Polinaut Category Archive: Campaign 2010

On the stump...

Posted at 4:47 PM on November 22, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

It's a short week for most of the candidates for governor. Here's where they'll be:

Pat Anderson (GOP):
No public events scheduled for this week.

Tom Bakk (DFL):
Tuesday, Nov. 24 - Meet-and-greet, 11:30 a.m., Timberlake Lodge, 144 SE 17th St., Grand Rapids; Meet-and-greet, 4 p.m., Coffee Corner, 502 S 2nd St., Princeton; Congressional Dist. 3 and Congressional Dist. 5 Gubernatorial Forum, 7 p.m., Hopkins Center for the Arts, 111 Main St., Hopkins

Leslie Davis (GOP):
Friday, Nov. 27, Aitkin Fish House, Aitkin, Minnesota

Mark Dayton (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a schedule.

Tom Emmer (GOP):
Friday, Nov. 27, Aitkin Fish House Parade. 1:00 PM, Aitkin, MN

Matt Entenza (DFL):
Tuesday, Nov. 24, Retired Teachers Chapter 59 meeting, 12pm, 67 8th Ave. NE, Minneapolis; CD3/CD5 Gubernatorial Debate, 7pm, Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Main St., Hopkins

Susan Gaertner (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.
Tuesday, 11/24, 7-9p, CD3/5 & SD44 DFL Candidate Forum, Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Main St., Hopkins, MN 55343

Bill Haas (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

David Hann (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Phil Herwig (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL):
Sunday, Nov.22, Meet & Greet with Margaret, Acoustic Café, 77 Lafayette Street, Winona, 11:30AM; Meet & Greet with Margaret, Perkin's Restaurant & Bakery, 2215 E Main Street, Albert Lea, 2:30pm; Meet & Greet with Margaret, 222 E Blue Earth Ave, Fairmont,5:00PM
Tuesday, Nov. 24, CD3/5 Gubernatorial Debate, 7pm, Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Main Street, Hopkins

Steve Kelley (DFL):
Sunday, Nov.22,1:00PM: Stonewall DFL meeting, DFL Headquarters, 330 E Plato Blvd. St. Paul
Tuesday, November 24, 6:00PM - CD3/5 Gubernatorial Debate, Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Main St., Hopkins

John Marty (DFL):
Monday, Nov. 23, Rep Mindy Greiling's & The Hanson's Marty Party, 3321 Edward Street NE Minneapolis, 55418, 7pm
3. 11/24
Tuesday, 11/24, 3rd and 5th CD DFL Gubernatorial Debate, Hopkins Center for the Arts 1111 Mainstreet Hopkins, MN, 6:30pm

Tom Rukavina (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.
Monday, 11/23, Tabling at UMD campus
Tuesday, 11/24, 12 pm, Meeting with "Ely Tuesday Group" at Grand Ely Lodge, 6 pm Gubernatorial Debate at the Hopkins Center for the Performing Arts

R.T. Rybak (DFL):
Tuesday, Nov. 24, 7 PM, CD3/CD5/SD44 Gubernatorial Debate, 1111 Main St, Hopkins MN

Marty Seifert (GOP):
Friday, Nov. 27, Friday, Nov 27: Aitkin Fish House Parade. 1:00 PM, Aitkin, MN

Paul Thissen (DFL):
Sunday, 11/22, 2-3:30p, Mahnomen Meet &Greet, Red Apple Cafe, 116 N Main St, Mahnomen, MN 56557; 4:30-6p, Bagley Meet & Greet, Fireside Grill, Hwy 2 W, Bagley, MN 56621; 6:30-8p, Meet & Greet at Sen. Moe's Home, 17444 Park Ave SE Erskine, MN 56535
Monday, 11/23 - 9-10:30a, Red Lake Falls Meet & Greet, Memories Cafe, 217 8th St SE, Red Lake Falls, MN 56750; 11:30a-1p, Warren Meet & Greet, Melody's Cafe, 510 N. Main St Warren, MN 56762; 3:30-5p, Hallock Meet & Greet, Caribou Grill, 225 Broadway St Hallock, MN 56728; 6:30-8p, Roseau Meet & Greet, Roseau Diner, 806 3rd St NW, Roseau, MN 56751
Tuesday, 11/24 - 9-10:30a, Detroit Lakes Meet & Greet, Sunflower Hill Coffee & Gifts, 808 Washington Ave # 19C, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501; 7-9p, CD3/5 & SD44 DFL Candidate Forum, Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Main St., Hopkins, MN 55343
Wednesday, 11/25- 12-1p, Online Video Chat (details at www.PaulThissen.com)

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I-P keeps ban on PAC $, ditches cross party endorsement

Posted at 5:43 PM on November 21, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor, U.S. House

The Independence Party announced today that the party's delegates decided to keep a ban in place that would forbid the party from taking donations from special interests also known as Political Action Committees.

The delegates also voted to ditch a procedure that allowed the I-P to endorse candidates from other parties. The party allowed for such action in 2008, most notably with 6th District DFLer El Tinklenberg. The endorsement at the time didn't mean much since another candidate, Bob Anderson, filed as a member of the I-P and was on the November ballot. Republican Michele Bachmann ended up winning the election.

Here's the release from the Independence Party:

Independence Party Shouts "System Sucks!"

Party definitively differentiates itself from the two entrenched political parties

At its State Party Convention in Brooklyn Park, MN, Independence Party delegates overwhelmingly reaffirmed the Party's ban on accepting special interest money (PAC money) and eliminated cross-endorsement of candidates representing other political parties. State Party Chair, Jack Uldrich, said "Today's actions clarify and amplify the fact that the Independence Party is the only true reform party."

While the ban on accepting special interest money has been a core tenant of the Party since its inception in 1992, Governor Pawlenty's elimination of the popular Political Contribution Refund (PCR) program forced delegates to confront the prospect that all future candidates will now be allowed to accept special interest money. In response, they voted overwhelmingly to "double down" and ban all special interest contributions...period.

"Today's political system sucks and special interest money lies at the heart of so many problems," said Uldrich, adding "Not accepting PAC money won't make our job of electing candidates any easier but it is the right thing to do. Unlike every other political party, the Independence Party is going to live - or die - on principle."

Additionally, delegates voted to eliminate the Party's short-lived experiment in cross-

endorsement that began in 2008. "Our delegates feel that offering endorsement support to candidates of the parties that brought us this systemic mess diluted our message" stated Jack Uldrich, Independence Party Chair, "All levels of government are in need of massive reform that can only be provided by centrist candidates without special interest strings attached as opposed to puppets of the status quo." Added Uldrich, "If other political candidates want our endorsement, they are welcome to have it but they are going to have to leave their current party to get it."

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Netroots Minnesota debate

Posted at 9:03 PM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Nine of the ten DFL candidates for governor took part in a nearly two hour debate tonight in St. Paul. The Netroots Minnesota debate featured former DFL state Sen. Steve Kelley, Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner, DFL House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, former DFL state Rep. Matt Entenza, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak, DFL Rep. Tom Rukavina, DFL Rep. Paul Thissen, former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton and DFL state Sen. John Marty. DFL state Sen. Tom Bakk was not in attendance.

The debate focused on everything from reproductive rights to the expansion of the sales tax to the candidate's political heroes. You can listen to the entire debate here: Listen

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Breakdown of PCR contributions

Posted at 3:58 PM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, MN Legislature, Tim Pawlenty

The Republican Party and GOP local party units were the biggest user of a campaign program that was cut by Governor Pawlenty. The program gave donors tax refunds for part of their contributions. AP has a story here.

Here's the breakdown in Party contributions:

Republican Party and local party units - 42,469 contributions with $2,895,729 refunded.

DFL Party and local party units - 20,841 contributions with $1,107,660 refunded.

Independence Party and local party units - 175 contributions with $11,376 refunded.

Green Party and local party units- 255 contributions with $10,033 refunded.

Side note: Donors to DFL Rep. Joe Atkins, chair of the House Commerce Committee, relied the heaviest on the PCR. They received $32,960 in refunds. You can read the breakdown on candidate contributions here.

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Quist on the stump...

Posted at 3:42 PM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Republican Allen Quist announced yesterday that he's challenging DFL Rep. Tim Walz in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. We had a few problems with our audio so we didn't get Quist's entire stump speech. We did, however, get the q and a. At that point, he bashed the health care overhaul bill being debated in Congress and the proposed cap and trade bill. He said the winners in the health care bill are "big business" and the "government bureaucrats."

You can listen to it here: Listen

Side note: For those wondering, we're hoping to put up stump speeches, news conferences and other campaign related events on the blog so people have as much information as possible to make their decisions at caucuses and at the polling place.

(h/t Tim Nelson)

UPDATE: Politico is reporting that Republicans in D.C. aren't too enthused about Quist's candidacy. Not sure if that helps or hurts Quist in an endorsing convention.

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The Washington Post gauges Minnesota interest on Afghanistan

Posted at 3:24 PM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

The Washington Post visited Winona to gauge interest on the war in Afghanistan. DFL Rep. Tim Walz is heavily mentioned.

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Another union backs Kelliher

Posted at 10:38 AM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

A source with Greater MN AFSCME Council 65 says the union will back DFLer Margaret Anderson Kelliher for governor. The source declined to be identified because the news release won't be sent out until later this morning. (Update: news release is below)

AFSCME Council 65 has about 13,000 members and represents Greater Minnesota. It's much smaller than AFSCME Council 5, which has 43,000 members. That union announced last month that it's backing former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton.

This is Kelliher's third union endorsement. The 49ers announced earlier this week that it's backing the Minnesota Speaker of the House. The Minnesota Association of Professional Employees was the first union to back her when it announced its support for her.

Update: Here's the news release:

Greater Minnesota AFSCME Council 65 has endorsed Margaret Anderson Kelliher for Governor.

"Our Executive Board spent eight hours screening nine of the current candidates for governor," said George Plautz, President of AFSCME Council 65. "After hearing their views on issues of real concern to working people such as health care, education and jobs and considering who has the best chance to be elected, Anderson Kelliher was our choice," he added.

Greater Minnesota AFSCME Council 65 represents approximately 13,000 Minnesota local government, school, hospital, nursing home and non-profit employees outside the Twin Cities.

"Our members worry about how to pay for health care or whether they will be laid off on a daily basis. We need a governor who really cares about those issues and can do something about them," stated Steve Preble, Council 65 Executive Director. "We believe that person is Margaret Anderson Kelliher," Preble added.

"This was a difficult decision for our board. All of the candidates who screened would make an excellent governor and shared our values. But, when we finally had to decide, it was clear that not only would Anderson Kelliher make a terrific governor but her ability to build coalitions made her both the most electable and meant she could deliver on the issues that matter most to working people," stated Steve Preble.

All of the announced Republican and DFL candidates for governor were invited to screen before the AFSCME Council 65 Executive Board. Accepting the invitation to screen were Paul Thissen, Tom Bakk, Mark Dayton, Matt Entenza, Susan Gaertner, Tom Rukavina, John Marty and Steve Kelley. R.T. Rybak initially planned to screen but was unable to due to mayoral business.

AFSCME Council 65 is based in Nashwauk and has members in all parts of the state, from Austin to international Falls and from Moorhead to Duluth.

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Pawlenty at RGA

Posted at 5:52 PM on November 19, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Tim Pawlenty

Governor Pawlenty has been in Austin, TX for most of the week attending the Republican Governor's Association meetings. Pawlenty, who is vice-chair of the RGA, attended a news conference this afternoon with Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour and RGA Executive Director Nick Ayers.

The newser focused on why Republicans think they have a good shot at winning governor's races next year. They said the RGA has more cash on hand at this point than they spent on governor's races in 2006 (AP story).

Pawlenty, who has been out of the state all week (except for a Monday fundraiser), hasn't had a Minnesota public event on his schedule since Veterans Day (11/11). He will not be on his weekly radio show on Friday morning.

If you miss his voice, you can listen to the RGA newser here: Listen

Thanks to KUT's Ben Philpott for the audio

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49ers back Kelliher

Posted at 8:40 AM on November 19, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

The Operating Engineers Local 49 are backing DFLer Margaret Anderson Kelliher for governor. The union, which screened earlier this week, is backing Kelliher because they say she has a proven track record of "creating jobs, expanding health care and protecting middle-class Minnesotans."

The union also praised Kelliher for passing a transportation funding package and then getting the votes to override Gov. Pawlenty's veto.

"We need to get the economy working again in Minnesota. Margaret is a proven leader who has been fighting for the issues and values of our state's working men and women for years," Local 49 business manager Glen Johnson said in a news release. "The transportation bill override was the largest job-creating bill in decades, and Margaret made it happen."

The Local 49, known as the 49ers, have 13,000 members, representing Operating Engineers in Minnesota, North and South Dakota. 12,000 of those members are in Minnesota.

This is the second union endorsement for Kelliher. The Minnesota Association of Professional Employees endorsed her earlier this month.

The two unions that everyone is still wondering about (because they have the biggest political muscles of the unions that haven't yet endorsed) are the teacher's union, Education Minnesota, and SEIU.

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Quist gets in

Posted at 10:45 PM on November 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Republican Allen Quist has made his run for Congress official and will challenge DFL Rep. Tim Walz in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. Quist will be making stops in Mankato, Austin and Rochester on Thursday to announce his campaign. Here's Quist's news release:

(St. Peter, MN) - Former State Representative Allen Quist has announced that he will run against U.S. Representative Tim Walz for the First District Congressional Seat. Quist served three terms in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1982 to 1988, runs a family farm of 1200 acres with his son Andrew in rural St. Peter, and recently retired as a teacher at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato

Quist, a Republican, said his message will be simple and straightforward: "If people like what Congress is doing, they should vote for the incumbent," Quist said. "But if they believe, as I do, that Congress is headed in the wrong direction, then I will be the alternative."

According to Quist there have been three unusually important bills under consideration during this session of Congress: the $787 billion Stimulus bill, Cap and Trade, and the Health Care bill. "Representative Walz has been on the wrong side of all three," said Quist.

Quist emphasizes that government spending is totally out of control. "Just the Stimulus bill by itself added over $10,000 of new government debt for every family of four in our nation," he explained. Quist also said that present Congressional spending trends will almost double our national debt-from 40% of GDP today to 87% of D+GDP by 2020. Quist says this means, "continued high unemployment and burdening the next generation with a level of debt that will substantially reduce their quality of life."

"The Cap and Trade bill will add $6,800 per year of higher energy costs for every family of four and the Health Care bill, which is supposed to reduce medical costs, will actually increase total costs by over $100 billion each year," said Quist.

Quist added that the Health Care bill contains a huge hidden tax on the middle class and will substatnitally reduce the access senior citizens have to needed health care. "In terms of costs," Quist said, "big business is the big winner and the middle class is the big loser. American citizens of the middle class will be forced to pay the bills."

"Southern Minnesota voters have been holding Tea Party rallies and contacting Congressman Walz's office asking him not to support these wasteful government spending bills that force more government control of our lives," said Quist. "Congressman Walz continually shows by his votes that he is out of step with the voters of the First District.

###

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Senate health bill cuts medical device tax

Posted at 9:35 PM on November 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

The Senate health care overhaul bill released today reduces the size of the medical device fee in the bill. DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar's office says the size of the bill has been reduced from $38 billion to $20 billion.

"Right now we must be doing everything we can to promote job growth," said Klobuchar in a news release. "I fought to reduce the fee on medical device companies and am pleased to see that the Senate bill reduces this fee by $18 billion."

Republicans are certain to say that the medical device fee remaining in the bill is still too high. Several, including Gov. Pawlenty and GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen, want the fee completely eliminated. That being said, they don't want the health care bill passed into law either.

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Coleman's Harvard speech

Posted at 1:47 PM on November 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor, Recount, U.S. Senate

Former GOP Sen. Norm Coleman gave a speech last night to John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum at Harvard University. You can listen to his speech here:

Listen

The speech originally aired on MPR's Midday.

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Pawlenty to raise money for MN House GOP

Posted at 12:39 PM on November 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, MN Legislature, Tim Pawlenty

Gov. Pawlenty is scheduled to appear at a December fundraiser for Republicans in the Minnesota House. Here's part of the invite:

HRCC Annual Holiday Celebration featuring Gov. Tim Pawlenty

You are cordially invited to join

Governor Tim Pawlenty
House Republican Leader Kurt Zellers
&
House Republican Members

For our annual holiday celebration

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Town & Country Club
2279 Marshall Avenue
St. Paul, Minnesota

Strategy Session with Rep. Kurt Zellers
Get the latest information on our preparations for the 2010 election
4:00-5:00 PM

Private Dinner
Dinner & keynote address by Governor Tim Pawlenty
5:00-6:00 PM

Main Reception with House Republican Members
6:00-9:00 PM

Gold Sponsor: $5000 includes three tickets to the Strategy Session, three tickets for dinner & four tickets to the Main Reception

Silver Sponsor: $2500 includes two tickets for dinner & four tickets to the Main Reception

Bronze Sponsor: $1500 one ticket for dinner & four tickets to the Main Reception

$250 per person for our Main Reception

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Franken raising money for Clark in 6th district

Posted at 11:18 AM on November 18, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

U.S. Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., is backing Tarryl Clark in her 6th district congressional campaign. He's also helping the DFL state senator raise some money. Here's the letter Franken sent out on behalf of Clark:

Dear ____ ,

As I traveled across Minnesota over the last few years, I found nothing was better than campaigning with a local state legislator. They were always deeply rooted in their community - knew the owner of every shop we walked in, the family inside every house door we knocked on, and the ins and outs of every neighborhood we visited.

Senator Tarryl Clark was one of those exceptional legislators. Her ability to listen and her common sense, get-it-done attitude have allowed her to not only understand, but stand for the needs of her district. From ensuring Saint Cloud State University has the resources it needs to provide a first class education, to expanding access to early childhood education; from repairing the district's failing roads and bridges, to investing in our transportation future, especially Northstar. Tarryl has always worked with the community to stand up for the residents of her district.

And now I'm standing up for Tarryl. I hope you'll join me in supporting Tarryl's campaign for Congress against Michele Bachmann today.

She's delivered for her district as a State Senator, and she'll do the same for the residents of the 6th District as their representative in Congress.

I can tell you from experience, Tarryl is a tireless campaigner. She wins campaigns by reaching out to people of all parties, from all points of view. She engages them in a discussion about the issues, and wins them over with her ability to turn those conversations into action. Tarryl knows how to get the job done.

That's why Tarryl is the partner we need in Washington to really get things done for the 6th District.

But she needs our help to give her campaign the resources it needs to get her message out. Please join me in supporting Tarryl Clark's campaign today. Your contribution of $250, $100, $50, or whatever you can afford will ensure Tarryl can run an aggressive and winning campaign.

Sincerely,

Senator Al Franken

P.S. The eyes of the nation - and Michele Bachmann's right-wing allies - will be on this race. You can make sure Tarryl gets off to a strong start by joining Franni and me in supporting her today.

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Franken discusses health care bill

Posted at 8:24 AM on November 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. Senate

DFL Sen. Al Franken talked about the health care overhaul bill on Morning Edition this morning. He said he's continuing to fight to keep the public option in the bill and won't put a deadline on when it will pass. Franken also said he doesn't like the provision in the House bill that would eliminate the option of abortion coverage in a government national insurance exhange that's proposed in the bill.

Franken, however, wouldn't say if that was enough for him to vote against the bill.

Listen to the interview with MPR's Cathy Wurzer here:

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GOP candidates for governor debate in St. Paul.

Posted at 5:48 PM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

The Minnesota Government Relations Council held a GOP governor candidates forum this afternoon. The forty minute forum focused on government spending, taxes and the economy.

State Rep. Tom Emmer of Delano, state Sen. David Hann of Eden Prairie, former State Auditor Pat Anderson, former state rep. Bill Haas and state Rep. Marty Seifert of Marshall took part in a fifty minute forum. They discussed government spending (all say greater cuts can occur), taxes (all oppose increasing revenue but at least one - Anderson - favors raising some taxes broadening the sales tax while cutting others) and the economy (they say cutting government regulation will foster a better business climate).

The newsiest part of the forum occurred when moderator Sarah Strong asked if any of the candidates would sign a "No Tax increase pledge." All declined saying the public knows that they oppose tax increases.

You can have a listen to the forum here (note: the candidates don't identify themselves so here's the order during the first appearance: Pat Anderson, Bill Haas, David Hann, Marty Seifert, Tom Emmer):

Listen

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Paulsen tries to end TARP funding

Posted at 4:43 PM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen was unsuccessful in his attempts to end federal funding for the Troubled Asset Relief Program. In committee, Paulsen proposed an amendment that would end bailout spending through TARP by the end of 2009. The measure was defeated 37 to 30. Reuters says there is $210 billion remaining in the TARP fund.

Here's part of the release:

"Taxpayers are tired of the revolving door of bailouts and deficit spending in Washington," Paulsen said. "The inspector general overseeing the TARP program recently said it will 'almost certainly' result in a loss for taxpayers, and yet it is likely the program will extend well into next year. TARP funding is simply becoming walking-around money for the government, and today my colleagues missed an important opportunity to bring this program to a close."

Under the legislation Congress approved in the fall of 2008, the Troubled Asset Relief Program is set to expire on December 31st of this year. However, the legislation also grants the Administration the right to extend the program until October of 2010, which can be triggered by the Secretary of the Treasury sending a notification letter to Congress. Paulsen's amendment would have removed the trigger for extending TARP, officially ending the program on December 31st, 2009, and committed the remaining TARP funds to reducing the national debt.

Paulsen also announced he intends to soon introduce stand-alone legislation in the House that will mirror this amendment. Senator John Thune (R-SD) has offered a similar measure in the Senate.

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Rybak hires Tina Smith to manage his campaign.

Posted at 1:45 PM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak has hired his chief of staff, Tina Smith, to manage his campaign for governor. Jeremy Hanson, who currently serves as Rybak's communications director, will become chief of staff. John Stiles, who recently managed St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman's reelection campaign, will become Rybak's spokesman in the mayor's office.

Smith was a senior adviser to President Obama's Minnesota campaign in 2008 and served as VP of external affairs at Planned Parenthood of Minnesota before she was hired as Rybak's Chief of Staff. She also ran Walter Mondale's 2002 U.S. Senate campaign and Ted Mondale's 1998 campaign for governor.

Update: Smith sent out an e-mail to supporters giving more detail of the campaign hires:

I also want to say a word about the team coming into place for the Governor's race. Julie Hottinger will serve as Deputy Campaign Manager, with responsibility for overall campaign operations.

Julie's depth of campaign experience, from field to finance, as well as her knowledge of statewide politics, is terrific. Our finance team is lead by the effective, smart Dinah Dale, who comes to us most recently from the Franken Campaign. Our Field Director is Alex Falconner, who most recently headed up the Minneapolis Coordinated Campaign and also brings great experience and energy. His team is already working to organize for the caucuses.

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Poll shows Obama leading Pawlenty in Minnesota

Posted at 1:24 PM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Tim Pawlenty

A new St. Cloud State University poll says those polled say they would support President Obama over Governor Pawlenty in a head to head matchup. When asked "If the 2012 presidential election was held today with Barack Obama being the Democratic candidate and Tim Pawlenty being the Republican candidate, would you vote for Obama or Pawlenty?"

50 percent of those polled say they would support Obama. 39.7 percent back Pawlenty.

Right track/Wrong track
43 percent of those polled say the state is on the right track. 44 percent say the state is on the wrong track.

Top Issue facing the state of Minnesota
Health care 19%
Budget 14%
Education 13%
Unemployment 13%
Taxes at 10%

Job Approval
50.3 percent of those polled rate President Obama's job approval as excellent or pretty good while 47.4 percent rate Obama's job approval as only fair or poor.

48.5 percent of those polled rate Gov. Pawlenty's job approval as excellent or pretty good while 48.4 percent rate Pawlenty's job approval as only fair or poor.

Party breakdown
36% of those polled self identify as Democrats
26% of those polled self identify as Republicans
11% of those polled self identify as not belonging to any party..

You can read the entire poll here.

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Powers turns on congressional campaign in 2nd district

Posted at 11:18 AM on November 17, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

A roofing contractor from Burnsville says he wants to unseat Republican Congressman John Kline next year in Minnesota's 2nd district.

Dan Powers announced today that he will seek the DFL endorsement in 2010 to run against the incumbent, and he will abide by that decision. Powers considered a run against Kline in 2008, but dropped out early in the race to support Steve Sarvi. Kline is firmly opposed to budget earmarks for local projects. During a news conference, Powers said he'd take a different approach.

"First thing is I'd redefine it," Powers said. "An earmark is just an appropriation. And I think he's being very disingenuous in not representing his district by not doing everything he can. That's the straight forward part to it. He's not listening to the people in his district. He's not paying attention to their needs."

Kline spokesman Troy Young said with a year before the next election, the congressman remains focused on efforts to create jobs and reform health care.

Here's the audio from Powers' news conference: Listen

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Hackett gets in the race

Posted at 11:05 AM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Maureen Hackett, a DFLer, has announced that she's running for Congress in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District. Hackett said she got in the race because she doesn't think first-term Republican Erik Paulsen fits the district.

On the issues, Hackett said her top concern is the economy. She said she would support some sort of second stimulus bill. Hackett also said she would have voted for the health care overhaul bill that the House recently passed.

Hackett said she would abide by the DFL Party endorsement, and she has been a frequent contributor to DFL candidates. But Hackett has also donated money to independents and Republicans. Specifically, she gave to the NRCC, Independence Party candidate Dave Dillon (who ran for Congress in 2008) and Ralph Nader. Hackett said she gave primarily to DFL candidates like DFL Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, President Obama and Ashwin Madia but also likes to "reward good ideas."

Hackett was, however, a bit murky about her donations to Ralph Nader. She said she gave to Nader in 2000 but had issues with the Florida recount.

When I noted that she gave to Nader after 2000, she said "he was paying off his debts" and "I like Ralph Naders' ideas." But it looks like he may have been contributing to his 2004 campaign.

You can listen to her entire interview here: Listen

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7 GOP gov candidates to debate tonight

Posted at 6:48 AM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

All of the GOP candidates for governor will debate the issues at an event at the College of St. Benedict. You can find the details here.

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DFL gov candidates to debate issues in St. Paul

Posted at 8:42 PM on November 16, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Here's the release:

ST. PAUL, MN - All 10 DFL candidates for Minnesota Governor will participate in a gubernatorial forum at Macalester College in St. Paul on Monday, December 7 beginning at 7:00pm. The forum is coordinated and sponsored by the DFLers of Senate District 64, Congressional District 4, and the Macalester Dems. DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez will moderate the forum. Members of the public are encouraged to attend.

WHAT:Gubernatorial Forum
WHO: DFL Candidates for Governor
WHEN:December 7, 2009
7:00 - 9:00pm
WHERE: Weyerhaeuser Chapel
Macalester College

-30-

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Gov Poll: Norm Coleman leads GOP field, Dayton and Rybak running close on DFL side

Posted at 5:02 PM on November 16, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

A new Rasmussen poll shows that the race for governor in both parties is still WIDE open. It's so wide open on the GOP side that the person leading the poll isn't even in the race (yet).

Rasmussen Reports found that 50 percent of the Republicans polled say they would back former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman for governor even though he isn't even in the race. Not Sure is receiving 26 percent. State Rep. Marty Seifert is third with 11 percent.

On the DFL side, 30 percent of the DFLers polled back former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton, 30 percent back Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak. Not Sure comes in third with 20 percent support.

You can view the results here.

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DNC to target Paulsen

Posted at 1:01 PM on November 16, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

The Democratic National Committee will run radio ads this week criticizing GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen for voting against the health care overhaul bill. The DNC is targeting Republican lawmakers who represent districts that voted for President Obama in the 2008 election.

You can listen to the ad here. I'm trying to determine the size of the ad buy, where the ad will run and for how long.

Update:
I'm told the ad will run on KEEY-FM (K102) this week. They won't release the size of the buy.

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On the stump...

Posted at 7:17 PM on November 15, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Here's where the candidates for governor will be this week.

Pat Anderson (GOP):
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6-7PM -- St. John's/St. Benedict's College Republican and SD 14 Candidate Forum.
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 11:30AM - 12:30PM -- Medtronic Candidate Forum, Medtronic Mounds View facility, Mahle Auditorium (Employees only)
Friday, Nov. 20, 10:15AM - 12PM Schools for Equity in Education (SEE) Minneapolis Ramada Plaza, 1330 Industrial Boulevard.

Tom Bakk (DFL):
Sunday, Nov. 15 - 1:30 p.m., DFL Senior Caucus, 2507 E. 25th St., Minneapolis
Monday, Nov. 16 - 1:15 p.m., IBEW screening, Minneapolis
Monday, Nov. 16 - 5:45 p.m., Local 49ers screening, Minneapolis
Monday, Nov. 16 - 7 p.m., Senate Dist. 17 Central Committee Meeting, North Branch High School, 38175 Grand Ave North Branch
Wednesday, Nov. 18 - 7 p.m. Senate Dist. 49 Central Committee Meeting, Davanni's, 3430 129th Ave NW, Coon Rapids
Wednesday, Nov. 18 - After 7:30 p.m., Senate Dist. 45 Central Committee Meeting, Crystal City Hall located at 4141 Douglas Ave N, Crystal
Wednesday, Nov. 18 - After 8 p.m., Senate Dist. 44 Central Committee Meeting, St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park
Thursday, Nov. 19 - 2 p.m., AFSCME 65 screening
Thursday, Nov. 19 - 3 p.m., Meet-and-greet, Corner Bean, 927 9th Ave. S., St. Cloud
Thursday, Nov. 19 - 5 p.m., St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce Reception, M Street Cafe, 350 Market Street, St. Paul
Thursday, Nov. 19 - Southdale/Edinborough Democrats, Southdale Library, 7001 York Ave S., Edina
Saturday, Nov. 21 - Minnesota Farmers Union Gubernatorial Forum, Ramada, 1330 Industrial Blvd NE, Minneapolis

Leslie Davis (GOP):
Monday, November 16, 2009, Transportation meeting in Ramsey hosted by Sen. Jungbauer, 6:30pm
Tuesday, November 17, 2009, Forum at the College of St. Benedict's, 6:00pm, Collegeville
Saturday, November 21, 2009, Polk County forum, 9:30am, Crookston

Mark Dayton (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a schedule.

Tom Emmer (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Matt Entenza (DFL):
Monday, 11/16, Lunch with McLeod County Dems, 11:30 am, Hutch Cafe, 122 Main St S, Hutchinson, Coffee with Meeker County activists, 3pm, 1015 E Frontage Rd.,
Tuesday, 11/17, Plymouth Progressives Speaking Engagement, 7:30pm, Kelly Inn, 2705 Annapolis Lane N, Plymouth (Banquet Room)
Wednesday, 11/18, Haiv Hmong Radio (KFAI), 8:30 PM, KFAI Community Radio
Friday, 11/20, Meet and Greet in Detroit Lakes, 2pm, Brewed Awakening, 910 Washington Avenue, Detroit Lakes
Saturday, 11/21, Breakfast with Wright County Activists, 9:00am, Brook's, 1002 Highway 25 N, Buffalo, Lunch w/ Central Minnesota Activists, 11:30am, Granite City Brewery, 3945 2nd St. S., St Cloud

Susan Gaertner (DFL):
Thursday, 11/19, Minnesota HomeCare Association Fall Conference, 4pm, Crowne Plaza Minneapolis Hotel North 2200 Freeway Boulevard, Brooklyn Center
Friday, 11/20, Festival of Trees Style Show, 10AM, RiverCentre St. Paul, Minnesota Netroots Nation conference, 6pm, Hilton Garden Inn in Saint Paul
Saturday, 11/21, Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) State Convention, 11:30pm-1pm Ramada Mpls. (formerly the Four Points Sheraton) on Industrial Blvd. in Mpls

Bill Haas (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

David Hann (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Phil Herwig (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL):
Sunday, 11/15,, DFL Senior Caucus Gala, 1:30pm, Small Auditorium, The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aeries #34 Hall, 2507 East 25th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Tuesday, 11/17, Speak to Bloomington Progressives, 5:30pm, Davanni's Restaurant, 8605 Lyndale Ave S, Bloomington, MN, Speak to Plymouth Progressives, 7pm, Kelly Inn, 2705 Annapolis Lane N, Plymouth, MN
Friday, 11/20, MN Netroots Nation Gubernatorial Forum, 6pm, Hilton Garden Inn, 411 Minnesota St, St Paul, MN
Saturday, 11/21, Farmer's Union Convention, 11:30AM, Ramada Plaza, 1220 Industrial Blvd NE, Minneapolis, MN

Steve Kelley (DFL):
Sunday, 11/15, DFL Senior Caucus Autumn Gala, 1:30pm, The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aeries #34 Hall, 2507 East 25th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Monday, 11/16, Operating Engineers, Local 49 Screening, 7:30pm
Tuesday, 11/17, IBEW Screening, 9:15am, Speak at Plymouth Progressives, 8pm, Kelly Inn, 2705 North Annapolis Lane, Plymouth
Wednesday, 11/18, SD44 Central Committee Meeting, 7pm, SLP City Hall - 1st floor Community Room, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN 55416,
Thursday, 11/19, AFSCME Council 65 screening, 12:30pm, St. Cloud, Home Care Society Forum, 4pm, Crowne Plaza North 2200 Freeway Boulevard. Brookyn Center, SD39 Meeting, 7pm, West St. Paul
Friday, 11/20, Netroots Nation Speaking/Forum, 6pm, Hilton Garden Hotel , 411 Minnesota Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA 55101
Saturday, 11/21, State DFL Executive Committee Meeting, 10am, Hutchinson, MN Farmerís Union Convention, 11:30am, MFU Convention Ramada Plaza 1330 Industrial Boulevard NE, MFU Reception and dinner, 5pm

John Marty (DFL):
Sunday, 11/15, DFL Senior Caucus Autumn Gala, The Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aires #34 Hall 2507 East 25th Street Minneapolis, MN 55406, 1:30pm
Monday, 11/16, Meet w/ St.Thomas Law School Dems, St. Thomas University 1000 LaSalle Ave, Minneapolis, 12pm, Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 screening, 6pm
Wednesday, 11/18, Earl Larson Awards Ceremony ACLU, Minneapolis Club, Main Lounge 2nd Floor 8th St & 2nd Ave South, Mpls, 5:30pm
Thursday, 11/19, AFSCME Council 65 Executive Board Screening, St. Cloud, 11am, MN HomeCare Association Forum, Crowne Plaza Minneapolis Hotel North 2200 Freeway Boulevard, Brooklyn Center, MN, 4pm, SD 54 Holiday Party, 2661 Civic Center Drive, Roseville, MN, 6pm, 11/19 Edina Links Meeting, Southdale Library 70th & York Edina, MN, 7pm
Saturday, 11/21, Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) State Convention, Minneapolis Ramada 1330 Industrial Blvd NE, Minneapolis, 12pm

Tom Rukavina (DFL):
Monday, 11/16, 2009 Inver Hills Gubernatorial Candidate Forum, 1pm, Inver Hills Community College, Inver Grove Heights, Coop Network (MN/WI) Debate against Todd Berry, 4:30pm, Sheraton Bloomington, 494 and Highway 100, Bloomington
Wednesday, 11/18, Meet and Greet with supporters, 6pm, 1712 Jefferson Ave, St. Paul
Friday, 11/20, Netroots Forum,, 6pm, Hilton Garden Inn, St Paul

R.T. Rybak (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.
Wednesday, 11/18, Coalition of Greater MN Cities, 5 pm.
Thursday, 11/19, AFSCME 65 Screening, 12pm
Friday, 11/20 Netroots Gov Forum
Saturday, 11/21, MN Farmers Union State Convention, 12pm

Marty Seifert (GOP):
Tuesday, 11/17 - 6:00pm St. John's College Republican Candidate Forum, Alumni Hall at the Haehn Campus Center, St. Benedicts campus
Wednesday, 11/18 - 11:30am, Medtronic Candidate Forum, Medtronic Mounds View Campus
Thursday, 11/19 - 4:00pm, Minnesota HomeCare Association Candidate Forum, Crown Plaza North, Brooklyn Center

Paul Thissen (DFL):
Sunday, 11/15, 1:30-3:30p, DFL Senior Caucus Gala, Small Auditorium, The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aeries #34 Hall, 2507 E. 25th St Mpls, 55406
Tuesday, 11/17, 7-8p, MyDFL Legal Fundraiser, O'Gara's Bar and Grill, 164 Snelling Ave N St Paul, MN 55104
Wednesday, 11/18, 10-11:30a, Itasca County DFL Meet and Greet, DFL Office, 809 NE 4th St, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, International Falls Meet and Greet, 2:30pm, Coffee Landing Metro, 444 3rd St, International Falls, MN 56649, Baudette Meet and Greet, 5:30pm, Rosalie's Restaurant and Lounge, 1229 Main St E, Baudette, MN 56623
Thursday, 11/19, 12-1p, St. Thomas College Dems, O'Shaugnhnessy Education Center (OEC), Room 204, MN Home Care Association Candidate Forum, 4:30pm, Crown Plaza Hotel, 2200 Freeway Blvd., Brooklyn Center, Mpls. SD55 DFL Meeting, 7:45pm, Ramsey County Library, 3025 Southlawn Dr., Maplewood, MN 55109
Friday, 11/20, MN Netroots Nation Candidate Forum, 6pm, Hilton Garden Inn, 411 Minnesota St., St. Paul, MN 55101
Saturday, 11/21, 68th Annual MN Farmers Union State Convention, 11:30am, Ramada Plaza, 1330 Industrial Blvd NE Minneapolis, MN 55413, MN Farmers Union Reception & Banquet, Ramada Plaza, 5pm, 1330 Industrial Blvd NE Minneapolis, MN 55413

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Fact check: Bakk on unemployment figures

Posted at 3:43 PM on November 13, 2009 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

DFLer Tom Bakk said during a recent news conference that his main priority is jobs and said he was troubled by some recent unemployment figures:

"When you hear me talk about jobs being my he number one priority in my governor's campaign, I'm speaking from the heart as someone who has personally experienced it. And the fact that 170,000 Minnesotans tomorrow are going to get an unemployment check is painful for me. And further, 500 people tomorrow are going to get their last check. Their last check. And that has happened every week in the month of October. More than 500 people got their last unemployment check." Listen

Kirsten Morrell, with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says 177,000 Minnesotans collected unemployment benefits in the week ending November 7th. She also said Bakk's statement that roughly 500 Minnesotans exhaust their unemployment benefits each week has been true. Here are the numbers. Listen

Bakk made his comments on November 5th. Since then, President Obama signed a bill into law that extends unemployment benefits an additional 14 weeks. So, even people who had used up all 79 weeks of benefits and extensions may now qualify for those additional 14 weeks.

Roughly 10,000 people will have their benefits immediately extended.

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Ritchie wants new design instructions for absentee ballots

Posted at 1:35 PM on November 13, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010

From MPR's Mark Zdechlik:

The Minnesota Secretary of State's office is looking for public comment on its new absentee ballot envelope design instructions. Officials with the office say the new forms are designed to be easier to understand. They say they include more clear language and also also step-by-step illustrations. Absentee ballots were at the center of the dispute over last year's Senate election. The proposed changes are intended to clear up any confusion about how to properly vote by absentee ballot.

Here's Ritchie's full news release. You can view the proposal here.

Update: MNGOP Chair Tony Sutton released this statement on Ritchie's decision:

"Today's window dressing from Mark Ritchie can't change the fact that Minnesota's absentee ballot system remains broken. As the chief election official in the state, Ritchie failed to properly train local election officials but he refuses to accept any responsibility for his total lack of leadership. As a result of Ritchie's unacceptable failure to properly train local election officials, Minnesotans have been subject to appalling disparities in how absentee ballots are counted across the state."

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Rasmussen figures on Pawlenty, Bachmann, Klobuchar and Franken

Posted at 11:12 AM on November 13, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Tim Pawlenty, U.S. House

A new Rasmussen Poll says 58 percent of likely voters polled at least somewhat approve of the job DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar is doing while 38 percent disapprove. 50 percent approve of the job DFL Sen. Al Franken is doing while 45 percent disapprove. The poll also said 51 percent of those polled approve of the job GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is doing while 45 percent disapprove.

The poll also apparently asked questions about Gov. Pawlenty but the figures aren't included in the latest data set. Fox9 News has a contract with Rasmussen so they may be waiting to release the figures until a story runs on the figures. Talking Points Memo, however, got the figures and a majority of those polled say they wouldn't vote for him for president:

Respondents were asked: "Suppose Governor Tim Pawlenty runs for President in 2012 and wins the Republican nomination. If Pawlenty was the Republican Presidential candidate, would you vote for him?"

The numbers: Yes 42%, No 46%, with a ±3% margin of error. The poll also has Pawlenty's approval rating as governor at 52%, with 47% disapproval.

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MAPE backs Kelliher for governor

Posted at 11:48 AM on November 12, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Minnesota's second largest public employee union is backing DFL House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher in her 2010 bid for governor.

Officials with the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) screened all of the DFL candidates and one Republican earlier this week. But the union's executive director, Jim Monroe, says Kelliher stood out with her proven leadership skills. During a State Capitol news conference today, Monroe also described Kelliher as the most electable candidate in the field.

"Speaker Kelliher is willing to bring people together to solve problems in a crisis," Monroe said. "She has a history of respect for state workers and the work that they do."

MAPE is Kelliher's first labor endorsement. The state's largest public employee union, AFSCME Council 5, is backing Mark Dayton for governor.

Monroe and Kelliher held a news conference this morning to talk about the enodrsement. You can listen to it here: Listen

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Jungbauer calls it quits

Posted at 5:03 PM on November 11, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

AP is reporting that GOP state Sen. Michael Jungbauer is ending his race for governor:

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Republican state Sen. Mike Jungbauer (JUNG'-bow-er) is dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race after having trouble raising money.

Jungbauer's campaign released an e-mail announcing his decision on Wednesday.

Jungbauer says his supporters are struggling in a tough economy and haven't been able to support him financially to stay in the race. He also lagged the front runners in a straw poll at the Republican state convention last month.

Seven Republicans remain in the wide-open race.

Jungbauer says he now plans to run for re-election to his Minnesota Senate seat.

Update: Jungbauer's Facebook page has his announcement:

When I entered the governor's race in July, I believed that God had opened the door to a new opportunity and that I needed to respond. I believe I did that to the best of my ability, but it was my human pride that made that job winning the race. As is so often the case, God's plans aren't our plans and I now realize that the job that needed doing was to learn a lot, listen even more, encourage and even teach a bit.

These last few months have been a blast! I have been so blessed by people that believe in me, and truly believe that I would be an excellent choice for governor. Our campaign is truly supported by the working class that is struggling through these hard financial times; therefore we have not received the financial support necessary to carry on with the campaign.

It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing I will be dropping out of the governor's race today. I will be fully focusing on my senate duties, and my senate re-election in 2010 starting immediately.

Listening to citizen concerns from around the state will serve me well as I resume my work at the senate. I would like to thank everyone for their support and well wishes over the last couple of months as I went through the rabies treatments. I would also like to thank those that helped with the campaign.

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Did Bachmann break House rules?

Posted at 11:11 AM on November 11, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Politico's Glenn Thrush posted an item wondering if GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann broke House Rules by promoting her rally on her official government site. Here's the story.

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Clark hires campaign staff

Posted at 11:15 AM on November 10, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St.Cloud, has named the campaign team for her congressional bid in the 6th district.

In a news release today, Clark announced that she hired Zach Rodvold as her campaign Manager. Rodvold was state director for U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Rodvold also led Klobuchar's campaign field operation in 2006 and was GOTV Director for the Obama-Biden campaign in Minnesota.

Clark named Lauren Beecham as her finance director. Her other campaign staff hires were Nicole Wittig-Geske and Stacey Springer.

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Politico: keep an eye on Minnesota's 6th district

Posted at 10:30 AM on November 10, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

There are a lot of big contests in 2010. And the race in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District is already getting national attention. Politico lists Rep. Michele Bachmann's bid for a third term as one of 10 contests to keep an eye on. Here's what Charles Mahtesian had to say about the 6th:

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann drives Democrats batty with her in-your-face conservatism, yet no matter what they throw at her, she still seems to end up on top. In 2008, Democrats thought she wouldn't be able to recover from her sensational October cable-television comment that Obama "may have anti-American views." Almost $2 million poured into her Democratic rival's campaign as a result. Still, Bachmann managed to pull off a narrow victory. This time around, bolstered by progressive online activists who detest Bachmann, Democrats are hoping to mount an even more aggressive effort to dislodge the two-term congresswoman. But that hasn't stopped Bachmann, who recently described Democrats' health care plan as the "crown jewel of socialism." And Bachmann won't be an easy mark - she's amassed an army of small donors and attained rock-star status on the right, which is just as eager to return her to Congress as the left is to send her back home to Minnesota.

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Emmer picks up support

Posted at 6:41 AM on November 10, 2009 by Tom Scheck (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

GOP Rep. Tom Emmer's campaign for governor picked up the support of eight state lawmakers. They are: Bruce Anderson, HD 19A, Mark Buesgens, HD 35B, Steve Drazkowski, HD 28B, Tom Hackbarth, HD 48A, Mary Liz Holberg, HD 36A, Amy Koch, SD 19, Tim Sanders, HD 51A, Peggy Scott, HD 49A. Here's part of the release:

The legislators each underscored the critical nature of the upcoming election. "There has never been a more crucial time in Minnesota for serious, dependable, conservative leadership," said Scott. "We know that Tom will carry on Tim Pawlenty's legacy of standing firm in the face of reckless and irresponsible government spending. Minnesota's government will live within its means with Tom as governor, even while Washington continues its unprecedented spending spree."

Hackbarth added that "the states that conserve their fiscal resources and watch their pennies will be the states that emerge first and strongest from this recession."

Koch noted that their early endorsements were intended to help Emmer's campaign cultivate grassroots support statewide. Tom has already visited each of Minnesota's 67 Senate Districts in these first four months of campaigning.

"Tom's campaign clearly has momentum on its side. He is out working for the endorsement every day," she said. "Courting delegates is about forging a personal bond. He's recruiting delegate support one-by-one and his work is paying dividends. To meet Tom one to one is to be impressed by Tom."

"Tom is a look-you-in-the-eye leader who is not in this race for politics," Buesgens said. "You'll never hear him say, 'vote for me because I'm the compromise candidate who can win.' He is in it to do the right thing."

Added Drazkowsi: "Minnesotans have a track record of voting for candidates who believe in something."

"Tom is the right choice for Governor," said Holberg, "both among those who are currently running and among those who are being talked about."

"I'm grateful and humbled that my colleagues would pledge their support for me like this," Emmer said. "There is no better test of a candidate than to achieve support from the people they have worked with in the trenches."

He added that he expects other legislative endorsements to be forthcoming.

###

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Bakk hires campaign manager

Posted at 2:45 PM on November 9, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Sen. Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, announced today that Dave Griggs will lead his campaign for the DFL endorsement for governor.

Bakk, the chairman of the Senate Taxes Committee, has been in the race since May. He is among 11 DFL candidates who've filed paperwork to run for governor.

Bakk praised Griggs in a news release.

"Dave's first job after college was working on Sen. Paul Wellstone's 2002 campaign," Bakk said. "Since that time he has built an impressive resume working on DFL campaigns, most recently for the Minnesota DFL Coordinated Campaign. As campaign manager, Dave is bringing extensive field experience to my team."

Griggs is from St. Louis Park. He graduated from New York University and the University of St. Thomas School of Law.

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Sullivan won't be a GOP candidate for governor

Posted at 1:32 PM on November 9, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (0 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Business owner and Republican National Committeeman Brian Sullivan has decided against running for governor, again. Sullivan had reportedly been reconsidering a gubernatorial bid. But today he issued this statement:

"

In June, I announced that I would not run for governor in 2010. However, in the following months, I received many requests from Republican activists to reconsider that decision. As a result, two weeks ago I asked some friends to sound out the opinions of party leaders about the possibility of my candidacy and to understand the challenges of a late entry into the race. Though I received much gratifying encouragement to run, I concluded that my business obligations would prevent me from dedicating the time needed to run an effective campaign. Accordingly, I will not reconsider my previous decision, and I will not be a candidate for governor next year. I am optimistic about Republican prospects to keep the governorship, and I look forward to supporting the party's endorsed candidate."

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On the stump...

Posted at 10:25 AM on November 9, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Here's a look at where the candidates for governor will be this week. Side note, I made an error by not posting GOP Rep. Tom Emmer's events on this page last week. I apologize for the error.

Update: R.T. Rybak's schedule has been added.

Pat Anderson (GOP):
Wednesday, 11/11/2009, Candidate Forum sponsored by the University of Minnesota Duluth College Republicans, Kirby Student Center Room 311 on the UMD Campus -- 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Candidate Forum Mankato State University College Republicans, Mankato State University Student Union - 7:30 to 9:30 PM.
Saturday, 11/14/2009, SD 36 Candidate Forum American Legion Hall on HWY 3 just North of Farmington - 9:30-11 AM.

Tom Bakk (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Candidate forum, Gustavus Adolphus, St. Peter
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, MAPE candidate forum, Roseville
Friday, 11/13/2009, Senate Dist. 57 Annual Fundraiser, Cottage Grove and an even at mnPACT!, Burnsville
Saturday, 11/14/2009, Take Action Minnesota Progressive Leadership Awards and Celebration, St. Paul

Leslie Davis (GOP):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Gustavus Adolphus College Gubernatorial Forum, Alumni Hall at the college in St. Peter
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, Lyon County Dinner and Gubernatorial Forum, 6pm, Adult Community Center, 107 S. 4th Street, Marshall, MN 56258
Wednesday, 11/11/2009, UMD College Republican Gubernatorial Forum, 6:30pm, Kirby Student Center, 1120 Kirby Drive, Duluth 55812
Saturday, 11/14/2009, Sherburne County Republicans FACING THE FUTURE, 2:30pm, Friendly Buffalo, 16722 - 198th Avenue, Big Lake

Mark Dayton (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a schedule.

Tom Emmer, (GOP):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Rep. Emmer speaks to the Citizens Council on Health Care in St. Paul at 5:30pm
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, Lyon County Dinner and Gubernatorial Forum, 6pm, Adult Community Center, 107 S. 4th Street, Marshall, MN 56258
Wednesday, 11/11/2009, UMD College Republican Gubernatorial Forum, 6:30pm, Kirby Student Center, 1120 Kirby Drive, Duluth 55812
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Candidate Forum Mankato State University College Republicans, Mankato State University Student Union - 7:30 to 9:30 PM.
Friday, 11/13/2009, Rep. Emmer speaks to a Home School grou's politics class in Maple Grove, 1pm, 4th District GOP Dinner, Maplewood, MN 6pm.
Saturday, 11/14/2009, SD 36 Candidate Forum American Legion Hall on HWY 3 just North of Farmington - 9:30-11 AM, HD 16B Candidate Forum, Big Lake, 2:30pm

Matt Entenza (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, SD64 Meet and Greet, 7pm, Amore Coffee, 917 Grand Avenue, St. Paul
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, St. Cloud State University (with central Minnesota DFLers), 8:15pm, The home of Steven and Joyce Amic, 114 14th Ave. N., St. Cloud, Lunch with Bemidji State Democrats, 12pm, Hobson Memorial Union, 1500 Birchmont Avenue NE, Bemidji, College of St. Benedict/St. John's University, 5:30pm, SD14 Central Committee meeting, 7pm
Wednesday, 11/11/2009, Gustavus Adolphus College, Boardroom of Campus Center, 800 West College Ave., St. Peter, 6pm, Mankato State University, 7:30 pm, 210 Morris Hall, Mankato
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Meeting with Marshall DFLers, 11am, The Daily Grind, 316 W Main St., Marshall, Carleton College, Matt Entenza meet-and-greet Java Jules, 221 2nd St. NW, Ortonville8pm, Sayles-Hill - Campus Center: 1 N. College St., Northfield, St. Olaf College, 9:30pm, Viking Theatre, Buntrock Commons (Student Center)_1520 St. Olaf Ave., Northfield
Friday, 11/13/2009, University of Minnesota, 2pm, Coffman Union, mnpACT! Speaking Engagement, 7pm, 2400 Highland Drive, Burnsville
Saturday, 11/14/2009, DFL Veterans' Caucus Candidate Forum, 2pm, LSS Center for Changing Lives in Minneapolis at 2400 Park Avenue, Lunch with Sherburne County activists, 12pm, T's Restaurant, 14000 Club House Ln., Becker, Take Action Minnesota Progressive Leadership Awards and Celebration, St. Paul

Susan Gaertner (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, MAPE Political Conference, 1:30pm, Roseville Radisson 2540 North Cleveland Ave Roseville MN, 55113, Candidate Forum at Gustavus Adolphus College, 7pm Gustavus Adolphus Alumni Hall
Friday, 11/13/2009, Senate District DFL 57 Fundraiser, 6pm, Cottage Grove VFW. Interview with KSTP's At Issue, 10am.
Saturday, 11/14/2009, DFL Veterans' Caucus Candidate Forum, 2pm, LSS Center for Changing Lives in Minneapolis at 2400 Park Avenue

Bill Haas (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

David Hann (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Phil Herwig (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Mike Jungbauer (GOP):
Monday, 11/9/2009 Gustavus Adolphus
Tuesday, 11/10/2009 Lyon County Fundraiser
Wednesday, 11/11/2009, Young Republicans UMD
Friday, 11/13/2009, Northstar Inaugural

Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Meet & Greet in Saint Peter, 5:30pm, Gustavus Adolphus College, Jackson Campus Center, Board Room, Saint Peter, MN, Candidate Forum, 7pm, Gustavus Adolphus College, Alumni Hall, Saint Peter, MN
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Meet & Greet at the Home of Representative Lenczewski, 7pm, At the home of Rep. Ann Lenczewski, 10306 Humboldt Circle South, Bloomington, MN
Saturday, 11/14/2009, DFL Veterans Caucus Forum, 2pm, Center for Changing Lives, 2400 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, TakeAction Minnesota's Progressive Leadership Awards Dinner and Celebration, 5pm, Crown Plaza - Saint Paul Riverfront, 11 East Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN

Steve Kelley (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Broadband Task Force Breakfast, MHTA, 13625 Technology Dr. in Eden Prairie, 8:00AM, Gustavus Forum on Higher Education, Alumni Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, 7pm
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, Screening with MAPE (MN Association of Professional Employees), Radisson, Roseville
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Ready for K Event at Minneapolis Club, 5:30pm, Steve Kelley 1 Year to Victory Party at Kieran's Irish Pub, 330 2nd Ave. S. Minneapolis, 6pm.
Saturday, 11/14/2009, - Coffee w/ DFL activists in Northfield @ Blue Mondays coffee shop in downtown Northfield, 9:45am, DFL Veteran's Caucus Forum, 2pm, Take Action Awards Dinner, Crowne Plaza, St. Paul

John Marty (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, MAPE Political Conference, Roseville Radisson 2540 North Cleveland ave Roseville, MN 55113, 1pm, Gubernatorial Candidates Forum at Gustavus Adolphus College, Gustavus Adolphus College Alumni Hall 800 West College Avenue Saint Peter, MN 56082, 7pm
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, MN Gov Relations Council DFL Gubernatorial Candidate Roundtable, The Commodore 79 Western Ave N, St Paul 55102, 4pm, Senator Marty to address Senate District 14, American Legion 101 Minnesota Street West, St. Joseph, MN, 7pm
Friday, 11/13/2009, Senate District 57 Fall Fundraiser, Red Barn 9260 Point Douglas Rd Cottage Grove, MN 55016, 5:30pm
Saturday, 11/14/2009, DFL Veterans Caucus Candidates Forum, Center for Changing Lives, 2400 Park Ave., MPLS, MN 55404, 2pm, Take Action Annual Awards Dinner, Crowne Plaza - Saint Paul Riverfront 11 East Kellogg Blvd, 5pm

Tom Rukavina (DFL):
Monday, 11/9/2009, 1:30pm MAPE Governor's Debate at Roseville Radisson,7pm Candidate Forum at Gustavus Adolphus College
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, 12pm meeting with Aitkin DFL at Aitkin Convention Center
Thursday, 11/12/2009, 12pm meeting with Itasca DFL
Friday, 11/13/2009, 11:30am meeting with the Roedler Lunch Group at the Downtowner Woodfire Grill in St. Paul, 5:30pm SD57 DFL meeting in Cottage Grove, MN
Saturday, 11/14/2009, 10am meeting with MN State University Student Association at Metropolitan State University, 2pm Sd61 and DFL Veterans Caucus Candidate Forum at the Center for Changing Lives 2400 Park Ave, Minneapolis, 5pm Take Action MN Dinner at Crowne Plaza Hotel in St Paul

R.T. Rybak (DFL)
Monday, 11/9/2009, 7pm Candidate Forum at Gustavus Adolphus College
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, MN Gov Relations Council DFL Gubernatorial Candidate Roundtable, The Commodore 79 Western Ave N, St Paul 55102, 4pm
Saturday, 11/14/2009, DFL Veterans Caucus Candidate Forum at the Center for Changing Lives, 2pm, 2400 Park Ave, Minneapolis

Marty Seifert (GOP):
Monday, 11/9/2009, Sherburne County BPOU, Becker Baptist Church, 7pm
Tuesday, 11/10/2009 Lyon County GOP Fundraiser, 6pm
Thursday, 11/12/2009, Mankato State College Republican Forum, 7pm
Saturday, 11/14/2009, SD 36 Breakfast Forum, Farmington Legion, 8am, HD 16B Candidate Forum, Big Lake, 2:30pm

Paul Thissen (DFL):
Tuesday, 11/10/2009, 4:30pm, Meet and Greet, Country Host, 3020 20th St, Slayton, MN 56172, 7pm, Cottonwood County DFL Meeting, Godfather's Pizza, Windom, 8pm, Nobles County DFL Meeting, 1125 Huminston Ave, Worthington
Friday, 11/13/2009, 7pm, SD57 DFL Fall Dinner, Red Barn, Cottage Grove
Saturday, 11/14/2009, 11:30am, Meet and Greet, 6108 W 99th St, Bloomington, MN 55438, 5pm, Take Action MN Awards Dinner, Crowne Plaza - St. Paul Riverfront, 11 East Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul

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House passes health care overhaul bill

Posted at 2:08 AM on November 8, 2009 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

The U.S. House passed the health care overhaul bill.

Democrats Tim Walz, Betty McCollum, Keith Ellison and Jim Oberstar voted for the bill.

Democrat Collin Peterson and Republicans John Kline, Erik Paulsen and Michele Bachmann voted against the bill.

Here's the roll call.

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Peterson to vote No on health care bill

Posted at 4:42 PM on November 6, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

DFL 7th District congressman Collin Peterson says he will vote no on the health care bill that is scheduled for a weekend vote in the U.S. House. Peterson says the bill doesn't do enough to control health care costs, and that it continues unfair Medicare reimbursements that penalize Minnesota doctors and hospitals. Peterson says his biggest concern is the federal budget:

"We've got over a $70 trillion unfunded liablity in this over the next 75 years and we're just going to make it worse. And I don't see how that's sustainable. The govenment's running a $1.5 trillion deficit the way it is. So that's my big problem with this."

Peterson says he likes some elements of the Senate health care bill better than the House bill. He said he hopes he can support a bill if and when the House and Senate compromise.

Peterson also said he is waiting to see President Obama's Afghanistan war strategy before he makes a decision on troop increase. He said he's skeptical, however, of just sending in more troops without a good idea of what is needed in the region:

"At the end of the day, if anybody thinks you're going to have any democracy in Afghanistan anytime soon is kidding themselves. For a lot less money, you could enlist the support of these warlords by just basically giving them to work with them in their areas. In my opinion, they would take care of the Taliban. If it's in the context of supporting some kind of a system like that then I think more troops are something I would consider. Bit if you're not going to have a realistic understanding of how things are in Afghanistan and that the fact that you have to make a deal with these tribal leaders and warlords if you're get this under control. If you don't understand that, then I think it's a misguided mission to put troops in there."

Peterson also said he's inclined to run for reelection but won't make a final decision until January or February.

You can listen to the entire interview here:

Listen

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MN Campaign Finance Board hits Rybak and Coleman

Posted at 12:22 PM on November 6, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

The Minnesota Campaign Finance Board issued two rulings today saying St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak should have filed campaign committees for governor.

Update: The board ruled that Rybak should have created a committee in May. The board found that Coleman used personal funds for his campaign so didn't have to form a committee but will have to report those funds, like any self-funded candidate, at the end of the year.

Coleman announced last month that he isn't running for governor but the board ruled that he needs to report the travel expenses from any governor campaigning to the board.

The board also said Rybak should have filed a campaign committee in May when he conducted a poll. The board ruled that Rybak's campaign committee for governor (which he filed yesterday) has to reimburse Rybak's campaign for mayor $26,500 for the cost of the survey it conducted back in May. The board ruled that the survey was designed to benefit a gubernatorial bid not the reelection campaign.

The MNGOP, which filed the complaint, will hold a news conference later this afternoon.

Here's the Rybak ruling.

Here's the Coleman ruling.

UPDATE: Rybak's campaign released this statement:

"Mayor R.T. Rybak has been honest and forthcoming regarding his consideration of a run for Governor, and our campaign has been careful to not raise contributions or make expenditures for the purpose of influencing a campaign for Governor until a formal decision was made. The Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board has found that certain expenses incurred by the Mayor's campaign should be counted as expenses related to a Governor's campaign. Although we disagree with the basis, we will accept the Board's finding and take action to account for these expenses and reimburse the Mayor's campaign for them. Mayor Rybak filed the paperwork to create a Rybak for Governor Committee yesterday."

UPDATE

Officials with the Republican Party of Minnesota applauded the ruling.

During an afternoon news conference, GOP chairman Tony Sutton, said Rybak deliberately tried to skirt the law.

"Rybak campaigned for governor across Minnesota for months, without lawfully establishing a campaign committee and recording his expenditures," Sutton said. "This pattern of deception shows Rybak does not have the judgement to lead our great state."

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Rybak files for governor

Posted at 5:05 PM on November 5, 2009 by Tom Scheck (7 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak has filed paperwork with the Minnesota Campaign Finance Board notifying them of his intent to run for governor.

The filing is not a surprise, since Rybak has appeared at a number of events with other candidates for governor. He also didn't shy away from his interest in the job. Rybak was elected to a third term as Mayor of Minneapolis on Tuesday night. He is the tenth DFLer to enter the race for governor. Rybak's paperwork says Charlie Zelle, who owns Jefferson Bus Lines, is Rybak's campaign chair.

Here's an email Rybak sent supporters:

As one of my good friends and supporters, I want you to know that today we filed the paperwork to create the R.T. Rybak for Governor Committee.

I've been open with people as I've considered this important step, so I doubt this will be a surprise. But it is an important step, and I want you to know why I'm taking it.

Over the last two years I've travelled across Minnesota to talk and listen about the future of our state. Lots of people are discouraged by our state government's failure to take action and find solutions to today's tough challenges. They are looking for leadership focused on more jobs, better schools and affordable health care. They want to build a world-class transportation system and a clean energy economy.

I know that there's a better way. We've shown in Minneapolis that we can make progress, create jobs, and get action to create real change. We've strengthened our economy, improved public safety, and streamlined city government. Most importantly, we've restored a sense of hope and shown that even in the toughest times we can do great things when we come together.

I know that together we can build a better and more prosperous Minnesota for now and for the future. But I also know that this won't happen unless we work to make it happen. I am ready to go to work, and I hope you're ready to join me.

Filing these papers is the first step in the process of setting up the Rybak for Governor campaign. In the weeks ahead, we will be building a grassroots campaign to take our message to every corner of the state. I will be in touch about how you can get more involved, and to ask for your help.

Rybak jumped into the race on the same day that the Campaign Finance Board met privately to discuss a complaint against him. Deputy state Republican Party Chair Michael Brodkorb says the Campaign Finance Board told the party that it would meet to discuss the GOP complaint. Republicans allege that Rybak violated campaign finance laws by not formally declaring his candidacy earlier. They say he wanted to avoid the appearance of running for governor while he was campaigning for re-election as mayor.

Update: Julie Hottinger, a spokeswoman for Rybak's campaign, said this about the timing of the filing:

"The timing of filing the Governor's committee with the Campaign Finance hearing was purely a coincidence, and we're confident that the Mayor's Campaign has followed the rules."

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Bachmann at rally, Ellison on TV

Posted at 3:44 PM on November 5, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Thousands rallied at the U.S. Capitol today against the health care overhaul plan that Democrats hope to pass on Saturday.

The protesters chanted, "Kill the bill," and several Republicans addressed the crowd, including U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn.

"As the clock is ticking at 11:59 on this health care reform, Speaker Pelosi is poised with her health care bill to takeover 18 percent of the American economy," Bachmann said.

Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., outlined his support for the bill during an interview on MSNBC, calling the measure a good thing.

Asked about public opinion polls that show only 50 percent of American support the so-called public option, Ellison said people have jitters before a big change. He compared the health care measure to other legislative milestones.

"If you went back and did polls on the 1964 Civil Rights Act, there'd be a lot of people who'd be fearful of what might happen next," Ellison said. "But the truth is, it made our country better. So did Social Security. So did medicare. This change we're looking at right now is of that magnitude."

Pawlenty wants statewide vote on spending cap

Posted at 2:24 PM on November 5, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, MN Legislature, Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty

Gov. Tim Pawlenty is calling for constitutional amendment to cap state spending. His proposal would limit spending to the amount of revenue the state collected in the last two year budget period. Pawlenty says his proposal would force future governors and state lawmakers to set spending priorities.

"We need to change the way that we budget in the state of Minnesota from what we want to spend to what we have brought in the door," Pawlenty said. "Our proposal does exactly that. It is budgeting based on what is in the checkbook rather than what we hope is in the checkbook in the future."

You can listen to his full news conference here:

Listen

Here's some of the reaction to the proposal:

"At first blush, it does seem odd, that on your way out the door, with a pending $5 to $7 billion deficit, you would now recommend something that you haven't even proposed to the Legislature." - Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller, DFL-Minneapolis

"If the Governor thinks this idiotic approach to budgeting is such a great idea, I challenge him to prove it by spending in his campaign for President during the next two years (2010 & 2011), only what he has raised for that purpose during the past two years (2008 & 2009)." - Mark Dayton, DFL candidate for governor

"I think there's some serious questions about if we do this how do we then account for all of the gimmicks (K12 shift, June accelerated sales tax) that have been used to keep the state's budget in balance during the most recent difficult times." - Sen. Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, candidate for governor

"Today, Governor Pawlenty once again put his national political ambitions above the people of Minnesota. Pawlenty walked away from negotiations with the Legislature last year and now he is proposing a constitutional amendment that would allow him to walk away from the ongoing budget problem that was created by his failed "no-new-taxes" agenda." - House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kellier, DFL-Minneapolis, candidate for governor

"I stand firmly behind Governor Tim Pawlenty's announcement today and his bold effort to bring common sense to Minnesota's budgeting process. This proposed constitutional amendment requiring that state government spending be tied to actual general fund revenue is government at its best - one that is both responsive to the concerns of the public and responsible with the hard-earned tax dollars that we are entrusted with." - Senate Minority Leader David Senjem, R-Rochester

"Gov. Pawlenty is proposing that we govern the state by looking in the rearview mirror instead of looking to the future. This is a simplistic approach to tackling Minnesota's challenges coming from a governor who has taken little interest in actually managing the state budget to meet our needs." - Rep. Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis, candidate for governor

"Gov. Pawlenty's bold proposal for a constitutional amendment capping government spending is to be commended by all Minnesotans who value sensible government and fiscal sanity. While this idea will no doubt face fierce opposition from Democrats intent on hiking taxes and making government bigger, it will benefit taxpayers who must foot the bill for the state's spending. The Republican Party of Minnesota will do its part to make sure this reform measure goes to the voters in 2010." - State GOP Chairman Tony Sutton

"The Legislature has shown, regardless of who is in the majority, that it cannot control itself when it comes to spending the taxpayers' money. I dispute the assertion that limiting spending would mean less money for schools, public safety or other core services of government. We can fund what we need to, we will just have to get serious about setting priorities." - Rep. Paul Kohls, R-Victoria, who plans to carry the amendment

"Tim Pawlenty has once again proved that he is interested in gimmicks, not governing. Pawlenty has specialized in shifts, hiding costs, and calling taxes fees for his entire administration. His newest ploy is simply more of the same diverting Minnesotans from a real conversation about the challenges that we face. Everything Pawlenty has done this year is about his own political future, not whats best for Minnesotans. The timing of this proposal on the heels of his PAC fundraiser could not be more politically cynical." - Steve Kelley, DFL candidate for governor

"Issues like this have failed in other states and really what it does is it forces cuts to quality education, health care and we could see more property tax increases." House Majority Leader Tony Sertich, DFL-Chisholm

"I'm not going to hold back job growth and shackle our economy. This is nothing more than a gimmick, and when I'm governor, I'm going to end governance by gimmick." Matt Entenza, DFL candidate for governor

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Bakk wants bonding bill special session

Posted at 11:19 AM on November 5, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty

A key state senator is urging Gov. Tim Pawlenty to call a special legislative session to pass a job-creating bonding bill.

Sen.Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, the chair of the Senate tax committee and a 2010 candidate for governor, released a letter today that he sent to Pawlenty. Bakk says the capital investment committees in the House and Senate have been traveling the state, looking at proposed public works projects for a bonding bill in the 2010 session. With unemployment especially high in the construction trades, Bakk says lawmakers should take action on that borrowing package before the end of the year.

"I see no reason that we sit around and wait with an economy that is badly failing, 500 people every week getting their last unemployment check," Bakk said. "There just is no reason that we wait around for the session to start in February before we move on a bonding bill."

Bakk is also proposing tax credits and other incentives aimed at boosting Minnesota's economy. He says he's been meeting recently with state business group leaders to get their input on additional ideas.

Voight to speak at Bachmann's health care rally.

Posted at 10:28 PM on November 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Actor Jon Voight is helping out two well known Minnesota Republicans this week. He spoke at a a fundraiser for Gov. Pawlenty's national political action committee tonight.

Tomorrow, he says he'll speak at GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's health care rally in Washington D.C. Bachmann is urging the public to storm the Capitol to protest the health care bill that's being considered. Voight told reporters he doesn't like the bill:

"If this thing passes, it's disastrous to our country. Both economicallly and health care. It's going to diminish everyone's health care and it's going to be a huge beuracracy that people are going to suffer under."

Voight isn't the only actor getting involved in the health care debate. MoveOn dot Org filmed ads featuring Heather Graham and Will Ferrell.

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Meffert running in the 3rd.

Posted at 9:15 PM on November 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

DFLer Jim Meffert is throwing his hat into the ring in the contest to unseat Republican Erik Paulsen in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District in 2010. Paulsen is in his first term in Congress.

Meffert, a lobbyist for the Optometric Association from Edina, filed his official campaign paperwork earlier yesterday. Meffert says people in the 3rd district are frustrated by partisanship and politics as usual on both sides of the aisle.

"This district as we have seen from Congressman Ramstad and Congressman Frenzel looks for people who are conscientious paticipants in the system. They are not safe votes, they were not safe Republican votes. They want people who are good public servants and understand public policy that is what we are missing right now."

Meffert will have at least one challenger for the DFL endorsement -- Dr. Maureen Hackett, a physician and forensic psychiastrist from Minnetonka. DFL State Sen. Terri Bonoff is also considering a run.

(h/t MPR's Jess Mador)

Keith Ellison is one of the poorest members of Congress

Posted at 4:18 PM on November 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

The Center for Responsive Politics analyzed the financial disclosure forms for all of the members of Congress and ranked them by wealth. The analysis found that DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is ranked 514th of the 538 members of Congress in terms of wealth. The report says his average net worth -$-21,497. The maximum net worth is $5,999. The minimum net worth is $-48,993. The Center has to create high. low and average assets/liabilities because the disclosure reports deal with broad ranges.

Here's the analysis of the poorest members and Ellison's profile page .

Dave Levinthal, with The Center for Responsive Politics, said the organization tries to get the best estimate of wealth that they can from the disclosure forms. He said they add up the listed assets that a lawmaker has and subtracts the liabilities from that.

"Is it more likely than not that he's [Ellison] in the red, based on the assets and liabilities? Yes," Levinthal said. "Is it possible that he's a shade above? Yes."

Levinthal also said that the financial disclosure forms do not include government salary or personal residence, which can either be an asset or a liability.

DFL Sen. Al Franken is the wealthiest member of the delegation. His average range is $6,213, 028. The low end of his assets is $3,793,056. The upper end is $8,633,000.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar is the wealthiest House member of the delegation. His average wealth is $5,479,538. The range is $3,202,076 on the low end and the upper hand is $7,757,000.

For the record, GOP Rep. Darrell Issa of California is the richest member of Congress. He has a maximum net worth of $337,400,002

Top Bachmann aide quits

Posted at 3:09 PM on November 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Michelle Marston, who had roles as GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's Chief of Staff and her campaign manager, has quit, a spokesman confirms. Bachmann spokesman Dave Dziok declined further comment about Marston's departure. Politico, which first reported the story, said Marston declined to say why she was leaving:

"I'm just not talking about it, and frankly I don't think there's a story here," Marston wrote. "Now, the thousands of people calling our office to tell us [they're] coming to Capitol Hill tomorrow - that's a story."

Bachmann has scheduled a Thursday Capitol rally to protest the health care bill that is moving through Congress. The House will reportedly take up the bill on Saturday.

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Quist getting ready to run in the first?

Posted at 7:51 AM on November 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Allen Quist, a former state lawmaker and candidate for governor, has scheduled several health care forums in Rochester, Worthington and Mankato in November. The move increases speculation that Quist will run for Congress in Minnesota's 1st District (all of those cities are in the 1st). Quist's news release said he was holding the forums to discuss the health care bills being considered in Congress:

Former State Representative Allen Quist will be sponsoring a series of forums in Southern Minnesota dealing with the health care bills now in Congress. "The purpose of the forums," said Quist, "is to provide the public with accurate information about the health care proposals and to encourage the public to contact their elected officials and ask them to 'just say no' when they vote on the bills now on the floor." Quist will be joined at the forums by Dr. Brian Davis in Rochester and by Citizens Council on Health Care President, Twila Brase, R.N., in Mankato and Worthington.

A spokesman who sent out the release said Quist is considering "a run for Congress" with it being a likely possibility. He added more news will come next week.

UPDATE:
Quist sent me this e-mail when I asked if he was in the race or filed paperwork with the FEC:

"The paperwork is in process. I have formed an exploratory committee, but that is on hold for the time being because I want to try to make a difference on the health care Bill (somewhat of a moving target to be sure) that Speaker Pelosi is attempting to pass."

Quist has already created a Quist for Congress website and Facebook page.

Quist won the GOP endorsement in 1994 but lost the primary to Arne Carlson.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz is running for a third term.

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DFLer Hackett poised to run for Congress

Posted at 12:06 PM on November 3, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House, U.S. MN CD3

A DFL challenger to Republican Congressman Erik Paulsen is getting ready to enter the 2010 race in Minnesota's 3rd District.

Dr. Maureen Hackett, a physician and forensic psychiatrist from Minnetonka, has filed federal campaign paperwork and has a campaign web site ready to launch. Hackett confirmed her plans today, and said she will seek the DFL endorsement. But she said professional obligations have delayed her announcement.

"I'm planning to run," Hackett said. "And I'm planning to make a announcement very soon."

Hackett declined to go on tape or talk further about her campaign until she makes it official, sometime later this month.

An online biography says Hackett is an Air Force veteran with a private practice in Minneapolis. In addition, she's an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota and teaches the Psychiatry and the Law Clinic at the William Mitchell College of Law.

Hackett has made significant financial contributions to several DFL candidates, including Al Franken, Amy Klobuchar, Ashwin Madia, Colleen Rowley, Elwyn Tinklenberg, Tim Walz and Patty Wetterling. She also donated to the presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Ralph Nader.

State Sen. Terri Bonoff, DFL-Minnetonka, said recently that she's open to running again in the 3rd District. Jim Meffert of Edina is also considering a campaign.

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Oberstar to raise money for Clark

Posted at 11:15 AM on November 3, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar is the latest well-known Minnesota Democrat to raise money for state Sen. Tarryl Clark's campaign for congress. A fundraiser says Oberstar and the 2008 DFL endorsed candidate, El Tinklenberg, will host a fundraiser for Clark on November 12th in Woodbury.

This fundraiser comes one day after DFL Sen. Al Franken, MN House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak will hold a fundraiser for Clark.

Clark is seeking the DFL endorsement against Dr. Maureen Reed.

Whoever wins the nomination will face GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann. Meanwhile, Bachmann is urging opponents of the health care bills to rally at the Capitol on Thursday.

Paulsen denounces plan to give H1N1 vaccine to Guantanamo Detainees

Posted at 9:24 AM on November 3, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen sent letters to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Secretary of the Army John McHugh complaining that Guantanamo Bay detainees should not receive the H1N1 vaccine before American citizens. Here's part of the letter:

I certainly understand the underlying problem being an overall lack of available vaccines nationwide, but I was extremely disappointed to learn that detainees currently being held at Guantanamo Bay will soon be offered H1N1 vaccination, while high-risk priority groups such as pregnant women and children in Minnesota and across the nation continue to wait for this vaccine. While it is appropriate to offer the vaccine to guards and service members stationed at Guantanamo, it is entirely unacceptable to make this vaccine available to detainees while millions of law-abiding Americans are forced to wait in line.

The Pentagon made the decision to give the vaccine to the prisoners because they are at high risk for infection:

The Pentagon made the decision based on U.S. government assessments that people held in detention facilities are at high risk for the pandemic, said Maj. Diana R. Haynie, a spokeswoman for Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay, which is in charge of holding the suspected terrorists.

"Detainees at JTF Guantanamo are considered to be at higher risk and therefore they will be offered the H1N1 vaccination," Haynie said.

"JTF Guantanamo conducts safe, humane, legal and transparent care and custody of detainees. As such, we must provide detainees the medical care necessary to maintain their health," she said.

Update: A spokesman for Paulsen says Paulsen and his family did not get H1N1 shots.

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Paulsen delivers health care bill to local libraries

Posted at 5:07 PM on November 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen sent the complete health care bill to libraries in Edina, Minnetonka and Eden Prairie so his constituents can read the hard copy. Paulsen, who opposes the legislation, said he wants everyone to have a chance to review the legislation:

"With the U.S. House of Representatives expected to debate the bill and possibly vote on it as early as this week, every member of Congress needs to carefully review this bill - and I want to ensure my constituents have the same opportunity."

You can also read the bills online.

Side note: There were several hundred page Health and Human Services bills that were rushed through the Legislature during Paulsen's time as GOP House Majority Leader.

Sullivan getting ready to run?

Posted at 12:58 PM on November 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Former Republican Party Chair Chris Georgacas is contacting Republican activists to gauge interest in whether GOP businessman Brian Sullivan should enter the race for governor. Fourth District GOP Vice Chair Bill Jungbauer, State Vice Chair representing the 4th Congressional District, Bill Jungbauer said Georgacas contacted him last week by e-mail and phone to discuss Sullivan's potential as a candidate. Jungbauer said Georgacas told him Sullivan has strong business experience.

"I believe they're feeling out support for him," Jungbauer said.

Jungbauer said he told Georgacas that he has nothing against Sullivan but is backing former State Auditor Pat Anderson.

Georgacas declined comment when contacted by MPR News. Several sources say he and former Minnesota Republican National Committeeman Jack Meeks are contacting GOP activists to gauge interest in whether there's interest in a Sullivan candidacy. Meeks did not return calls for this report. Former Minnesota Republican Party Chair Ron Carey, who has close ties to Sullivan, also declined comment.

Sullivan did not return repeated calls for comment. He announced in June that he was not going to run for governor in 2010. At the time, he said he wasn't running because he has young children and was trying to start a new business. One Republican activist, who declined to be named because he wasn't authorized by Sullivan to speak, said Sullivan is now giving it serious consideration.

"I would be more surprised if he didn't get in at this point," the activist said.

Sullivan could spend his own resources if he decides to run for governor. In 2002, he lost the GOP endorsement to Tim Pawlenty after spending $2.8 million on the contest, most of it his own money. Sullivan is also well known among GOP activists and is currently Republican National Committeeman for Minnesota.

GOP Party Chair Tony Sutton, who managed Sullivan's 2002 campaign, said he's heard discussion that Sullivan could get into the race but hasn't been privy to any of the details.

"You here rumors all of the time about different candidates," Sutton said. "I hear rumors about Brian Sullivan. I hear rumors about Norm Coleman. I hear rumors about Jim Ramstad. There are always rumors out there who may or may not be running."

There are currently eight Republicans running for governor; Pat Anderson, Leslie Davis, Rep. Tom Emmer, Bill Haas, Sen. David Hann, Phil Herwig, Sen. Michael Jungbauer and Rep. Marty Seifert .

Gov. Pawlenty announced in June that he's not running for a third term.

You can find out where Sullivan stood on the issues in 2002 here.

Anderson's announcement

Posted at 11:48 AM on November 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Former State Auditor Pat Anderson says she would expand the state sales tax to clothing and some services in exchange for cuts in corporate and individual income taxes. The Republican candidate for governor kicked off a 14 city tour this morning at the State Capitol to discuss her ideas for improving Minnesota. The announcement comes exactly one year before the 2010 election. Anderson said she thinks the state's tax system is one area ripe for change.

"We need to move away from taxes on productivity and towards taxes on consumption," Anderson said.

Anderson also said she opposes business subsidies like Governor Pawlenty's JOBZ initiative for rural Minnesota businesses. Anderson is one of eight Republican candidates running for governor.

You can listen to her full speech and the following news conference here: Listen

Seifert highlights regional supporters

Posted at 9:10 AM on November 2, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

State Rep. Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, announced his "Southeast Minnesota Leadership Team" today. The candidate for governor released the list during an online news conference web chat.

"I am honored to have the support of these leaders," Seifert wrote. "This group represents a wide-range of ages, life experiences, professional backgrounds, and leadership experience."

Here's the team:

*Chuck Bradford - Mantorville, Chairman Dodge County Republicans, Deputy Chair 1st Congressional District Republicans

*Fran Bradley - Rochester, former State Representative

*Mike Falk- Albert Lea, Activist, Youth for McCain State Co-Chair 2008

*Katie Gottwalt - Mankato, Vice Chair Minnesota State-Mankato College Republicans

*Jerry Groebner - Madison Lake, Chairman Blue Earth County Republicans

*Bruce Kaskubar, Rochester, Chairman Olmstead County Republicans

*Bob Kierlin, Winona, Former State Senator, Founder of Fastenal

*Tom Kuntz - Owatonna, Mayor

*Mary Myers - Mankato, Republican National Alternate '80, '84, Local Reagan Chair

*Carla Nelson - Rochester, former State Representative

*Jerry Pappenfuss- Winona, business owner, past MN Broadcasters assoc. President

*Sean Paskach - Mankato, executive director Minnesota State-Mankato College Republicans

*Andru Peters- Lake City, Goodhue County BPOU state delegate

*Mark Piepho - Mankato, former State Representative and State Senator

*Robert F. Pierret - Mankato, longtime activist

*Aaron Pilcher- Waseca, Waseca County Activist

*Duane Quam - Byron, former Chair 1st Congressional District Republicans

*Dustin Quimby - Albert Lea, former Treasurer 1st Congressional District Republicans

*Lewis Reiman - Utica, former candidate State House

*Michelle Rifenberg- La Crescent, former State Representative, Former Deputy Chair Minnesota Republican Party

*Connie Ruth - Owatonna, former State Representative

*Howard Swenson - Nicollet, former State Representative

*Dr. Scott Wright - Rochester, former State Senate candidate

Bachmann urges health care foes to storm D.C.

Posted at 6:24 AM on November 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is urging the public to storm Washington D.C. this week to take a stand against the health care legislation moving through the U.S. House. Bachmann and four others have scheduled a Thursday news conference on the steps of the Capitol and is hoping that the public joins here. Here's part of the press release:

"The American people spoke loud and clear at town hall meetings all across the country throughout August. But, it would appear that Congress didn't hear a word they had to say. The Democrats' latest health care proposal unveiled late last week may be packaged a little differently, but it's the same old bad bill as before.

"This bill is a trillion-dollar, budget-busting, government takeover of our health care system. It will put bureaucrats between people and their health care. It will lead to rationed care, hurting the most vulnerable amongst us first. It will break the bank, leaving our children to pay the bill with diminished freedoms and dwindling prosperity.

"The American people need to stand up again and make sure that Congress hears them this time. Speaker Pelosi is putting her bill on fast track to a vote - and it remains to be seen if the House will even get a chance to vote on the commonsense Republican alternatives. The people need to make a House Call on Washington this week and tell their Representatives to vote no to a government take-over of one-fifth of our economy. This is gangster government at its worst.

"I urge all Americans to come to Washington this Thursday. Come and meet up with your Representative and tell them that you want to control your health care."

The Hill reports that Bachmann first raised this idea on Fox News on Friday.

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On the stump...

Posted at 1:57 PM on November 1, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Here's a look at where the candidates for governor will be this week.

Pat Anderson (GOP):
Monday, 11/2/2009, Anderson's official campaign kickoff, 9am, State Capitol. She also makes stops in Rochester, Austin and Mankato on that day as well. I'm linking to the press release so you can find the details of every tour stop for the week.
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, statewide tour continues with events in Duluth, St. Cloud, Alexandria and Douglas County BPOU.
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, statewide tour continues with stops in Moorhead, East Grand Forks and Fergus Falls.
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, St. Cloud candidate forum, 6:30pm, St. Cloud City Hall
Thursday, 11/5/2009, statewide tour continues with stops in Willmar, Marshall and Worthington..

Tom Bakk (DFL):
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, 5pm, Mankato State University and Reproductive Rights Coalition, MSU
Tuesday, 11/3/009, 7pm, Meet-and-greet Belle Plaine Community Library

Leslie Davis (GOP):
Sunday, 11/1/2009 Lit drop and phone for candidates,
Monday, 11/2/2009, Phone for Mpls. candidates and lit drop
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, 8pm, Club Jaeger election celebration
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, St. Cloud gubernatorial program 6:30pm, St. Cloud City Hall
Saturday, 11/7/2009, 10AM, MeetUp for money matters, Bloomington

Mark Dayton (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a schedule.

Matt Entenza (DFL): Monday through Thursday, fundraisers in San Francisco and Washington, D.C.
Thursday, 11/5/2009, Le Seuer County DFL Candidate Forum, 6pm, Le Sueur-Henderson High School Auditorium, 901 East Ferry St., Le Sueur, MN
Friday, 11/6/2009, Winona County DFL kick-off event, 5pm, Holzinger Lodge, Winona
Saturday, 11/7/2009, Breakfast in Waseca, 8:00 AM, State Street Bistro, 118 S. State St., Waseca
Saturday, 11/7/2009, SD29/30 DFL Chili Cookoff & Auction, 5pm, IBEW, 9 80th St SE, Rochester

Susan Gaertner (DFL):
Monday, 11/2/2009 Eastside Progress PAC, 6pm, Letter Carriers "NALC" Hall, 1715 Van Dyke Street
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, 2010 MINNESOTA GUBERNATORIAL FORUM, 6:30pm, St. Cloud City
Thursday, 11/5/2009, Kiwanis Club 11:45am, St. Paul Hotel m street cafe
Thursday, 11/5/2009, Le Sueur County DFL Gubernatorial Candidate Forum, 6pm, Le Sueur-Henderson High School Auditorium 901 Ferry St, Le Sueur, MN

Bill Haas (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

David Hann (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Phil Herwig (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a campaign schedule.

Mike Jungbauer (GOP):
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, St. Cloud hosts Gubernatorial Forum,6:30pm, St. Cloud City Hall

Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL):
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, Election Night Celebrations in Minneapolis & Saint Paul
Friday, 11/6/2009, MREA Conference in Alexandria, 8:30AM

Steve Kelley (DFL):
Monday, 11/2/2009 Air America Radio 6pm
Tuesday, 11/3/2009 Speaking to DFL Senate District 53 in White Bear Lake.
Wednesday, 11/4/2009 Gubernatorial Forum in St. Cloud, St. Cloud City Hall. 6pm
Thursday, 11/5/2009, LaSeur County DFL forum, 6:30pm
Friday, 11/6/2009 Minnesota Rural Education Association, Alexandria, 9:30am
Friday, 11/6/2009, House Party at Roger Moe's home, Erskine, MN, 6pm

John Marty (DFL):
Wednesday, 11/4/2009 St. Cloud Gubernatorial Forum, St. Cloud City Council 6:30pm
Thursday, 11/5 Le Sueur County DFL Gubernatorial Candidate Forum, Le Sueur Henderson High School, 6pm

Tom Rukavina (DFL):
Monday, 11/2/2009, 7pm Cloquet Labor Temple
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, 7:30 pm, Meet and Greet at De Toy's Family Restaurant in Morris 802 Atlantic Ave Morris, MN 56267-1140
Wednesday, 11/4/2009, 7:30 pm, Meet and Greet at Perkins in Moorhead 3005 Highway 10 E Moorhead, MN
Friday, 11/5/2009 5:00 pm, Winona DFL at Holzinger Lodge 651 E Lake Blvd Winona, MN

Marty Seifert (GOP):
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, North Metro Chamber Breakfast - 7:30am
Tuesday, 11/3/2009, Sarna's Classic Grill - Columbia Heights
Tuesday, 11/3/2009 Election Watching Party - 6:30pm, Skyline Lanes, Hermantown
Friday, 11/6/2009, Mn Rural Education Association Forum, 8:30am, Arrowhead Resort, Alexandria

Paul Thissen (DFL):
Tuesday, 11/3/2009 8pm St. Paul DFL Victory Party, St. Paul Hotel, St. Paul
Tuesday, 11/3/2009 8pm Maplewood City Council Victory Party, BW3, Maplewood
Thursday, 11/5/2009, Northfield Meet and Greet, Sayles-Hill Lounge, Carlton Campus
Thursday, 11/4/2009. 6pm, LeSueur County DFL Candidate Forum, Le Sueur-Henderson High School
Friday, 11/6/2009, 12pm, U of M Law School Dems, 229 19th Ave S, Minneapolis
Friday, 11/6/2009, 5pm, Winona County 2010 DFL Kick-Off, Holzing Lodge, Winona
Saturday, 11/7/2009, 5pm -SD29/30 DFL Chilli Cook-Off, IBEW Hall, 9 80th St. SE, Rochester

Collin Peterson a firm no on health care bill

Posted at 10:13 PM on October 30, 2009 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson has come out firmly against the health care proposal in the U.S. House. He told the McLeod County Chronicle that he has issues with the proposal:

"I wish people would quit asking about the public option because it's not what the issue is. This is complete ideology run amuck. The issue is we are not reforming Medicare. We are adding more entitlements without being able to pay for the entitlements we have now."

On the Medicare-payment reform studies in the House bill, Peterson added, "There are not reforms there, it's a study."

"I mean. I have so many problems with this bill I don't even know where to start - too much government bureaucracy, not making the reforms that we need to make in the health care system overall.

"I don't think there's any way that I could support what they're doing unless they start over. That's how bad it is."

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Where the delegation stands on a troop increase in Afghanistan.

Posted at 10:12 AM on October 30, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

MPR aired a story this morning that looked at where Minneosta's congressional delegation stood on sending more troops to Afghanistan. GOP Rep. John Kline will discuss the situation on MPR's Midday at 11 AM.

Here's where the delegation stands on the issue:

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar says she's waiting to see President Obama's plan before she commits to sending more troops to the region. Listen

DFL Sen. Al Franken says he's gathering more information on the issue and is waiting to see President Obama's plan. Listen

DFL Rep. Tim Walz says he's gathering more information and is waiting to see President Obama's plan. He said he may support a troop increase if Obama recommends one. Listen

GOP Rep. John Kline says President Obama should listen to Gen. Stanley McChrystal and send 40,000 troops to the region. Listen

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen said he wants to see President Obama's plan and hear from McChrystal. Listen

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum said she could support a troop increase if certain conditions are met. They include a stronger police force and a more stabilized central government. McCollum said she would not support an increase of 40,000 troops. Listen

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison said he doesn't support a troop increase and wants to see a greater commitment to rebuilding the country. Listen

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann said she supports McChrystal's plan to send 40,000 troops to the region. (we had a problem with the audio. I'll post soon). Listen

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson did not return repeated calls for comment.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar said he wants to know specifics before he supports an increase. He wants to know how much a troop increase would cost, how long the troops would be there and if there's an international concensus on the matter. Listen

Rukavina racks up local Steelworker endorsements

Posted at 7:02 PM on October 29, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

DFL state Representative Tom Rukavina is securing several endorsements from local steelworkers unions. Over the past several weeks, Rukavina was backed by USW Local 1938 (Minntac), USW Local 2705 (Hibbing Taconite), and USW Local 2660 (Keewatin Taconite).

Rukavina has not received the backing of the Minnesota USW. I contacted several members of the USW to get an idea if they'll announce an endorsement but haven't heard back from them.

Kohls suspends campaign for governor

Posted at 11:02 AM on October 29, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

The first Republican candidate for governor has dropped out. State Representative Paul Kohls of Victoria announced in an e-mail to supporters that he's decided to suspend his campaign for governor.

"Although I have continued to gain political and financial supporters since our party's October 3rd convention, it has become clear to me that the activists are lining up in much greater numbers behind some of the other candidates in the race, and there continues to be speculation about others who may enter the race. I certainly continue to believe that I'm the strongest Republican to take on the DFL candidate in 2010, but I also believe that this decision belongs to our party's delegates, not to me.

In light of this and after much prayer and deliberation, I am making the very difficult decision to suspend my campaign for Governor."

In a statement to the press, Kohls didn't say if he was backing another candidate. He also didn't specify in the statement if he'd run for the Minnesota House again.

Kohls just told me he isn't backing another candidate at this time. He also said he isn't sure if he'll run for reelection in the Minnesota House.

There are currently eight other Republican candidates running for the open seat. Governor Pawlenty said in June that he will not seek a third term.

Franken, Kelliher and Rybak to raise money for Clark

Posted at 5:48 PM on October 28, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

I just got my hands on a fundraiser that says U.S. Sen. Al Franken, MN House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, MN Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak will host a fundraiser for state Sen. Tarryl Clark's campaign for Congress.

The fundraiser comes on the heels of a campaign finance report that showed DFL Congressmen Jim Oberstar, Keith Ellison and Collin Peterson donated to Clark's campaign.

Clark is seeking the DFL nomination against Maureen Reed. Whoever wins the nomination will face off against GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann.

FYI:

MPR's Tim Pugmire takes a look at the contest between Clark and Reed.

Groups want photo id requirement at St. Paul polling places.

Posted at 4:12 PM on October 28, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010

The Minnesota Voters Alliance and the Citizen's for Responsible Taxation say they're launching a petition drive to change the St. Paul city charter to require voters to present photo identification in St. Paul city elections. The groups say the want to submit the necessary signatures by July 10th, 2010 to get a question on the November, 2010 ballot. The groups argue that photo identification will reduce fraud at the ballot box:

"Voter ID protects the rights of legitimate voters! If undocumented persons, convicted felons and dead people are allowed to vote, or if properly registered voters have their identities stolen by someone casting an illegal ballot, THE VOTES OF ALL LEGITIMATE VOTERS ARE DEVALUED!

The electoral system cannot inspire public confidence if no safeguards exist to deter or detect fraud or to confirm the identity of voters. Photo identification cards currently are needed to board a plane, enter federal buildings, and cash a check or even rent a rug doctor."

The Minnesota Voter's Alliance unsucessfully sued to prevent Minneapolis from using instant runoff voting in this year's election. Former Republican Secretary of State (and now state rep) Mary Kiffmeyer is on the group's board of advisers.

Meanwhile, opponents of the photo id requirement say there has never been an example of voter impersonation on the books and it will cost the state and local government millions to enact. Here's DFL Secretary of State Mark Ritchie on the issue from February:

"The only argument that's ever made is that this will prevent voter impersonation," Ritchie said. "I've looked through 150 years of Minnesota voting history and haven't found one case. But we have now determined how much the proposals will cost and it's millions for everybody. The locals, the state, everybody involved."

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Candidates want more college students, lower tuition

Posted at 4:04 PM on October 28, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Six candidates for governor shared their visions for post-secondary education today during an event at Anoka Technical College.

Four DFLers and two Republicans participated in the bipartisan forum. Much of the discussion focused on issues like tuition rates, textbook costs and the availability of jobs. State Rep. Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, pledged to lower community college tuition as governor.

"When I appoint MnSCU board of trustees members, I'm going to give them the directive from the governor's office that their job is to get us out of the top ten in tuition costs for our community college students," Seifert said. "We are pricing people out of the market and the ability for them to work their way through school."

Seifert also said he wants to make sure college graduates have jobs available. And he repeated his contention that high taxes are hurting Minnesota's business climate. Rep. Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis, took issue with the claim. Thissen said Seifert and other Republicans are doing the state a disservice with their comments.

It's a great place to start of business," Thissen responded. "And these myths that Rep. Seifert and others throw around saying everybody's flocking away from Minnesota because of one single thing, is terrible for this state. And we don't need a governor who's going to continue down that path."

Former state Sen. Steve Kelley said he wants to raise taxes to solve the state budget deficit and increase education spending. Kelley said he wants all children to graduate from some post-secondary program.

"One of the biggest changes that I would make as governor is a shift from this view that higher eduction is only a private good, and therefore we can ask students to pay more and more tuition because it's good for them," Kelley said. "We have to pay attention to the fact that higher education is also a public good. That we all benefit from having more people graduate from higher education."

Sen. Mike Jungbauer, R-East Bethel, wants money to invest too. But he doesn't want to raise taxes. Jungbauer said he would prefer making a shift in tax policy.

"The way we tax today is on income, which is actually punitive, and we're taxing production," Jungbauer explained. "We need to go to a statewide sales tax, or some way to tax consumption versus production." It's much more stable and will actually generate more money."

Sen. John Marty, DFL-Roseville, said he wants to increase post-secondary participation as well as high school graduation rates.

"We are the only industrialized country in the world where the current crop of high school kids is going to have a lower graduation rate than their parents generation," Marty said. "That's not the way you build for the 21st century."

Organizers of the higher education event invited all the announced DFL and GOP candidates for governor. They said nine were expected to participate, but only six showed up. Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner said she was disappointed by the absences.

"What you're looking at up here is not even a third of the announced gubernatorial candidates from the DFL and Republican parties," Gaertner said. "Why aren't the rest of them here? Why aren't we all talking about this very critical issue?"

Here's the complete audio: Listen

Anderson to officially kick off her campaign for governor on Monday.

Posted at 11:41 AM on October 28, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Republican Pat Anderson will officially kick off her campaign for governor next week. The campaign made a request to hold an event inside the Capitol Rotunda between 8:30 and 10:00 AM on November 2nd. Anderson has been in the race for quite some time but this will be the official kick-off event. The former State Auditor also hired Craig Westover to do communications work for the campaign.

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Bipartisan gubernatorial event Wednesday in Anoka

Posted at 11:38 AM on October 27, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

A bipartisan group of candidates for governor will discuss higher education issues Wednesday at an event in Anoka.

Five Democrats and four Republicans are expected to participate in a gubernatorial panel beginning at 10:30 a.m., as part of a symposium at Anoka Technical College. The theme of the symposium is Career Pathways for Adult Learners. Organizers say the DFLers are Susan Gaertner, Steve Kelley, John Marty, Tom Rukavina, and Paul Thissen. On the GOP side, Pat Anderson, Tom Emmer Mike Jungbauer and Marty Seifert will attend.

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Dayton, AFSCME reflect on endorsement

Posted at 2:10 PM on October 26, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Two days after endorsing former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton for governor in 2010, officials with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 5 held a news conference today with their candidate.

They explained how they view Dayton as the most electable DFL candidate, with two statewide wins under his belt. Dayton is seeking the DFL party endorsement, but he's also planning to run in the primary. AFSCME Executive Director Eliot Seide isn't concerned about the potential of working against a DFL-endorsed candidate.

"We're neither Democrat nor Republican. We're union members, and we support the candidates we think best support working families and have the best ability to win."

Listen to the news conference audio here: Listen

Also, the Republican Party of Minnesota weighed in today with a harsh assessment of the union endorsment.

Here's the GOP news release:

AFSCME Endorses Self-Admitted Failure Mark Dayton

St. Paul- Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Tony Sutton today issued the following statement regarding AFSCME's decision to endorse Mark Dayton for governor.

"Mark Dayton was named one of Time magazine's 'worst senators' in America and he even gave himself an 'F' for his lack of accomplishments in Washington. While that may be the kind of 'experience' AFSCME is looking for in the next governor of our state, I find it hard to believe Minnesotans will find much to praise in Dayton's hard-left record of ineffectiveness and ineptitude. All the money in Dayton's trust fund can't change the fact that he doesn't have what it takes to lead."

Meet AFSCME's Endorsed Candidate Mark Dayton:

Dayton Graded Own Senate Performance An "F." "If U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn., was to grade himself on his accomplishments in Congress, it would be an 'F,' he told students Thursday at the Renville County West High School in Renville." (Tom Cherveny, "Senator Says He Gives Himself An 'F,'" West Central Tribune, April 21, 2006)

Time Magazine: Dayton One Of America's Five "Worst Senators." "When he was elected in 2000, Minnesota Democrat Mark Dayton seemed well prepared, having worked as an aide to Walter Mondale in the 1970s. But he has exhibited erratic behavior since then: in October 2004 he shut down his office for almost a month, citing an unspecified terrorist threat." ("America's Worst - Mark Dayton: The Blunderer," Time, April 14, 2006)

Time: Dayton "Passed Few Bills," Tried To Create A Department Of Peace & "Confounded His Colleagues." "Inside the Senate, Dayton has passed few bills partly because some are too liberal for the Republican-controlled body, including one that would have created a Department of Peace and Nonviolence. He has confounded his colleagues by complaining about basic facts of the job, such as his limited power in a chamber where authority derives from seniority." ("America's Worst - Mark Dayton: The Blunderer," Time, April 14, 2006)

Bizarre Dayton Shut Down His Washington Senate Office Over Theoretical Terrorist Threat. "When Senator Mark Dayton shut down his Washington office last week, ostensibly out of concern for his staff's safety, many on Capitol Hill wondered if the Minnesota Democrat knew something everyone else didn't. The answer, it turns out, is far from it. Dayton last month received the same briefing as his fellow Senators about a CIA worst-case scenario involving simultaneous terrorist attacks across the country. Yet he apparently took the hypothetical threat as an imminent one. 'Most people who heard the briefing,' sniffs an intelligence official, 'understood the context. It was theoretical.'" (Elaine Shannon, "Why Didn't 99 Other Senators Close Up Shop Too?" Time, October 25, 2004)

Hard Left Dayton Attacked Governor Pawlenty For Refusing To Tax Raises. "That Pawlenty won't raise taxes 'even one penny,' Dayton said, 'is a disgrace.'" (Brad Swenson, "Beltrami County DFL fundraiser: Gubernatorial candidates blast budget," The Bemidji Pioneer, February 17, 2009)

Dayton's Odd Behavior Troubled His Own Staff. "His 1998 field director, Monte Jarvis, says Dayton didn't trust his staff, and micromanaged the campaign. 'He worried about the cleanliness of the refrigerator and the way the newspaper was situated on the table in the morning, and if it was out of order,' Jarvius recollects." (Laura McCallum, "Senate Candidate Profile: Mark Dayton," Minnesota Public Radio Website, August 1, 2000)

DFL gov candidates heading northwest

Posted at 10:28 PM on October 25, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

All of the DFL candidates for governor will be heading to Moorhead next Sunday for a DFL sponsored debate. Here are the details:

(Moorhead, Minn)--The Seventh Congressional District Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party will host a DFL gubernatorial debate from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, November 8 at Glasrud Auditorium, in Weld Hall, on the campus of Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Confirmed candidates include Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher, former U.S. Senator Mark Dayton, Sen. Tom Bakk, Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner, former state Sen. Steve Kelley, Rep. Tom Rukavina, Sen. John Marty, Matt Entenza, Rep. Paul Thissen and Mayor R.T. Rybak.

"This is a great opportunity to meet these gubernatorial candidates. We had a large turnout of young people in this area for the last election. By having this event at a convenient campus location we are encouraging interested folks of all ages to participate in this important forum." - Paul Wright, chairperson, Seventh Congressional District Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (CD 7 DFL).

###

DFLer set to take on Kline

Posted at 10:06 PM on October 25, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

Dan Powers is scheduled to officially announce his campaign to take on GOP Rep. John Kline in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District. Powers has an invite already scheduled on Facebook and also set up a campaign website.

The sites don't provide a lot of detail on Powers but the Facebook page takes a shot at Kline:

Congressman Kline has consistently been a roadblock to every measure of President Obama's plan to get our country on the right track. While the American people want to see health care reform, an end to the influence of special interests and Washington insiders, and the safe and rapid return of our troops, Kline stands with his bosses in the Republican Party to extend the failed policies of the Bush administration.

Dan Powers, when elected, will stand with President Obama and enact the priorities voters overwhelmingly approved nationwide last year. Dan will fight for the first-class health care system we so desperately need, give teachers the power they need to allow our next generation to achieve in the classroom, and turn our economy around towards prosperity.

Powers could have his hands full. Kline is in his fourth term in Congress and won by wide margins in each race. He won by 15 percentage points in 2008, 16 points in 2006 and 2004 and 11 points in 2002.

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Mark Dayton on the AFSCME endorsement

Posted at 1:38 PM on October 25, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton said he's honored to get the endorsement of AFSCME Council 5. The DFLer said the union's backing will bring "enormous political strength" to his campaign.

Listen to Dayton here: Listen

(h/t MPR's Jess Mador)

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On the stump...

Posted at 1:14 PM on October 25, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

Here's a look at where the candidates for governor will be this week.

Pat Anderson (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a schedule of public events

Tom Bakk (DFL):
Thurs, Oct. 29, Senate Dist. 45 Fall Fundraiser, Robbinsdale, MN

Leslie Davis (GOP):
Tuesday, October 27, Wadena County Republican Fundraiser, Ted and Gen's on Highway 10 in Aldrich, MN, 5:30pm
Thursday, October 29, Benton County Gubernatorial Candidate Event Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, 7pm
Friday, October 30, Otter Tail Republican Party Rally, Battle Lake Community Center off Main Street (Highways 210 and 78)
Saturday, October 31, U of M football game 5-7pm, Signs and flyers, TCF Stadium

Mark Dayton (DFL):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events. Dayton does have a 1pm Monday news conference to discuss the AFSCME endorsement.

Tom Emmer (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events.

Matt Entenza (DFL):
Tues, 10/27, Tonka/Lake County Progressives Meeting, 7:30 - 8:30 PM Byerly's Community Room, Ridgedale Mall
Tues, 10/27, Meeting with DFLers from Polk, Red Lake and Pennington Counties, 4 pm, RBJ's Restaurant, 1601 University Ave., Crookston
Thurs, Oct 29, SD 45 Annual Fall Fundraiser, 7pm, St. Petersburg Restaurant, 3610 France Ave N, Robbinsdale

Susan Gaertner (DFL):
Sun, 10/25, SD23 DFL Halloween Party, 4:30pm-7pm, Mankato Eagles Club, 708 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN
Tues, 10/27, Retired Teachers Chapter 59 meeting, 12pm, 67 8th ave NE, Minneapolis MN
Tues, 10/27, Edina DFL links, 7pm, Davanni's that is on Vernon Avenue just west of Highway 100.
Wed, 10/28, K-14 Symposium, 10:30AM, Anoka Technical College
Thurs, 10/29, SD45 Fall Fundraiser, 7pm, 3610 France Avenue North, Robbinsdale, MN
Friday, 10/30, Candidate Karaoke, 6pm, Arnellia's, 1183 University Ave. St. Paul, MN

Bill Haas (GOP):
Tues, 10-27, Wadena 6PM Candidates forum Aldrich MN
Thurs, 10-29, Benton County Candidates forum Sauk Rapids High School
Friday, 10-30, Battle Lake Candidates Forum 5PM

David Hann (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events.

Phil Herwig (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events.

Mike Jungbauer (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events.

Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL):
Tuesday, 10/27, Maple Grove Links Meeting, The Lookout: 8672 Pineview Lane North, Maple Grove, MN, 7pm
Friday, October 30, Candidate Karaoke, 1183 University Ave, St. Paul, 6:00PM

Paul Kohls (GOP):
The campaign did not provide me with a list of campaign events.
Tuesday, 10/27, Meet and greet with activists in Brainerd
Tuesday, 10/27, Wadena GOP event in Aldrich
Thursday, 10/29, Benton County GOP gubernatorial forum at Sauk Rapids HS
Friday, 10/30, Otter Tail County GOP forum at Battle Lake Communit Center

Steve Kelley (DFL):
Sunday, 10/25, 6-8PM: Young Professionals for Steve Kelley, Denny Kemp Salon 605 University Ave. SE, Minneapolis
Tuesday, 10/27, 7:00PM Lake Country/Tonka Progressives, Byerly's Community Room, Ridgedale
Wednesday, 10/28, 10:30-12:00: K-14 Symposium on Higher Ed &Workforce Issues candidate panel, Anoka Technical College
Thursday, 10/29, 8:45pm SD45 Fundraiser
Friday, 10/30, 6:00 pm: (Potential) Candidate Karaoke in St. Paul

John Marty (DFL):
Sunday, 10/25, SD 23 DFL Halloween Party, Mankato Eagles Club, 708 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN, 4:30pm
Monday, 10/26, U of MN Law School Students Meet w/ John Marty Mondale Hall 229 19th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55455 12pm
Monday, 10/26, Rebecca Bormann's House Party 1905 Carl St, Lauderdale, MN 55113 7pm
Tuesday, 10/27, Bloomington Progressive Issues Forum Davanni's Restaurant, 8605 Lyndale Ave S, Bloomington, MN 6-7pm
Tuesday, 10/27, Progressive Women for Democracy Meeting Mayflower Community Congregation Church 106 East Diamond Lake Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55419 7pm
Wednesday, 10/28, Panelist at K-14 Symposium at Anoka Technical College 1355 West Highway 10, Anoka, MN 9am
Thursday, 10/29, Health Care Conversation w/ John Marty Northfield Community Resource Ctr Room 104 1651 Jefferson Parkway Northfield, MN 6pm
Friday, 10/30, Candidate Karaoke 2009 Arnellia's 1183 University Ave St. Paul 6pm
Sunday, 11/1, John to Speak about MN Health Plan to First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis, 900 Mount Curve, Minneapolis 9:30am

Tom Rukavina (DFL):
Thursday, 10/29, 9am Wilder Breakfast - Crowne Plaza, St. Paul, 7:00 pm DFL SD 45 (C) - Robinsdale
Friday, 10/30, 6pm Candidate Karaoke - Arnellia's, 1183 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104-4124

Marty Seifert (GOP):
Tuesday, 10/27, Wadena County BPOU , Aldrich, MN
Thursday, 10/29, Benton County GOP, Sauk Rapids, MN
Friday, 10/30, Otter Tail GOP, Battle Lake, MN

Paul Thissen (DFL):
Sunday, 10/25, 4:30pm, SD 23 Halloween party, Mankato Eagles Club, 708 N Riverfront, Mankato
Wednesday, 10/28, 10:30am Anoka Technical College Forum, 1355 W Highway 10, Anoka
Thursday, 10/29, 7PM, SD 45 Fall Fundraiser, St. Petersburg Restaurant, 3610 France Ave N, Robbinsdale
Thursday, 10/29, 9PM, St. Olaf College Dems, 1500 St. Olaf Ave, Northfield
Friday, 10/30, 6PM, Candidate Karaoke, Arnellia's, 1183 university Ave, St. Paul

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Dayton gets AFSCME Council 5 endorsement

Posted at 9:32 PM on October 24, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Minnesota Governor

The American federation of State, County and Municpal Employees Council 5 has endorsed former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton for governor.

AFSCME leaders made their pick late today after spending the day screening gubernatorial candidates. Executive Director Eliot Seide compared Dayton to AFSCME members in dedication to public service. He also noted the Democrat's experience in winning previous statewide elections.

"He has the experience to lead us out of the budget crisis," Seide said.

UPDATE

Here's the AFSCME news release:

AFSCME ENDORSES MARK DAYTON FOR GOVERNOR

(St. Paul) -- Today, one of the state's largest and most politically active unions - AFSCME Minnesota Council 5 - endorsed Mark Dayton for governor.

Union president Mike Buesing explains, "Mark Dayton is devoted to public service, like AFSCME members are. He's been a public school teacher, a social worker, and he's led three state agencies. Mark's been a good boss and he's got the experience to lead Minnesota out of its budget crisis. He wants our wealthiest citizens to pay their fair share of taxes so we can afford the vital public services that Minnesotans want and need during tough times. We believe Mark Dayton can make Minnesota work again."

AFSCME Minnesota Council 5 hosted the first televised debate between gubernatorial candidates with 900 union members in the audience on Oct. 9. Then, on Oct. 24, the union's executive board screened all 10 DFL candidates, as well as Republican candidate Pat Anderson. The candidates were weighed on working family issues and their electability.

"Mark Dayton has won statewide elections -- twice," says Eliot Seide, director of AFSCME Council 5. "Minnesotans know and like Mark. That's because he listens more than any other candidate. He wears his heart on his sleeve and it's obvious that he cares about people."

AFSCME's endorsement is a big prize. The union spent nearly $1 million on the 2006 governor's race, mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers, and 70 percent of its members voted for the union's endorsed candidate.

Council 5 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees is one strong united voice for 43,000 public and non-profit workers who provide the vital services that sustain our quality of life in Minnesota. The union includes 20,000 state employees.