicians who wrote a book. It's all the rage with political types.

A CBS poll also says voters are divided over celebrity candidates (read Al Franken).

The Star Tribune picks up on a Minnesota Daily story that asks if former VP Al Gore will get an honorary degree at the U of M.

Roger Simon plays make believe with the '08 presidential race and believes Arizona Senator John McCain will win. Guess who is McCain's VP in Simon's dreams? Simon is the chief political columnist for Politico. Funny, he didn't mention my 2008 record breaking lottery jackpot win in his land of make believe. Oh, that was MY make believe world. Sigh.

Comment on this post

The Daily Digest:2-23-07

Posted at 12:27 PM on February 23, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

The Digest was a little bit of a sleepy head this morning. We just didn't have the energy to get going. Did someone say energy? Gov. Pawlenty signed the renewable energy bill yesterday. MPR, the Star Tribune, the Pi Press and AP have stories.

Pawlenty also offered a fit workplace initiative today.

A bill in the Minnesota Senate calls for a greater look of 3M chemicals.

MPR has a story on a proposal to regulate body piercing.

Pawlenty and others in the National Governors Association praise Ford Motor Company. Pawlenty will be at NGA meetings this weekend through Tuesday and will attend a Republican Governors Association fundraiser featuring President Bush.

Winona State University's president will also attend the NGA meetings.

A ticket scalping bill is moving in the Minnesota House. I have really really good seats to sell for the next committee hearing.

The House Commerce Committee is taking comments on the smoking ban proposal.

The Mankato Free Press says Pawlenty is standing firm on a gas tax increase.

An Anoka-Hennepin school board member calls Pawlenty's education plan a bunch of "gimmicks."

$4 drugs gets out of a House committee.

Congress

GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann tells the St. Cloud Times that Iran is going to get half of Iraq. Here's the podcast. Here's the write-up from the Big Question.

AP says Minnesota's Congressional delegation has scaled back their privately paid travel.

The Winona Daily News says DFL Rep. Tim Walz says he wants the national guard given back to governors.

Walz also wants to rename a veterans clinic and will discuss global warming next week.

The Asian American Press says DFL Congresswoman Betty McCollum signed on to a bill that would provide grants to institutions of higher education for their efforts to improve and expand services targeting Asian American and Pacific Islander students.

Several lawmakers are still trying to keep the spy plane in Minnesota.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison gave a speech to the U of M law school. You can listen to it here.

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson says Ag Secretary Mike Johanns thinking is "misguided."

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar outlines his Great Lakes agenda.

2008

The Pi Press says DFL Rep. John Lesch says he's thinking about running for the U.S. Senate against Norm Coleman.

The Herald Review says Democrat Al Franken visited Nashwauk.

Have a nice weekend.

The Daily Digest: 2-26-07

Posted at 8:31 AM on February 26, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

Gov. Pawlenty and state lawmakers are eagerly waiting for the February forecast number to be released on Wednesday. Pawlenty is currently in Washington D.C. attending the National Governors Association winter meeting. The AP says governors are worried about National Guard deployments. Pawlenty says the Bush Administration has been listening to their concerns.

The AP says Pawlenty will also meet with Guard officials today.

The New York Times says Pawlenty is one of several governors concerned about federal budget cuts to health care for children.

The Star Tribune says DFL Secretary of State Mark Ritchie wants to register voters when they get their driver's licenses.

WCCO says Pawlenty wants Minnesota kids to get fit.

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen wants to form an India Center at the U of M.

KARE-11 says a rise in hybrid vehicles could cause some trouble for road funding.

The St. Cloud Times interviews GOP Sen. Michelle Fischbach.

The Star Tribune also documents concern in the east Metro about the drinking water as a result of the 3M chemicals found in wells.

Congress

GOP Sen. Norm Coleman will be on MPR's Midday program today at 11 am.

Coleman tells conservative columnist Robert Novak that he doesn't think they should go rewrite history on Iraq.

ABC News says equipment for National Guard troops is getting worn out. Pawlenty says he's been assured that it will be addressed.

The Rochester Post Bulletin says legislation trying to stop DM&E faces long odds.

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar is headed to Missouri next week.

KTTC says DFL Rep. Tim Walz will talk global warming this week.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison will talk predatory lending today in Minneapolis.

The St. Cloud Times says GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann backs off her comments on Iran. There are other stories in an earlier post but the Times had the interview so they get another link.

USA Today says federal lawmakers still receive exemptions for some trips. DFL Rep. Collin Peterson is mentioned.

Peterson also plays a gig in Arizona and hails the potential of ethanol.

2008
The New York Times says Gov. Pawlenty urges moderation when it comes to picking a GOP presidential candidate.

AP says national candidates are leaning on governors like Pawlenty.

But the Washington Post says the influence among governors is waning.

The Politico says there's plenty of politicking at the NGA Winter Meetings.

Stu Rothenberg wonders how much race will impact the '08 elections. DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is mentioned.

I was watching 60 minutes last night and there was Al Franken in a profile on Bill O'Reilly.

Human Events lists the best quotes from Al Franken (a DFLer challenging GOP Sen. Norm Coleman). Reporters hit the print key. UPDATE: I just was on the phone with a Franken aide (on a different topic) and he says #8 on the list is false. It was taken from a comedic bit. I'm told Franken never spoke to a technical college in Connecticut.

Franken stopped at the Don Pablos in Fergus Falls.

AP says state Rep. John Lesch is thinking about running for a U.S. Senate seat. The article also mentions that Lesch visited Iraq by himself last year.

MNPublius says former state sen. and Pawlenty chief of staff David Gaither is thinking about challenging GOP Rep. Jim Ramstad in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District.

Stu Rothenberg has house ratings on the 1st and the 6th.

The Daily Digest: 2-27-07

Posted at 10:49 AM on February 27, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

The federal government rejects a public loan for the DM&E rail line. Norm Coleman breathes a sigh of relief. Tim Walz smiles and the Mayo Clinic asks "Who's the biggest, baddest brother on the block?" MPR, AP, the Mankato Free Press, the Star Tribune and the Rochester Post Bulletin havs stories.

AP says businesses like Thomson West and the Mall of America are hoping for tax relief.

AP says theirs is a proposal to give tax breaks for healthy vending machines.

The Star Tribune has a story on a bill that deals with criminal expungement.

A tougher smoking ban proposal goes to the Senate floor. The Star Tribune and the Pi Press have stories.

Pawlenty and other governors want to get tough on greenhouse gases.

Pawlenty quoted in the Kansas City Star on his mileage tax proposal

A group of mayors and state lawmakers will propose their transportation tax today.

Congress

GOP Sen. Norm Coleman says he won't support the reworking of the 2002 war authorization vote.

CQ says the 110th Congress is an "old boys club with a twist." It mentions DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Folks in Louisiana are hoping Klobucar supports an independent commission to study the levee failures in New Orleans.

Congress is set to vote on the "Free Choice Act" says Workday Minnesota. GOP Rep. John Kline writes his opposition at townhall.

3rd District Congressman Jim Ramstad is in Pennsylvania today talking mental health parity.

The Hill says the House Ethics task force will operate privately for now. DFL Rep. Betty McCollum is on the task force.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison has been nominated for a freedom flame award in Selma on March 3rd.

The St. Cloud Times says GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann needs to explain her comments on Iran.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar says he doesn't support privatization of roads and bridges.

2008
AP says Pawlenty wants the GOP to get more aggressive on the issues.

David Strom, with the Taxpayers League, says McCain's Minnesota leadership team isn't impressive.

The Daily Digest: 2-28-07

Posted at 9:16 AM on February 28, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

There are plenty of forecasts in the news today. There's the wintry weather forecast for Minnesota. The February forecast which lawmakers will use as their budget blueprint and there's the economic forecast which could make things interesting for the 2008 elections. But the digest leads with three people dying at the Minneapolis Veterans Home. The Star Tribune and the Pi Press have stories.

Minnesota Finance officials release the February forecast today. The Pi Press, the Star Tribune and the AP have look aheads. Guess what? Most folks are calling for restraint.

Two lawmakers and a handful of metropolitan mayors want a half cent sales tax in the metro area for transportation projects. MPR, the Pi Press and the Star Tribune have stories.

The Star Tribune says the Mall of America wants a $234 million tax break package.

The Pi Press says most senators who voted against per diem are now taking it.

AP says a cloning ban was included in the stem cell bill. The bill moved through the House Higher Ed Committee.

The Star Tribune comes to the HPV vaccine story a few weeks late.

MPR has a story on a bill that would ban foreign made flags.

There was also a hearing on a bill that allows for bathroom breaks and a bill that requires parental approval for kids who want body piercings.

AP has a story on the push for domestic partner benefits.

A panel rejects three of Pawlenty's regent picks. Former DFL Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson says he wants the job.

WCCO and KARE-11 says students rallied for the DREAM Act.

Experts warn that the state needs to prepare for the aging boomer.

Pawlenty enjoys a nice dinner in Washington, GOP Sen. Norm Coleman gets a mouse award and DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar visits the Big Easy. Here's the rundown.

The Duluth News Tribune says DFL Rep. Tom Rukavina says a bill meant to help a friend wasn't serious. The story follows last week's story in the Tower Timberjay.

Congress

AP says Coleman doesn't think the candidate for ambassador to Belgium should not be disqualified because he gave money to the Swift Boat for Veterans group.

Coleman also signs onto a bill that allows Illegal immigrants who lost loved ones on 9/11 could become legal residents.

Coleman also backs a bill that calls for the federal government to study the viability of driver's licenses between the U.S. and Canadian border.

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar will speak at Emily's List convention.

The Washington Post says South Dakota Senator John Thune's railway link (he was a lobbyist for DM&E) may have doomed the loan.

GOP Rep. John Kline honors Chaskans.

The Mankato Free Press says Kline's grilling of Defense Secretary Robert Gates inspired the Mankato Symphony Orchestra to play for troops in the Iraq.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is on his way to Selma this weekend.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz says he could support DM&E if they reassess the proposal.

2008

The DSCC raises more than their GOP counterpart (Norm Coleman sighs).

Politico says Barack Obama is looking for Congressional support. DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is mentioned.

The Chicago Sun Times calls Ellison an "Obama whip."