The Daily Digest: 10-8-2007

Posted at 8:16 AM on October 8, 2007 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Daily Digest

A Star Tribune poll says a majority of those polled say there's no reason to rush the I-35W bridge. They also oppose a gas tax increase.

The Pi Press has an interesting story on how MnDOT is making the argument that they can't release bridge records because it's a matter of national security.

The federal highway administration says Minnesota can ask for emergency bridge money.

Confused on all of this money stuff regarding the bridge? Here's a backgrounder.

DFLers continue to question Carol Molnau's work as Transportation Commissioner.

The St. Cloud Times takes a look at per diem payments.

The Pi Press says more rapists and sex offenders are locked up but county officials say the state isn't picking up its share of the tab.

Gov. Pawlenty makes stops in Owatonna (to tour flooded areas) and Central Minnesota (to name a judge and talk SEED). He is headed to Vermont tonight to campaign for Arizona Senator John McCain. A campaign spokeswoman says Pawlenty will be in Washington DC tomorrow for a National Infrastructure Advisory Council meeting.

Forum Communications says there is a broad coalition ready to push for the passage of a sales tax hike for arts, cultural programs and the environment.

The Albert Lea Tribune has a story on why so many school districts are seeking a levy referendum.

The Mankato Free Press says DFL Rep. Tom Rukavina (who chairs the House Higher Ed Committee) got an earful during a tour in Mankato.

Lloydletta says MN NOW is calling on GOP Rep. Mark Olson to resign.

Congress

61% of those polled in a Star Tribune poll say things are going very badly or badly in Iraq. But, like Congress, they don't agree on the next step.

President Bush singles out Minnesota's SCHIP program (because it funds more adults than children).

Gov. Pawlenty was one of many GOP governors who did not urge President Bush to sign SCHIP.

The mental health parity bill is gaining steam in Congress.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison talks to MPR about observing Ramadan and visiting the White House for an iftar dinner.

A promised cattle tracking system is still on paper even though the Mad Cow scare started four years ago. Peterson says he's given up on the program until a new administration is in power.

Food safety advocates are threatening to stall the Farm Bill. Peterson is mentioned.

Oberstar supports an economic development commission bill that passed the House.

2008

The DFL candidates debated the issues on Friday. The Star Tribune and MPR have stories.

Franken will take a college tour this week. One of the places is St. Olaf.

A columnist with the conservative Human Events says he's taking Franken seriously.

The Fix says the 3rd will be a headache for the GOP.

Edina Mayor Jim Hovland will run for the seat as a Democrat.

Several unions and interest groups target GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann on her SCHIP vote.

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