Capitol View: August 18, 2009 Archive

Pawlenty says Favre signing won't change stadium debate

Posted at 1:00 PM on August 18, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (2 Comments)

Gov. Tim Pawlenty says quarterback Brett Favre's arrival in Minnesota today to sign with the Minnesota Vikings, is "fantastic."

Pawlenty weighed in on the news following a speech to a manufacturing group in North Oaks. He told reporters that he thinks the Vikings season will be fun and exciting.

"I think had they not brought in Brett Favre they would have had a season where they maybe get into the playoffs and got knocked out early, if even that," Pawlenty said. "This gives us a chance to go even further."

Pawlenty expects fan interest in the Vikings will increase dramatically this season with the addition of Favre. But he doesn't expect any changes in the stadium debate at the State Capitol. Pawlenty is not seeking a third term in 2010. He's also not interested in pushing for a new stadium in his last session as governor.

"The Vikings are really important to the state of Minnesota, Pawlenty said. "They bring people a lot of fun and a lot of joy. But we have to set priorities and put first things first. And so, with the recession and all the budget challenges the country and Minnesota is facing, I don't think we can turn to the taxpayers and say now we need you to pay for a billion dollar Vikings stadium at the time. It has to be on the back burner."

Pawlenty says his office always keeps lines of communication open with the Vikings. He says he doesn't know of any imminent plan or proposal coming from the team.

Comment on this post