Capitol View Category Archive: Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Oberstar goes down

Posted at 5:21 AM on November 3, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Minnesota's northeastern Congressional district is back in Republican hands for the first time since the Truman administration. Challenger Chip Cravaack upset DFLer Jim Oberstar in the district that runs from Chisago City to the Canadian border.

Cravaak defeated Oberstar by about 4,000 votes.

"The votes have spoken," Cravaack said. "I hope they are paying attention in Washington. Because you have spoken loud and clear, not just from Minnesota, but from across this great nation. Let this serve as a warning to Congress. We don't work for you. You work for us."

All the rest of Minnesota's Congressional delegation won re-election, including a closely watched race in southern Minnesota's 1st district, represented by DFLer Tim Walz.

Listen to Cravaack's victory speech here: Listen

MN Congressional delegation to play Musical Chairs

Posted at 8:35 PM on November 2, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD2, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD6, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD7, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Several news organizations, including CBS, NPR and NBC, are projecting that Republicans will take control of the U.S. House. If that's the case, Minnesota will see a net loss in Chairs of House Committees.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar and DFL Rep. Collin Peterson currently chair two key committees. Oberstar is the chair of the House Transportation Committee. Peterson is the chair of the House Agriculture Committee. They will both lose their chairmanships (if they win reelection).

Meanwhile, GOP Rep. John Kline will likely become chair of the House Education and Labor Committee. He's the ranking GOP member of that committee.

Another question is whether GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann makes a play for a leadership position. Bachmann has raised more money than any other candidate running for the U.S. House.

Peterson switches gears on Election Night.

Posted at 5:07 PM on November 2, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD7

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson was scheduled to watch the returns at his home in Detroit Lakes, MN. But MPR's photographer says Peterson won't be making the trip to his house in Detroit Lakes. Instead, he's staying at his cabin in Thief River Falls.

Cravaack to hit 36 cities in 96 hours

Posted at 11:29 PM on October 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Republican Chip Cravaack is scheduled to visit 36 cities in the final 96 hours of the campaign. The Republican running for Congress in Minnesota's 8th District is scheduled to kick off the tour in Duluth on Friday at 10am. Gov. Pawlenty, GOP Rep. John Kline and Republican gubernatorial hopeful Tom Emmer will join Cravaack at several stops on the tour. The Cravaack campaign scheduled 36 stops - one for every year DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar is in office.

Don't know who Cravaack is? Listen to the stump speech he gave to his supporters in Cambridge on Wednesday night: Listen

Democrats rally on the Iron Range

Posted at 11:20 PM on October 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Roughly 800 people attended a DFL rally in Virginia, MN tonight. The group showed up to see Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Mark Dayton, DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar, state legislators representing the Iron Range and DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar. The event was organized as a Get Out the Vote rally for DFL candidates.

Oberstar, who is engaged in a tough reelection fight with Republican Chip Cravaack, didn't back away from any of his votes. In fact, he praised the stimulus and said it was a major factor in why the taconite mines on the Iron Range are hiring again. He also repeated his support for Social Security and defended his vote for the health care bill.

"We just passed the biggest health insurance reform in the history of this country in this Congress and we're not going to let the Republicans take it away from us," Oberstar shouted.

Dayton told the audience that he'll work to ensure that the state's schools are funded and will work to keep college tuition affordable. He said his plan to tax Minnesota's top earners is better than the sales tax expansion proposed by the Independence Party's Tom Horner or the cuts Republican Tom Emmer will need to do if he doesn't raise taxes.

"These are going to be hard times. There's no easy way to balance a $6 billion deficit. But there are right and wrong ways. There are better and worse ways," Dayton said.

Both Dayton and Oberstar are relying on heavy turnout in northern Minnesota and the Iron Range. DFL candidates who have not performed well in this part of the state rarely win statewide.

Here's Oberstar's speech: Listen

Here's Dayton's speech: Listen

Comment on this post

Quie backs Demmer

Posted at 2:08 PM on October 27, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD1

Former GOP Gov. Al Quie is backing Republican Randy Demmer in Minnesota's 1st District. The endorsement comes three days after former GOP Gov. Arne Carlson backed DFL Rep. Tim Walz. Here's a letter that Quie, who represented Minnesota's 1st Congressional District in Congress, penned on Demmer's behalf:

The election is near and I know many of you are struggling over many races in next Tuesday's election. The person who represents you in Congress is of utmost importance, and I know Randy Demmer is a person who will serve you well. His experience will enable him to hit the ground running, but more importantly, he is a man of principle, thoughtful and courageous.

There is no question this country is in serious financial straits. Astronomical increases in our national debt are predicted far into the future. The recently enacted federal health care legislation needs immediate repair. Our agricultural communities will be devastated by the proposed cap and trade tax.

Randy Demmer understands these issues, and he has the experience and the track record that show he knows how to get things done. His wisdom and fiscal conservatism were gained through a lifetime in Southern Minnesota. He's farmed and owned small businesses. He married his high school sweetheart, a lifelong nurse. He's lived what's most important to this district.

In these trying times, Southern Minnesota needs a Representative who never wavers on individual responsibility, personal freedom and fiscal restraint - that person is Randy Demmer. He has shown these qualities over the course of a lifetime of service to his community, and that is why he has my endorsement as the public servant who will represent and serve you best.

Sincerely,

Al Quie
Former First District Congressman and Minnesota Governor

Comment on this post

Arne Carlson backs Walz

Posted at 5:04 PM on October 24, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD1

Former GOP Gov. Arne Carlson announced today that he's backing DFL Rep. Tim Walz's campaign for Congress. Carlson announced that he believes Walz is better suited to serve Minnesota's 1st District than Republican challenger Randy Demmer:

"In this election, Tim Walz is the clear choice," said Carlson in a news release. "I'm continually impressed with Tim's leadership and his ability to bring people together in southern Minnesota communities. It is clear that people identify with Tim's experience as a teacher, veteran and football coach and I think that helps them lay aside partisan predispositions and join with Tim to solve problems."

Comment on this post

Duluth News Tribune backs Cravaack

Posted at 4:58 PM on October 24, 2010 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

The Duluth News Tribune announced today that it was endorsing Republican Chip Cravaack over DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar. The reason, the paper says, is because of the stance the candidates have made on fiscal matters:

The brake pedal of fiscal responsibility is needed in Washington now as much as ever. Although Oberstar voted in 1993 for the biggest debt reduction in post-World War II history, the 17-term incumbent is hardly the embodiment of financial restraint and new direction.

His opponent, on the other hand, Republican Chip Cravaack, represents what Congress, including Minnesota's 8th Congressional District, needs at this critical crossroads in American history. A pro-business, fiscally conservative, former Navy captain, with a master's degree in education, Cravaack has smarts. He is articulate, reasoned and composed. More critically, he has specific and promising strategies to pull the nation out of its financial funk.

Oberstar told the AP that he's "disappointed but not surprised," given what he says is the News Tribune's conservative editorial trend since its purchase by Fargo. N.D.-based Forum Communications.

Comment on this post

Obama rallies his party

Posted at 9:09 PM on October 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

President Obama offered a defense of his party's policies, including healthcare overhaul and Wall Street reform during a campaign stop at the University of Minnesota. He told the audience that voting for Republicans would be voting to slide backwards and undo the economic progress Democrats had made.

Obama was in the Twin Cities to raise money for Minnesota Democrats running for Congress and to hold a campaign event for Democrat Mark Dayton's campaign for governor. Obama said Dayton was the only candidate capable of delivering change.

"So I need you to keep fighting, I need to you to keep working, I need you to keep believing. And if you knock on some doors again, if you make some phone calls again, if you talk to your neighbors again, then I promise you we won't just win this election, we won't just have Mark as governor, but you and I together, we are going to restore the american dream."

You can listen to President Obama's speech here: Listen

All of the candidates will attend different campaign events today. They will then take part in a live televised debate at 6pm on KSTP-TV.

8th District debate

Posted at 8:36 PM on October 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

I finally tracked down the audio from last night's 8th Distict debate between DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar and Republican Chip Cravaack. The two took part in the second and final debate of a campaign that has become pretty interesting.

You can listen to the audio here: Listen

Meanwhile, Oberstar released an ad criticizing Cravaack.

Emmer sharpens criticism of Dayton at GOP rally

Posted at 2:24 PM on October 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD6

Republican Tom Emmer is sharpening his criticism of Democrat Mark Dayton on the campaign trail. During a campaign rally today in Woodbury, Emmer relied on his platform of redesigning and limiting the size of government. But he also criticized Dayton for using his family fortunes to seek political office.

"What has Senator Dayton done with the great wealth that has been bestowed upon him?" Emmer asked. "He's offered to run for office for the last thirty years."

Emmer also said Dayton doesn't have the right "life experience" that the state needs right now. Emmer was joined by GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann and Minnesota Republican Party Chair Tony Sutton.

Here's the audio of Bachmann and Emmer: Listen

I'll post the audio from President Obama's rally once it becomes available.

Comment on this post

Mondale to campaign with Walz

Posted at 4:18 PM on October 22, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD1

Former Vice-President Walter Mondale will campaign with DFL Rep. Tim Walz on Sunday in Rochester. Mondale and Walz are scheduled to attend a rally together at the IBEW Local union hall in Rochester at 3pm. The campaign also says there will be a surprise endorsement at the event.

Pro Life groups to flood the 8th with lit

Posted at 10:02 PM on October 20, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Two prominent groups opposed to legalized abortion are getting heavily involved in the congressional contest in Minnesota's 8th District.

The conservative Susan B. Anthony List, a Washington D.C. based Pro-life group, reported spending $32,432 on mailers in opposition to DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar.

Meanwhile, Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life is spending $9417 on mailings on behalf of Oberstar's GOP opponent, Chip Cravaack. The MCCL endorsed Cravaack last week after backing Oberstar for decades.

The Susan B. Anthony List and the MCCL both say they're backing Cravaack because of Oberstar's support for the health care reform law. They say the law would allow federal taxpayers funds to be spent on abortion. At issue is the health exchanges and whether HMOs would be allowed to offer abortion coverage even to people who receive federal subsidies. Oberstar and his campaign staffers argue that there are protections in place to ensure federal funds aren't spent on abortion (Read more about it on Politfact).

Susan B. Anthony List, which was also a strong supporter of Oberstar in the past, hinted in a March news release that it would make Oberstar's vote an issue in the upcoming election:

"Congressman Oberstar can no longer call himself 'pro-life.' He has set himself with the likes of NARAL, NOW, and Planned Parenthood, and has betrayed his pro-life principles and his constituents. Seventy-four percent of voters in the eighth district oppose taxpayer funding of abortion as part of health care reform, according to a survey commissioned by the Susan B. Anthony List this week. Fifty-six percent of Rep. Oberstar's constituents surveyed also said that they would be less likely to vote for him next Election Day if he supported healthcare with abortion funding.

The key question is whether voters will continue their practice of routinely sending Oberstar back to Washington or choose to side with the Pro Life groups who now oppose him.

Comment on this post

DCCC enters the race in MN-1

Posted at 1:57 PM on October 20, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD1

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee announced today that it will start running ads in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. The DCCC says this ad will start running tomorrow. It criticizes Republican Randy Demmer for his "support of partially privatizing Social Security."

The DCCC's Gabby Adler wouldn't disclose the size of the buy but said "it's a significant buy that will saturate the market..."

The DCCC ad comes on the heels of two ads targeting DFL Rep. Tim Walz. The NRCC is spending $100,000 worth of ads criticizing Walz for voting for the stimulus bill.

The American Action Network, run by former GOP Sen. Norm Coleman, is also running an ad criticizing Walz for federal spending.

The Walz campaign called on Coleman to disclose the source of his donors once it became know that the ad would run. Coleman declined saying he's following the law. He also said Walz and other Democrats didn't complain when outside groups ran ads supporting them in 2006 and 2008.

A recent poll by Survey USA and KAAL-TV shows Walz leading Demmer by five percentage points. Internal polling must show the race is tight.

Gingrich to campaign with Meeks and Demmer

Posted at 4:00 PM on October 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD1

One of the candidates who may challenge President Obama in 2012 will be in Minnesota on Saturday. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich will campaign with his former staffer, Lt. Gov. Candidate Annette Meeks and 1st District Republican candidate Randy Demmer on Saturday. The three will campaign at Winona State University on Saturday morning at 8am.

DNC Chair in MN on Wednesday

Posted at 3:55 PM on October 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD5

DNC Chair Tim Kaine will be in Minnesota to kick off the party's Get Out the Vote efforts. Kaine will appear at the U of M with DFL Rep. Keith Ellison and DFL Associate Chair Donna Cassutt to kick off the party's canvassing efforts at the U of M. The event will be held at Tony's Diner at 3pm.

8th District debate

Posted at 3:21 PM on October 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar and Republican Chip Cravaack took part in a feisty debate at the DECC in Duluth this morning. More than 1,000 people showed up to watch the debate. MPR's Bob Kelleher wrote a story about the debate. You can read that here.

We also uploaded the entire debate audio: Listen

Comment on this post

Final two weeks

Posted at 10:57 AM on October 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD2, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD3, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD4, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD5, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD6, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD7, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8, MN Legislature

There are two weeks left until Election Day and most of the candidates will be making their final push to win their respective races.

I put together a handy dandy cheat sheet so you know the schedule for debates, candidate appearances and other notable events.

This schedule is subject to change but it should give you a good idea of what's happening in the final two weeks. Please let me know if I missed anything.

Tuesday, 10/19
MPR's Midday hosts a Secretary of State debate between DFL incumbent Mark Ritchie and Republican Dan Severson on Midday at 11
IP candidate Tom Horner has presser at 2pm to announce an endorsement.
Democrat Mark Dayton campaigns in Northwest Minnesota with DFL Rep. Collin Peterson

Wednesday, 10/20

Thursday, 10/21
Dayton speech at 11AM at MEA
Republican Tom Emmer campaigns in Monticello and St. Cloud
League of Women Voters host a 4th Congressional District candidate debate at Wilder Foundation Auditorium.

Friday, 10/22
Rochester Chamber of Commerce hosts a gubernatorial debate at 11:30 am
Horner campaigns in Red Wing and Rochester
Emmer campaigns in southern MN
Debate Minnesota hosts an 8th District Congressional candidate debate between DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar and Republican Chip Cravaack in Grand Rapids.

Saturday, 10/23
Dayton goes pheasant hunting with DFL Rep. Collin Peterson in Montevideo
President Obama holds a rally at U of M for Dayton

Sunday, 10/24
KSTP-TV/League of Women Voters host a Gubernatorial debates at Metro State University in St. Paul at 6pm.

Monday, 10/25
MPR's Midday hosts a 4th Congressional debate between DFL Rep. Betty McCollum and Republican Teresa Collett
MPR's Midday hosts a 5th Congressional debate between DFL Rep. Keith Ellison, Republican Joel Demos, and the IP's Tom Schrunk

Tuesday, 10/26
MN Campaign Finance Board releases finance reports for state candidates and state PACs
Debate Minnesota hosts a Gubernatorial debate in Mankato at 7pm.
St. Cloud Chamber hosts a 6th District candidate debate.
Midday hosts a 2nd District Congressional debate between GOP Rep. John Kline and Democrat Shelley Madore. candidates debate on Midday.
Midday hosts a 3rd District Congressional debate that features GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen, Democrat Jim Meffert and the IP's Jon Oleson.

Wednesday, 10/27
KARE and MPR conducts a "job interview" with gubernatorial candidates at Macalaster College at 6:30pm.
Edina Chamber hosts a 3rd District candidate debate at Interlachen Country Club at 11:30.
Midday hosts a 7th Congressional District debate between DFL Rep. Collin Peterson and Republican Lee Byberg.

Thursday, 10/28
Midday hosts a 6th Congressional District debate featuring GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann, Democrat Tarryl Clark and the IP's Bob Anderson.
Midday hosts a State Auditor debate featuring DFL incumbent Rebecca Otto and Republican Pat Anderson.
MN Chamber's Manufacturing Summit will feature a Lt. Gov. candidate debate featuring Republican Annette Meeks, the IP's Jim Mulder and Democrat Yvonne Prettner-Solon.

Friday, 10/29
TPT's Almanac features the candidates for governor.
Midday will feature the four Legislative leaders, DFL Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller, Republican Senate Minority Leader Dave Senjem, DFL House Majority Leader Tony Sertich and Republican House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers to discuss the race for Legislature.

Saturday, 10/30

Sunday, 10/31
MPR hosts the final gubernatorial debate at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul.

Monday, 11/1

Tuesday, 11/2
Election Day

Comment on this post

Clark raises $1.8 million in third quarter

Posted at 2:50 PM on October 15, 2010 by Mike Mulcahy (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD6

DFL 6th District congressional candidate Tarryl Clark says she raised $1.8 million for her campaign between July and September for a total of nearly $4 millon.

The campaign said it had $868,000 on hand for at the end of the reporting period. It also said it believes Clark has raised more than any other Democrat running for the House this year--incumbent or challenger.

Incumbent Republican Michele Bachmann's campaign said earlier this week that it raised a whopping $5.4 million in the third quarter, for a campaign total of $10, a new record in Congressional fundraising.

Comment on this post

7th District dollars!

Posted at 11:20 AM on October 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD7

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson's campaign for Congress reports raising $1,076,459 this election cycle. He raised $217,850 in the 3rd Quarter. Peterson has $814,929 left in the bank. Read the summary here.

Meanwhile, Republican Lee Byberg reports raising $259,579 this election cycle. He raised $151,273 in the last quarter. Byberg reports having $37,059 but reports having campaign debts of $64,042. Read the summary here.

4th District dollars!

Posted at 11:18 AM on October 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD4

The two candidates in Minnesota's 4th Congressional District have filed their campaign finance reports. DFL Rep. Betty McCollum reports raising $756,671 this cycle. She raised $135,552 in the 3rd Quarter. She has $188,101 left in the bank. Read summary here.

Meanwhile Republican Teresa Collett reports raising $135,994 this cycle and $78,099 in the 3rd Quarter. She has $32,655 left in the bank. Read summary here.

TV ads highlight 3rd district race

Posted at 10:30 AM on October 13, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD3

Two years ago, one of Minnesota's hottest races was for the open 3rd District congressional seat.

This year, the race between first-term Republican incumbent Erik Paulsen, his DFL challenger Jim Meffert and Independence candidate Jon Oleson was hardly getting noticed until Paulsen launched a TV ad assault against Meffert.

Meffert, a former Minnesota PTA president, described the campaign commercials as distorted and dishonest. Paulsen accused Meffert of starting the war of words with online videos and news releases.

Meanwhile, Oleson is trying to get his alternative centrist message out to voters with no money.

All three candidates recently talked about the campaign. Here are the interviews:

Erik Paulsen Listen

Jim Meffert Listen

Jon Oleson Listen

MCCL backs Cravaack over Oberstar

Posted at 11:10 AM on October 12, 2010 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Campaign 2010: U.S. MN CD8

Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life. a group opposed to legalized abortion, is backing Republican Chip Cravaack over DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar in Minnesota's 8th Congressional District.

MCCL has backed Oberstar in past elections. Here's the release from MCCL:

"Chip Cravaack exemplifies everything the people of Minnesota's 8th District look for in a candidate for Congress," said MCCL Executive Director Scott Fischbach. "Cravaack has a passionate dedication to uphold the constitutional right to life and to protect our country's most vulnerable citizens - the unborn."

Cravaack has made the protection of lives threatened by abortion, infanticide and euthanasia central to his campaign. He strongly believes in the inalienable right to life from conception to natural death. Cravaack opposes the destruction of human embryos for experimentation and supports ethical adult stem cell research, which "has shown great possibilities and does not trade one life to save another," he has stated.

Cravaack and Jim Oberstar, the current 8th District congressman, differ sharply on these issues and on the Obama health care overhaul, which instituted health care rationing and taxpayer funding of abortion. Less than a month before voting for the Obama health care bill, Oberstar stated, "I will not vote for a health care bill that doesn't have the [pro-life] House abortion language in it." The House language, which would have prohibited taxpayer funded abortion, was removed from the final bill, but Oberstar abandoned his pledge and voted in favor of it. He also led an effort to lobby pro-life Democrats in the U.S. House to vote for final passage of the Obama health care bill, even though it included rationing and abortion funding.

"Jim Oberstar has turned away from the pro-life principles he used to hold in common with the citizens of the 8th District," Fischbach said. "He has walked away from the pro-life movement. For years Jim Oberstar has had a 100 percent pro-life voting record and now he has a zero percent pro-life voting record. Just as Jim Oberstar has abandoned the babies, it is time for the voters to retire Jim Oberstar."

Fortunately, voters have a strong pro-life candidate in Chip Cravaack. MCCL Federal PAC urges the people of Minnesota's 8th District to vote for Chip Cravaack. He is the candidate with the courage and conviction to protect unborn babies, senior citizens, disabled persons and everyone else who life is threatened by abortion, health care rationing and other dangers.

Update: Here's a fact-check on whether the federal health care law allows federal funding to cover abortions.

Update:

Oberstar's campaign spokesman John Schadl says voters know Oberstar opposes abortion.

"It's regrettable I think that this decision has been made but people know who Jim is and what his values are. I don't know that this is going to be a game changer. I think we'll work a little harder to just restate Jim's values."

Schadl says Oberstar worked to ensure that federal funds wouldn't be spent on abortions when Congress debated the federal health care overhaul bill earlier this year.

Comment on this post

Census expert: MN won't lose a seat in Congress

Posted at 5:02 PM on September 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

A new study based on projected Census population figures shows Minnesota will likely keep all eight of its current U-S house seats.

The 435 U-S house seats are divided between states based on population. Last year, estimates projected Minnesota to lose a congressional seat to Missouri. But Kimball Brace of Virginia-based Election Data Services says the new estimates show Missouri will instead likely lose a seat to Minnesota.

And Brace says that's a fortunate finding for Minnesota.

"When you're in a losing situation you have less members pushing your kind of issues that may be important to members of your state. And it becomes more difficult to have the kind of issues that you think are important brought up by congress and passed in terms of legislative initiatives."

Brace cautions that we won't know for sure if Minnesota will keep all its seats until final Census numbers come out in late December.

"The addition of the military overseas could have an impact," he said. "Particularly in your state where there's not a lot of military overseas from Minnesota."

(H/T Rupa Shenoy)

Durenberger endorses Walz

Posted at 4:30 PM on September 20, 2010 by Mark Zdechlik (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Former Republican Sen. Dave Durenberger endorsed two-term 1st District DFL Congressman Tim Walz at a news conference this afternoon in Rochester.

"Tim Walz knows how to put partisan politics aside and get the job done. He listens, and he brings people together to solve the challenges we face," Durenberger said. "I support Tim because we need more representatives in Washington who approach problem solving like Tim does."

Republicans are hoping Rep. Randy Demmer, R-Hayfield, will be able to pick off Walz. They're targeting the race and say they see big opportunity in the 1st District, which has traditionally leaned toward the GOP.

In addition to endorsing Walz, months ago Durenberger endorsed the IP's candidate for governor Tom Horner. Horner served as Durenberger's spokesman and his chief of staff when Durenberger was in the Senate.

Comment on this post

Newt Gingrich coming to MN

Posted at 1:27 PM on September 17, 2010 by Tom Scheck (5 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich will raise money for the Minnesota Republican Party on October 6th. The MNGOP is asking donors to give $5,000 a couple. Gingrich, who is considering a run for president in 2012, will speak at the Minneapolis Marriot. Here's the invite:

State Chair Tony Sutton Governor Tim Pawlenty Congressman John Kline Congresswoman Michele Bachmann Congressman Erik Paulsen

Honorary Finance Chairs
Brad Anderson & Bob Ulrich

Invite you to Join
The Honorable Newt Gingrich

For an Exclusive Roundtable Discussion
Wednesday October 6, 2010

At
The Minneapolis Marriott
(Valet Parking Available)
11:00 AM

Comment on this post

PoliGraph: Clark one for three

Posted at 12:40 PM on September 17, 2010 by Catharine Richert (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph

DFL State Sen. Tarryl Clark's latest challenge to her opponent Rep. Michele Bachmann goes something like this: cut your salary and budget because I cut mine.

The challenge comes in a new Clark television ad and letter launched Sept. 15.

"When Minnesota faced a record budget deficit, I cut my legislative compensation and budget," Clark said in the ad.

In a separate letter to Bachmann on the same subject, Clark wrote, "You spend more taxpayer dollars on campaign-style mailings and radio ads than any Minnesota Member of Congress. You spend more taxpayer money on self-promoting media staff than on legislative staff."

Clark gets two of these three claims wrong.

The Evidence

"When Minnesota faced a record budget deficit, I cut my legislative compensation and budget."

In the 2007-2008 biennium, Clark made about $102,380, including base salary, a leadership bonus and per diem. This biennium, Clark trimmed her per diem spending by $13,316, or about 13 percent, for a total salary of $89,064. She also declined a communications budget, among other things.

"You spend more taxpayer dollars on campaign-style mailings and radio ads than any Minnesota Member of Congress."

Clark is talking about money Bachmann spends on constituent communications regarding congressional business - her "franking" privileges, which are paid for with public funds. This claim does not concern campaign mailers, which are covered by campaign coffers, not taxpayer dollars, though Clark's staff points out that some of Bachmann's fliers are fancy, full-color spreads that tout her accomplishments.

In late 2009, several articles were written about how much the delegation spends on mail after the U.S. House of Representatives published its first quarterly report on the subject. Indeed, between July 1, 2009 and Sept. 30, 2009, Bachmann spent more than any other member on franking expenses.

But there's more current data available. For the entire congressional session, which includes July 2009 through June 2010, Bachmann comes in fourth behind Reps. Erik Paulson, John Kline, and Tim Walz. During this period, Bachmann spent $171,521 of her more than $2 million budget on franking costs. Paulson, in comparison, spent $262,716 of his more than $2 million budget on constituent mail.

"You spend more taxpayer money on self-promoting media staff than on legislative staff."

Clark's also wrong that Bachmann spends more on her media staff than on her legislative staff. According to Legistorm, a website that tracks Hill staffer salaries on a quarterly basis, Bachmann has so far spent $184,989 on legislative staff this congressional session.

During the same period of time, she's spent only $174,551 on press staff. Narrowing the search to 2009 or the first two quarters of 2010, it's the same story: Bachmann spent more money on legislative staff than on press staff.

The Verdict

Clark has cut her own salary and budget. But the record shows that Bachman is not the biggest spender when it comes to mail. And she's never spent more on her media staff than on her legislative staff.

Sources

Tarryl Clark for Congress, "Challenge," accessed Sept. 16, 2010

Tarryl Clark for Congress, open letter to Rep. Michele Bachmann, accessed Sept. 16, 2010

"Challenge" Fact Sheet

Tarryl Clark for Congress, The Bachmann Agenda: Self-Promoting at Taxpayers, accessed Sept. 17, 2010

Minnesota Independent, Bachmann a member of House's million-franking club, by Chris Steller, Dec. 4, 2009

The Star Tribune, A look at the MN delegation's office expenditures, by Eric Roper, Dec. 1, 2009

The Congressional Research Office, Franking Privilege: Historical Development and Options for Change, Dec. 5, 2007

The U.S. House of Representatives, Statement of Disbursements: July 1, 2009-Dec. 31, 2009, accessed Sept. 16, 2010

The U.S. House of Representatives, Statement of Disbursements: January 1, 2010-June 30, 2010, accessed Sept. 16, 2010

The Minnesota House of Representatives, State Elected Officials' Compensation, accessed Sept. 17, 2010

Legistorm, Rep. Michele Bachmann, staff salaries, accessed Sept. 16, 2010

Rep. Michele Bachmann's legislative staff salaries, created Sept. 16, 2010

Rep. Michele Bachmann's press staff salaries, created Sept. 16, 2010

Interview, Carrie Lucking, spokeswoman, Tarryl Clark, Sept. 16, 2010

Interview, Senate Finance, Sept. 17, 2010

Comment on this post

Clinton raised money for Clark too

Posted at 2:01 PM on September 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

It appears that former President Bill Clinton was in Minnesota to raise money just for Mark Dayton's campaign for governor. Salon is reporting that Clinton held a fundraiser for Democrat Tarryl Clark's congressional campaign. The campaign did not tell reporters about the private fundraiser.

Clinton reportedly took aim at Clark's Republican opponent, GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann:

At a late-night fundraiser for state Sen. Tarryl Clark, Clinton described Bachmann as the epitome of a trend he regards as profoundly dangerous to the nation's future. "Your opponent," he told Clark, "is the ultimate example of putting ideology over evidence."

"I respect people with a conservative philosophy," he continued. "This country has been well-served by having two broad traditions within which people can operate. If you have a philosophy, it means you're generally inclined one way or the other but you're open to evidence. If you have an ideology, it means everything is determined by dogma and you're impervious to evidence. Evidence is irrelevant.

"That's how I see Rep. Bachmann. She's very attractive in saying all these things she says, but it's pretty stupid."

Bachman hits the silver screen

Posted at 12:57 PM on September 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann will be the subject of a new documentary. The 6th District Republican will be the focus of a documentary that examines three conservative Congresswoman from "the heartland." The film also focuses on a "reawakening of conservative women."

The documentary is produced by Citizens United, the group that won a U.S. Supreme Court challenge that allowed businesses to spend corporate money on politics (but not give to candidates directly).

Slate's David Wiegel says the film will be released next Wednesday.

Here's the trailer for the documentary.

NRCC putting Demmer's seat "in play."

Posted at 10:12 AM on September 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The National Republican Congressional Committee announced today that it's put Republican Randy Demmer in the top tier of "Young Gun status." Demmer is challenging DFL Rep. Tim Walz in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District.

"Randy Demmer has proven that he's ready to take on incumbent Tim Walz, an out-of-touch Democrat who has blindly supported his party's failed agenda of job-killing policies and reckless spending," said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX). "Randy's campaign is a symbol of the growing momentum behind Republican candidates in Minnesota and across the country. As Democrats and their party bosses continue to force their big-government, big-spending policies onto the backs of hard-working families, Republicans like Randy Demmer will continue to present a clear alternative to a Democrat majority that unapologetically spends too much, borrows too much and taxes too much."

Demmer's promotion to the top level of "Young Gun status" is a signal that the NRCC is keeping an eye on Minnesota's 1st. But it's not a solid guarantee that it will deliver national party money on Demmer's behalf. When asked to explain what this promotion meant in real terms, NRCC spokesman Tom Erickson replied:

"It's our policy not to comment on specific strategy, but it means that this seat is most certainly "in play" as voters in southern Minnesota have grow tired of Congressman Walz's support for a reckless agenda that has driven our economy off a cliff."

For a closer look at the race in Minnesota's 1st, check out this story from MPR's Mark Zdechlik.

Update: Here's a response from Walz campaign spokeswoman Sara Severs:

"Representative Demmer may be a "young gun", but he can't shoot straight. He's a typical, career politician whose record proves he has no new ideas, only the same failed policies of the past. There is a clear choice in this campaign and we're confident southern Minnesota voters will recognize his pitiful record for what it is."

Comment on this post

PoliGraph: Byberg right on Peterson's voting record

Posted at 12:00 PM on September 15, 2010 by Catharine Richert (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph

Seventh District congressman Collin Peterson is not your average Democrat.

The 10-term DFLer gets high marks from the National Rifle Association, plays guitar, and is more likely to be found in the halls of Congress wearing cowboy boots than Oxfords.

But a YouTube ad from Peterson's Republican opponent Lee Byberg seeks to puncture Peterson's reputation as a maverick.

"Collin Peterson knows that Minnesota's 7th District didn't support Barack Obama and his socialist agenda," states an ominous voiceover while a man lists Peterson's voting offenses on a white board. "This is why he's so careful to paint himself as a middle-of-the-road candidate... It's time to retire a lifetime politician who votes with Speaker Nancy Pelosi well over 90 percent of the time."

Byberg is correct that Peterson's recently been following the party line. But it hasn't always been that way.

The Evidence

This investigation will not rule on whether Obama has a socialist agenda, as the ad states; that's a matter of opinion. Instead, this PoliGraph test will focus on whether the ad gets Peterson's voting record right.

Generally speaking, Peterson's district is conservative. Voters there have supported Republicans in the last three presidential elections, although John McCain defeated Barack Obama by just three percentage points in the 7th in 2008.

Byberg's right that Peterson votes frequently with his party leaders. Of the 1,483 votes Peterson cast during this congressional session, he's voted with his party about 93.3 percent of the time, according to The Washington Post. That puts Peterson just above his party's average of 92.2 percent.

Peterson's so-called party unity score hasn't always been so high. During the 109th Congress, the last session before Democrats took over the House of Representatives, Peterson voted with his party only 78.7 percent of the time. Between 1995 and 1997, Peterson claimed a party unity score of 64 percent - the lowest of his career.

The Verdict

Byberg's claim is accurate: In the current session of Congress Peterson voted with his party more than 90 percent of the time.

Sources

Lee Byberg for Congress, Collin Peterson 101, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

Congressional Quarterly, Member Profile: Collin Peterson, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

The Washington Post, Votes Database: 111th Congress, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

The Washington Post, Votes Database: 109th Congress, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

The Washington Post, Votes Database: 104th Congress, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

The Wall Street Journal, In the House, It's Peterson vs. Climate Bill, by Steven Powers, June 22, 2010

Collin Peterson, Peterson Op-Ed: Amendments to Climate Change Bill Were Necessary, July 16, 2010

Congressional Quarterly, Partisanship and Presidential Support in the Bush Era, by John Cranford and Rachel Bloom, accessed Sept. 14, 2010

Comment on this post

Boehner promises Demmer a spot on the Ag Committee

Posted at 1:03 PM on September 14, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican House Minority Leader John Boehner of Ohio has promised 1st District Republican candidate Randy Demmer a spot on the House Agriculture Committee if Demmer defeats DFL Rep. Tim Walz. Boehner, who is likely to become Speaker if Republicans take the majority, made the announcement in a news release:

"Randy Demmer has my full support for a seat on the House Agriculture Committee. As a retired farmer, Randy understands the challenges facing farmers, ranchers, and rural communities," said House Republican Leader John Boehner. "He would be a strong advocate for solutions that address the issues facing agriculture communities, and I look forward to working with him, the Republican leadership, and the Members of the Steering Committee to place him on the House Agriculture Committee at the earliest possible opportunity"

The move won't mean a dramatic difference if Demmer defeats Walz since Walz currently sits on the House Ag Committee. The state's clout could diminish over ag policy, however, if the GOP takes control of the House (regardless of what happens in Minnesota's 1st). That's because DFL Rep. Collin Peterson currently chairs the House Ag Committee.

Update: Walz campaign spokeswoman Sara Severs issued this statement:

Farmers have a clear choice in southern Minnesota. They can choose Tim Walz and his hard work on the Agriculture Committee and the 2008 Farm Bill, or they can go with Representative Demmer and John Boehner's failed policies of the past. There's a reason why John Boehner's "Freedom to Farm" legislation is commonly referred to as the Freedom to Fail bill in Minnesota: because of its disastrous effect on Minnesota agriculture.

More ads in 1st District

Posted at 3:37 PM on September 13, 2010 by Mark Zdechlik (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. MN CD1, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Last week DFL Rep. Tim Walz rolled out his first TV ad of the 2010 election.

Today Rep. Randy Demmer, R-Hayfield, who's challenging Walz, unveiled 3 new radio spots. Two of Demmer's radio ads directly criticize Walz; one for supporting the health care overall and the other for expanding the scope and cost of government.

The Demmer campaign did not say how much its ad buy cost but says the ads will run for two weeks on radio stations throughout southern Minnesota.

The ads are audio only, but Demmer's campaign released them on You Tube.

Comment on this post

McCollum announces DFL rallies, third debate

Posted at 1:41 PM on September 10, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Congresswoman Betty McCollum says she will headline a series of town hall rallies aimed at energizing DFL voters.

McCollum announced the 4th District rallies today in a news release. The first event is scheduled at Macalester College Chapel on Monday, Sept. 13, starting at 5:30 p.m. Other rallies are scheduled on Sept. 18, at the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center in St. Paul, and on Sept. 25, at the Sheet Metal Workers Hall in Maplewood.

In addition, McCollum has agreed to participate in an MPR News-sponsored radio debate for sometime during the week of Sept. 21 Oct. 25. The exact date has not been determined. The White Bear Lake Chamber of Commerce and League of Women Voters of St. Paul are sponsoring two other 4th District congressional debates.

Yesterday, McCollum's Republican challenger Teresa Collett was criticizing the incumbent for declining to attend a KSTP-TV debate.

Comment on this post

Collett and McCollum camps trade barbs over debates

Posted at 4:58 PM on September 9, 2010 by Tom Scheck (34 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Teresa Collett is criticizing DFL Rep. Betty McCollum for declining to attend a KSTP-TV/League of Women Voters debate which was scheduled to be taped on September 19th. Collett called on McCollum to explain why she is declining to attend the debate.

"What does Betty McCollum have to hide from the voters besides her record", Collett asked in a news release.

McCollum's political director Will Blauvelt said the campaign declined to attend the debate because KSTP's owner, Stanley Hubbard, has given $2,000 to Collett's campaign.

"We don't do debates where the sponsoring organization has made political contributions to our opponents," Blauvelt said. "We've had the principle for three or four cycles now."

Blauvelt said the McCollum campaign would likely accept a debate request if another TV station offered it. He also said the McCollum campaign has accepted two other debate requests.

The first is scheduled at the White Bear Lake Chamber of Commerce on September 21st. The event will be at Jinny's Conference and Catering. Blauvelt said the other debate will be sponsored by the St. Paul League of Women Voters on October 21st.

Comment on this post

Ellison warns Muslims not to "take the bait"

Posted at 12:32 PM on September 9, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison spoke with MPR's Tom Crann this morning about the controversy over a Florida pastor who wants to hold a Quran book burning on the anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks.

Ellison, the first Muslim elected to Congress, says Muslims in this country and elsewhere shouldn't "take the bait." He's worried there will be violence that would just play into the stereotypes that led to the Quran burning in the first place.

Ellison also defended the pastor's right to burn the holy book. He said as a lawyer, an American and a Muslim he has to stand up for the guy's right to be incendiary, but that doesn't mean the guy's right.

You can listen to the full interview here: Listen

Update: AP is reporting that the pastor cancels plan to burn Qurans on Sept. 11, heeding to outcry.

Walz to air first TV ad of campaign

Posted at 5:05 PM on September 8, 2010 by Mark Zdechlik
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. MN CD1, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Tim Walz today unveiled the first TV ad of his 2010 re-election campaign.

Walz rolled out the ad at news conferences in Mankato and Rochester. The two-term incumbent's 30-second spot features a Vietnam veteran applauding Walz for his efforts to help veterans.

The Walz campaign said the ad would run in the 1st District, but wouldn't give details about how much the ad buy cost or how long the ad would run

Walz's Republican challenger, State Rep. Randy Demmer, is planning TV ads too, but Demmer's campaign would not say when its ads will be on the air.

Here's the Walz ad:

PoliGraph: Clark right on Bachmann bridge claim

Posted at 12:02 PM on September 3, 2010 by Catharine Richert (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph

DFLer Tarryl Clark frequently criticizes Michele Bachmann for neglecting the needs of the 6th District.

Case in point: In an Aug. 20, 2010, letter to her supporters, Clark pointed out that her Republican opponent failed to bring home money to help repair a local bridge.

"Despite this threat and the lessons that should have been learned from the I-35W Bridge collapse, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann refused to secure the funding needed to replace the Highway 23 bridge, a critical transportation artery in our community," Clark wrote.

Clark's claim is essentially correct. But there's a bit more to the story.

The Evidence

In 2007, after the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis collapsed, a flurry of bridge inspections occurred across the state.

To cover emergency repairs and other transportation projects, the Legislature overrode Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto of a massive transportation funding bill in late February of 2008. The measure included $600 million in bridge repairs.

On March 20, the DeSoto Bridge in St. Cloud - the bridge Clark is referring to - was shut down because of structural deficiencies.

The next day, Bachmann pledged to forgo earmarks, money that's set aside during the congressional appropriations process for local projects. And shortly thereafter, she told government and transportation officials that she would not renege on her promise. Instead, she said she would find other sources of funding to help rebuild the bridge.

While some area leaders expressed concern about Bachmann's "no earmarks" pledge, it appears that the Minnesota Department of Transportation wasn't so keen on federal help in the first place.

In an April 16, 2008, letter from Bachmann to Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Bachmann reiterated her resistance to earmarks for the project. But she wrote that during a conference call with the transportation department, one official "noted that [the department] does not want any congressional earmarks through the Fiscal Year 2009 federal appropriations process to finance replacement of the DeSoto Bridge. In fact, the official noted that the use of federal earmarked dollars would actually slow down the accelerated replacement plan for which our community is so desperate."

The next day, in an interview with the St. Cloud Times, transportation department spokeswoman Lucy Kender confirmed that waiting for federal funding would likely slow the rebuilding process.

Ultimately, the state relied on the transportation funding bill passed earlier in the year.

The Verdict

Though Clark glosses over the fact that the Legislature had already set aside funding for bridge repair projects, her claim is basically accurate.

Sources

Tarryl Clark for Congress, email to supporters, Aug. 20, 2010

The Minnesota Department of Transportation, Highway 23, St. Cloud, accessed Sept. 2, 2010

Minnesota Public Radio, St. Cloud dedicates new Granite City Crossing Bridge, by Ambar Espinoza, October 26, 2009

Minnesota Independent, Bachmann will forgo earmarks for Desoto bridge, by Andy Birkey, March 31, 2008

Website for Rep. Michele Bachmann, Bachmann Takes Pledge Against Pork, accessed Sept. 2, 2010

The Associated Press, Bachmann Defends 'No Earmarks' For Bridge, April 25, 2008

The St. Cloud Times, A vow for bridge funds, by Lawrence Schumacher, March 29, 2010 (subscription only)

The St. Cloud Times, MnDOT rules out earmarks, by Lawrence Schumacher, April 17, 2008 (subscription only)

The Minnesota Transportation Alliance, Minnesota's Transportation System: A Guide to the Essentials, 2008

Rep. Michele Bachmann, letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, April 18, 2010

Rep. Michele Bachmann, page one: letter to Gov. Tim Pawlenty, page two: letter to Gov. Tim Pawlenty, April 16, 2008

Interview, Carrie Lucking, spokeswoman, Tarryl Clark, Sept. 1, 2010

Interview, Margaret Donahoe, Executive Director, Minnesota Transportation Alliance, Sept. 2, 2010

More

The Humphrey Institute

Comment on this post

Clark hits the air

Posted at 6:25 AM on August 30, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The ad wars in Minnesota's 6th District have begun. Democrat Tarryl Clark is on the air with a so-called bio ad that describes her as family member, a youth minister, a daughter of a veteran and as someone "who met a payroll." It also discusses how she worked to cut her own expenses in office. You can watch the ad here.

The ad comes one week after GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann went on the air with her "Taxin' Tarryl" ads.

Bachmann hits the road

Posted at 1:13 PM on August 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is hitting the road this week on the first of a series of bus tours throughout Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District. On Wednesday and Thursday, Bachmann will make stops in Woodbury, Ham Lake, Forest Lake, Hugo, Stillwater, Anoka and St. Cloud. Bachmann is being challenged by Democrat Tarryl Clark.

Update: The Bachmann release says there will be a stop in Stillwater but it isn't on the schedule.

Here's the full schedule:

Wednesday
Dorothy Ann Bakery Wednesday,
8:45AM - 9:40AM
710 Commerce Dr., Suite 100, Woodbury, MN

Western Spring Manufacturing
10:30AM - 11:50AM
5118 130th St. N., Hugo, MN

Blue Heron Grille
12:00PM - 1:00PM
14725 Victor Hugo Blvd,
Hugo, MN

C&L Distributors
4:00PM - 5:00PM
1020 Industrial Drive South,
Sauk Rapids, MN

Bachmann for Congress Office Opening Wednesday
5:15PM - 6:30PM
138 Second Street South, Waite Park, MN

Thursday

Marshall Ready Mix Time: TBD
14141 Unity St. N.W., Ramsey, MN

Federal Ammunition Time: 10:30AM - 11:45AM
900 Bob Ehlen Dr., Anoka,

Update: Clark's campaign manager issued a statement criticizing Bachmann for visiting other states during the August recess but failing to hold a public meeting with her constituents.

Comment on this post

Minneapolitans supported Reed, not Clark or Bachmann

Posted at 11:29 AM on August 20, 2010 by Annie Baxter (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

U of M researcher Eric Ostermeier has crunched some numbers on the Congressional candidate who pulled in the most money in Minneapolis in the first 567 days of the election cycle.

It's not Keith Ellison, who represents Minneapolis as Congressman in the fifth district. Ellison was handily re-elected to his seat in 2008. Ostermeier suggests Minneapolis denizens may think he doesn't need their fundraising help, given his last big win.

Instead, Ostermeier notes that Minneapolitans are giving the most to the sixth district--but not to incumbent Congresswoman Michele Bachmann or her DFL opponent, State Senator Tarryl Clark.

Instead, Maureen Reed, who lost the DFL nomination to Clark and who dropped out of the race, pulled in the most fundraising dollars from Minneapolitans--about $200,000.

What does that mean? Maybe not that much. Keep in mind that that $200,000 is a drop in the bucket compared to what Bachmann and Clark have raised overall. And of course, it is just Minneapolis Ostermeier's talking about. But for stats lovers, it could be interesting.

I sent Reed's flak an email to ask what she's going to do with the money. Haven't heard back yet.

Comment on this post

The horse trading starts in Minnesota's 1st

Posted at 1:29 PM on August 18, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The candidates in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District are debating over debates.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz sent a letter to his opponents this morning requesting 3 debates be held between now and the November election. The Walz campaign also wants any candidate on the ballot to participate in the debate.

"Engaging in civil, lively debate is one of our democracy's greatest traditions," said Richard Carlbom, Tim Walz for U.S. Congress Campaign Manager. "We are looking forward to participating in these debates with Representative Demmer, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Johnson and to the opportunity to share with the voters of southern Minnesota a clear vision for our future."

In an e-mail to the respective campaigns of Representative Randy Demmer, Steve Wilson and Lars Johnson, Carlbom proposed three, ninety minute debates. One debate would be in Rochester on jobs and the economy. Another would be in Mankato on veterans and the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. The third would be a television debate at a to be determined location.

The request prompted a counter offer from Republican Randy Demmer's campaign manager, Jason Flohrs. He wants a total of eight more debates for a total of 11 debates.

Your proposal for three debates is a good start, though limiting a debate to one topic only does not offer voters adequate opportunity to learn more about our very different approaches to solving the problems facing our nation. Make no mistake, voters across this district want to hear answers regarding the lack of job creation, slowing economic recovery, and out-of-control deficit spending. To go to Mankato (as you suggest) and duck the concerns that voters have on those issues would be a disservice to those attending.

So, we're pleased to accept the three you've offered, plus five more across the First District in Rochester, Mankato, Worthington, Winona, and Owatonna. We would also request participation in the KSTP/League of Women Voters debate, a joint appearance on the Almanac public affairs program, and a joint appearance at the Rochester Chamber of Commerce debate - an event that Congressman Walz has participated in all his previous campaigns.

Let the horse trading begin!

Meffert wants stimulus targeted for schools

Posted at 11:05 AM on August 18, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Jim Meffert says he wants billions of dollars from the Federal Stimulus bill to be targeted to put solar panels on some of Minnesota's least energy efficient schools. Meffert says The Department of Energy has roughly $6 billion has more than $30 billion in federal funds that have not yet been allocated from the stimulus. He says he'd like to do energy audits of the nation's schools and use those funds to retrofit the schools. Meffert says the funds will help put Minnesotans to work to retrofit the schools.

"One of the problems that we've been seeing is that school districts have to hire a grant writer, they have to spend a lot of their time and their energy, which frankly they don't have, to develop a project. We've got something that we know will work. We can go find the schools that are least efficient and we can go help them."

Meffert says he thinks the funds could improve 110 schools in Minnesota. He's on a district wide jobs tour this week.

Meffert is running against GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District.

Side note: Meffert's Tuesday night town hall was canceled because he had a family emergency.

PoliGraph: Bachmann state aid claim fails the truth test

Posted at 11:45 AM on August 17, 2010 by Catharine Richert (23 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph, U.S. House

U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann had some choice words for a recently passed $26 billion bill meant to aid states hit hard by the economic downturn.

"Taxpayer money will essentially be laundered through the public employee unions, and spent to reelect those same Democrats this fall," Bachmann said on the Aug. 10 episode of FOX News's Freedom Watch with Judge Napolitano.

The next day, she clarified her point on another FOX News program, saying, "Quite literally what will happen is this money will be shifted over to public employee unions. The unions will skim off the top; they'll put a good portion of that into political action committees."

Bachmann's claim underscores an opinion held by other Republicans that the legislation is meant to win favor with teachers and other workers during an election year. Some have argued that, because the funding will be used to maintain worker salaries, a portion of that money could end up with unions in the form of dues.

Bachmann's claim implies that state aid will literally be used to pad Democrats' campaign-funding chests. But that's not true. The money will go to states, not unions.

The bill includes rules on how the money will be administered and what it can be used for.

The Evidence

The legislation includes $10 billion to prevent teacher layoffs and about $16 billion to help states maintain expanded Medicaid coverage that was established by the federal stimulus bill.

Bachmann is vague on which "public employee unions" she's talking about, and her office did not respond to inquiries for clarification. But it appears she's referring to teachers' unions. (The Medicaid component of the bill doesn't change how the federal government matches state funding for the program.)

The $10 billion in education funding will be administered by the Department of Education. It will allocate funding to states based total population and school age population. Then, states will distribute funds to schools based on formulas. The Minnesota Department of Education has not decided how it will allocate the funds, but it's important to note that the decision will be left up to state officials, not teachers' unions.

Furthermore, the bill expressly states that the education funding must "be used only for awards to local educational agencies for the support of elementary and secondary education... for the 2010-2011 school year." The legislation also states that the money can be used only to pay school employees who would otherwise be laid-off or to rehire employees. Moreover, the funding cannot be used to pay-off state debt or for "rainy-day" funds.

The Verdict

Bachmann is wrong to say that the state aid will be "laundered" through public employee unions and used to help reelect Democrats. In fact, the bill is clear that the money can only be used to keep teachers on the payroll.

Her claim does not pass the PoliGraph test.

SOURCES

FOX Business, Rep. Michele Bachmann on Freedom Watch with Judge Napolitano, Aug. 10, 2010
YouTube, Rep. Michele Bachmann on FOX News, Aug. 11, 2010
Reuters, House Passes State Aid Bill, by Lisa Lambert, Aug. 11, 2010
THOMAS, H.R. 1586, accessed Aug. 13, 2010
Summary, The Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act, accessed Aug. 13, 2010
Kaiser Family Foundation, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA): Medicaid and Health Care Provisions, accessed Aug. 16, 2010
Department of Education, Title I -- Improving The Academic Achievement Of The Disadvantaged, accessed Aug. 16, 2010
The Washington Post, Bachmann and Angle agree: State aid is "laundered" money for Dems, by Greg Sargent, Aug. 11, 2010
Interview, Christine Dufour, spokeswoman, Minnesota Department of Education, Aug. 16, 2010
Interview, Lonnie Hartley, spokesman, Education Minnesota, Aug. 16, 2010

More

University of Minnesota Humphrey Institute

Hear Poligraph reporter Catharine Richert's conversation with Tom Crann on MPR's All Things Considered:

Comment on this post

Bachmann and Clark donations from political elites

Posted at 4:34 PM on August 16, 2010 by Annie Baxter
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Eric Ostermeier, one of the sources in my story today about Rep. Michele Bachmann's and State Senator Tarryl Clark's fundraising, has analyzed how much of the two candidates' funding is coming from current or past politicians--what he calls "political elites."

Ostermeier says that while Bachmann is slightly outperforming Clark in donations from Minnesotans overall, Clark has an advantage in donations from political elites.

Politicians donating to Clark range from DFL gubernatorial candidate Mark Dayton to Edina Mayor James Hovland.

Ostermeier raises these questions:

Are political elites from the GOP not donating money to Bachmann because they know the well-funded incumbent does not need their donation, because they do not support her candidacy, or because they believe there is too great of a political risk in supporting such a controversial candidate?

Ostermeier also notes that Bachmann may be happy not to get donations from political types, insofar as she has "prided herself on not being an establishment candidate."

Speaking of Bachmann's fundraising...the official documents she filed in July showed that she had pulled in more than $4 million by that point. Campaign manager Gina Countryman says that number is now closer to $6 million. Clark's campaign declined to specify how much more money they've pulled in since their July filing, at which point they said they had about $2.4 million.

Meffert to host town hall forum outside of his district

Posted at 3:06 PM on August 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The DFL candidates running in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District has scheduled a town hall form on creating jobs in Minnesota. Jim Meffert scheduled tomorrow night's event for 6pm at the Teamsters Local 120 buidling in Blaine.

There's just one problem.

Meffert's town hall won't be in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District but in Minnesota's 6th District. Meffert's campaign spokeswoman, Kate Monson, said the event will be held in Blaine but it's right on the edge of the 3rd and 6th District lines. She said it's also being held at the aTeamsters building, a major supporter of Meffert.

"We just wanted to make sure we were concentrating on the northern part of our district for this event," Monson said.

She also said Meffert will conduct a district wide jobs tour throughout the week. Meffert is running against GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen.

3rd District Congressional watchers should also mark their calendars for September 25th. Monson said KSTP-TV and the League of Women Voters have scheduled a 3rd District debate for that night.

Comment on this post

Boehner to campaign for Demmer

Posted at 3:00 PM on August 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican House Minority Leader John Boehner will be in Minnesota on August 30th to campaign for Randy Demmer, a Republican running for Congress in Minnesota's 1st District. Demmer's campaign manager Jason Flohrs said Boehner will hold at least a fundraiser and a possible public event for Demmer.

"We always thought that we had a good chance of winning this seat back," Flohrs said. "To have some national recognition of that is just great."

Demmer is challenging DFL Rep. Tim Walz in Minnesota's 1st District. The two have been campaigning aggressively in one of the more competitive congressional races in Minnesota this year.

Update: I'm addiing comments from Walz' campaign.

"It's a baliout of a failing campaign," Walz campaign manager Richard Carlbom said. "Demmer has struggled to get his campaign going. It's a bailout to save what remnants of a campaign Demmer has left."

Comment on this post

Clark suggests Bachmann has an eye on White House

Posted at 12:40 PM on August 5, 2010 by Tom Scheck (8 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Tarryl Clark's campaign for Congress sent out a fundraising e-mail to supporters today suggesting that Bachmann is considering a run for the White House in 2012. Clark's campaign manager Zach Radvold suggested Bachmann may be a 2012 contender as a way to raise money for her campaign.

Michele Bachmann could be a presidential candidate in 2012.

Will you help us put a stop to her blind ambition by donating today?

Bachmann said she would run for president if she felt called to it, and said in another interview that it's not what she's doing "right now" - leaving the door wide open. She remarked recently to FOX News that her supporters want her to run for president. And Bachmann's multiple trips to Iowa prompted Politico to report:

"Bachmann has been receiving a little attention in conservative circles as a potential presidential candidate in 2012. And like so many other Republicans seeking a national profile, an early trip to Iowa, with its first-in-the-nation caucus, provides an opportunity to test-drive her presidential appeal."

There's no doubt that Bachmann has been working diligently to raise her national profile, recently appointing herself the head of the Tea Party in Congress and forming a national fundraising PAC to help right-wing candidates around the country. And in the past few weeks alone, Bachmann has popped up in Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Nevada.

Michele Bachmann is clearly not interested in the job she's already been elected to do...

Clark's campaign has been working furiously to show Bachmann is out of touch with Minnesota and is more interested in building her national profile. This fundraising letter is another attempt to drive that home.

Bachmann's campaign manager didn't yet respond to questions on the Clark campaign's e-mail. I'll post one if/when she responds.

Andy Parrish, Senior Adviser to Congresswoman Michele Bachmann issued this statement in response to the e-mail:

No one in Congress works as hard for their constituents as Michele Bachmann does and the people of the 6th district know it.

This is just another shameful attack on Michele.

This last year Michele Bachmann had two parents die, one of pancreatic cancer and one of alzheimer's and Tarryl Clark's shameful response was to viciously lash at Michele for missing votes while Michele was literally holding her stepmother's hand at her bedside as she passed away.

Recently, Michele was admitted to the hospital; a normal response would be of concern for the Congresswoman, but Tarryl's response again is to attack her and try to use it to raise money, Tarryl Clark is shameful.

Comment on this post

Students worried about turnout in Primary election

Posted at 12:38 PM on August 5, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Several members of the Minnesota Public Interest Research Group held a news conference at the State Capitol today to call for the state of Minnesota to change the state's primary date to May or June. The students argued that an August Primary makes things harder for college students to vote. In particular, students who are registered to vote in Minnesota but live in another state during the summer break may have some difficulty voting absentee.

Carleton College student Ben Hellerstein says he asked the Carlton College Dean of Students, Rice County Election officials and the Secretary of State's office couldn't tell him how a student is supposed to fill out the address on their absentee ballot. He said many students live in different residences in the Spring and Fall semester. Hellerstein says he lives at Carleton during the summer but says it's been unclear how he should advise other students.

"In my experience in just educating students as to how they can participate is practically impossible," Hellerstein said. "It's hard for me to imagine that turnout in an August primary when people are off campus and when there hasn't been a clear source of information about how people can participate, can be anywhere near as high as participation in previous years."

This is the first year that Minnesota's primary has been moved to August. It's been a source of frustration for the campaigns and political parties. As MPR's Tim Pugmire points out, turnout is expected to be low.

An official with the Minnesota Secretary of State's office was unavailable to comment. I'll post his response when it's available. John Aiken, spokesman for Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, says students who don't have an established residency at the time of the primary won't be able to vote on August 10th.

FarmFest audio

Posted at 9:27 PM on August 4, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

I finally uploaded the audio from the two candidate forums at FarmFest.

Don't feel like being stuck to the computer? That's ok. MPR's Midday will also air the gubernatorial forum Thursday at noon.

The gubernatorial forum featured (from left to right on your radio dial):

Democrat Mark Dayton
Democrat Margaret Anderson Kelliher
Independence Party candidate Tom Horner
Republican Tom Emmer
Democrat Matt Entenza
Independence Party candidate Rob Hahn

You can listen to the forum here:
Listen

Listen

Listen

Listen

The congressional forum featured (from left to right on your radio dial):

From Minnesota's 7th Congressional District:
DFL Rep. Collin Peterson
Republican Lee Byberg
Republican Alan Roebke
Indepencence Party candidate Glen Menze

From Minnesota's 1st Congressional District:
DFL Rep. Tim Walz
Republican Randy Demmer
Independence Party candidate Steven Wilson

From Minnesota's 6th Congressional District:
Democrat Tarryl Clark

From Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District:
Democrat Shelley Madore

You can listen to the forum here:
Listen

Listen

Comment on this post

Walz and Demmer trade attacks, Peterson vows flat Ag budget

Posted at 3:10 PM on August 3, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Today's FarmFest forum near Redwood Falls featured the candidates for Congress. The most heated exchanges came between DFL Rep. Tim Walz and his Republican challenger Randy Demmer. Demmer attacked Walz for his vote on climate changing legislation, calling it "cap and tax." He received applause after saying the legislation would make it more expensive on businesses and farmers. Demmer said after the forum that Walz says one thing to his constituents but does another when he's in Washington D.C.

"He votes for all of the appropriations bills and all of the spending to do it," Demmer said. He supported the stimulus, he supported the cap and trade bill. He supported the takeover of the health care bill. All of those things add costs."

Walz countered that he backed the legislation because he's looking for ways to make the country less dependent on foreign countries for energy. Walz said Demmer is surrounding himself with special interests like Vin Weber. He said people should consider how Demmer might vote on issues like energy.

"The person advising my opponent is the lobbyist for Exxon/Mobil. I can't stress that enough," Walz said. "That's fine but that's going to be your perspective. I'm being advised by these folks (people are FarmFest)."

While Demmer and Walz were taking aim at each other, DFL Rep. Collin Peterson was taking aim at his colleagues in Washington D.C. Peterson, who chairs the House Agricultural Committee, said he intends to not add any more money to next year's Farm Bill. He said he hopes other members of Congress are as fiscally disciplined.

Peterson also criticized the Environmental Protection Agency for being too aggressive on issues that impact farmers.

"The EPA is out of control," Peterson said. "I'd like to cut their budget in half if I could."

Peterson also said there's "good and bad" in the recently passed health care overhaul bill. He voted against because he believed it spent too much money. One of his Republican opponents, Lee Byberg, said the entire bill should be replaced. He said Peterson needs to take a stronger stand against the bill.

"In the beginning, he was against it, now he is stating that he's not going to work to replace it," Byberg said. "I think we have to replace it to remain competitive and produce good health care for the future."

FarmFest invited the candidates in Minnesota's 1st, 2nd, 6th and 7th Districts to attend the forum. Republican incumbents Michele Bachmann and John Kline both declined to attend.

I'll post the full audio of the forum later tonight.

FarmFest is scheduled to feature six of the candidates for governor on Wednesday. Democrats Margaret Anderson Kelliher, Mark Dayton and Matt Entenza will take the stage with Republican Tom Emmer and Independence Party candidates Tom Horner and Rob Hahn.

Rangel gave to Democrats in Minnesota

Posted at 10:45 AM on July 30, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

New York Congressman Charlie Rangel, who faces an ethics trial in the coming months, has given $92 thousand to Minnesota Democrats through his campaign for Congress or his National Leadership PAC since 2000.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz received $21,000 from Rangel's campaign and PAC in 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Richard Carlbom, with Walz for Congress, says Walz gave the $21,000 to several Minnesota based veterans charities earlier this year.

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison received $7,000 in 2006 from Rangel's leadership PAC.

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum received $5,000 in 2000 from Rangel's leadership PAC. Update: McCollum's political director, Will Blauvelt sent along this statement:

"Rep. McCollum has received no contribution from Mr. Rangel's political committees since serving in Congress. Campaign contributions received a decade ago were spent during the 2000 election."

DFL Sen. Al Franken received $10,000 from Rangel's leadership PAC. Update: Casey Aden-Wansbury, A spokeswoman for Sen. Franken, issued this statement:

"All donations made during the 2008 campaign cycle were spent in that cycle. Going forward, Senator Franken will not take money from Mr. Rangel or anyone else who is the subject of an Ethics Committee trial."

DFLer Ashwin Madia, who lost to Republican Erik Paulsen in 2008, received $49,538 from three different funds tied to Rangel.

Madia's campaign fund is now closed.

I contacted officials representing Ellison, McCollum and Franken to see if they plan to do anything with the money but haven't yet received a response.

Comment on this post

Paulsen to hold town hall forum on August 2nd

Posted at 3:20 PM on July 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen announced in an e-mail update to supporters that he'll be hosting a town hall meeting at Southview Middle School in Edina on Monday, August 2nd. Paulsen says he'll provide an update on recent legislation in Congress and will share his initiatives.

The event starts at 7pm.

Pawlenty backs the rest of the bunch

Posted at 10:12 AM on July 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

MN Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced today that his federal political action committee will back every one of the Republicans running for Congress in Minnesota. Pawlenty has already given the maximum contribution of $2,000 each to GOP Reps. John Kline, Erik Paulsen and Michele Bachmann and 1st District candidate Randy Demmer.

Today, Pawlenty's Freedom First PAC will also contribute $2,000 to the other GOP contenders. The contributions will go to Teresa Collett (4th District), District, Joel Demos (5th District), Lee Byberg (7th District) and Chip Cravaack (8th District).

None of the candidates are seen to mount a significant challenge to the DFL incumbents at this point but the contribution is a signal that Pawlenty is committed to electing Republicans in Minnesota.

He's traveled across the country to help elect candidates on the state and national level. His next trip is to Iowa next week.

Delegation splits vote on supplemental war funding

Posted at 10:19 PM on July 27, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

The U.S. House has passed a supplemental war funding bill tonight.

Minnesota's Congressional delegation split their support for the bill.

Democrats Tim Walz and Collin Peterson joined Republicans John Kline, Erik Paulsen and Michele Bachmann in support of the measure.

Democrats Betty McCollum, Keith Ellison and Jim Oberstar voted against it.

McCollum issues a statement on why she voted against the measure:

"Congress has a responsibility to ensure the economic security of the American people, as well as defend the national security of the nation. This appropriations bill does not adequately meet the needs of the American people, and I will not vote to pass it.

"To my great dismay the funds previously passed by the House to address urgent domestic needs such as securing our borders, preventing 100,000 teachers from layoffs, creating youth summer jobs, and financing Pell grants for higher education have been stripped from this bill by the U.S. Senate.

"After nine years of war and more than $300 billion of war funds added to our national debt, it is clear that an open ended U.S. military presence in Afghanistan is not acceptable to Afghans or Americans. I believe now is the time for a movement away from an expanded military presence in Afghanistan towards a strategic drawdown of U.S. troops and a refocus on a counter-terrorism strategy to prevent al-Qaeda from again taking root.

"U.S. troops deserve a mission that is clear and achievable so they can return safely home with the knowledge that they have helped to keep America secure and allowed the Afghan people to make their own future. It is now time for the Afghan people to make that future."

The 6th District candidates are shaking the money trees

Posted at 11:37 AM on July 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Washington Post took a look at the fundraising in the race for control of Congress. The report says GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann was the top fundraiser in the U.S. House in the 2nd Quarter. It also says Bachmann's DFL opponent, Tarryl Clark, raised the highest total among Democrats during the same time period.

Bachmann starts a Capitol Hill Tea Party

Posted at 9:16 PM on July 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck (5 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann announced today that she's filed the paperwork to create a "House Tea Party Caucus." In a written statement, Bachmann said the group intends to promote fiscal responsibility, limited government and "adherence to the Constitution."

"The American people are speaking out loud and clear. They have had enough of the spending, the bureaucracy, and the government knows best mentality running rampant today throughout the halls of Congress. This caucus will espouse the timeless principles of our founding, principles that all Members of Congress have sworn to uphold," Bachmann stated. "The American people are doing their part and making their voices heard and this caucus will prove that there are some here in Washington willing to listen."

Bachmann isn't the only one suggesting a Tea Party Caucus on Capitol Hill. Kentucky Republican Rand Paul, who is running for the U.S. Senate, told the National Review that he would like to form a Tea Party Caucus with South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint and Oklahoma Sen. Tom Coburn.

Comment on this post

Meffert trails Paulsen in money chase

Posted at 9:30 AM on July 15, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL 3rd District congressional candidate Jim Meffert is reporting that he raised $98,113 in the second quarter of 2010.

Meffert's total for the cycle $215,418. That's well behind incumbent Republican Congressman Erik Paulsen, who raised a total of $1.9 million. Paulsen's second quarter take was
$379,862.

Meffert's campaign spokeswoman said his second quarter fundraising was hurt by the lack of a primary opponent. She said supportive donors and PACs are busy defending embattled primary candidates.

Paulsen raised $380k in 2nd Qtr

Posted at 1:01 PM on July 14, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen announced that he raised $379,862 during the second quarter of 2010. His campaign reports that the 3rd District Congressman has $1.3 million in the bank and raised $1.9 million during the 2010 cycle.

Paulsen is running against DFLer Jim Meffert. Meffert's spokeswoman says he'll release the figures tomorrow.

PoliGraph: Bachmann right on where BP buck stops

Posted at 11:43 AM on July 14, 2010 by Catharine Richert (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph

Rep. Michele Bachmann has criticized President Barack Obama for the way he's handled the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Recently, she pointed out that BP's Deepwater Horizon drilling project was actually approved by Obama's administration.

"Remember, this was under Obama's Minerals and Management Service bureau with his appointed chief of MMS who actually issued the permits and wrote all the approvals for exactly what BP did," she told WCCO reporter Pat Kessler in a June 16, 2010, interview. "This happened under President Obama's watch."

Bachmann is correct: The Obama administration gave BP the green light to start drilling.

The Evidence

The story of the Deepwater Horizon spill starts in 2008, when the Bush administration leased new drilling tracts in the Gulf of Mexico to several oil companies, including BP.

The following year, BP submitted an exploration plan to the Minerals Management Service (MMS), the arm of the Interior Department that oversees drilling. It stated that the company could, in the event of an oil spill, "respond, to the maximum extent practicable, to a worst-case discharge, or a substantial threat of such a discharge."

MMS then had 30 days to review the plan. During this time, MMS could have asked BP to do an extensive environmental impact review - it's technically required for some drilling projects - but the department gave BP a waiver instead.

In fact, such exemptions are common; according to an Interior Department spokesman speaking with the Washington Post, MMS issues between 250 and 400 annually for projects in the Gulf.

On April 6, 2009, MMS approved the plan.

The Verdict

The leasing process may have started under the previous administration, but it was Obama's officials who give the project a stamp of approval.

Bachmann's claim is accurate.

Sources

WCCO, interview with Rep. Michele Bachmann, June 16, 2010

The Minerals Management Service, Central Gulf of Mexico Sale 206 Nets $ 3.67 Billion in High Bids, August 4, 2008

BP, Initial Exploration Plan Mississippi Canyon Block 252, accessed June 30, 2010

The White House, Remarks by the President on the Gulf Oil Spill, May 27, 2010

The Washington Post, U.S. exempted BP's Gulf of Mexico drilling from environmental impact study, by Juliet Eilperin, May 5, 2010

The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, accessed June 30, 2010

The Department of the Interior, Salazar Launches Safety and Environmental Protection Reforms to Toughen Oversight of Offshore Oil and Gas Operations, May 11, 2010

Interview, Richard Charter, Senior Policy Advisor, Defenders of Wildlife, June 30, 2010

Interview, Rachel Horn, spokeswoman, Rep. Michele Bachmann, June 30, 2010

Interview, Kendra Barkoff, spokeswoman, the Department of the Interior, June 30, 2010

More

The Humphrey Institute

Note

Next week PoliGraph will start to appear more frequently and will focus on the DFL candidates for governor as the August 10 primary election approaches.

Comment on this post

Bachmann shakes up staff, again

Posted at 3:21 PM on July 13, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann is making key staff changes in her congressional office and her campaign team.

Politico is reporting that the shakeup claimed chief of staff Ron Carey, the former chairman of the Minnesota Republican Party, and campaign finance director Zandra Walcott. Carey was Bachmann's fifth chief of staff in just four years.

Bachmann press secretary Rachel Horn issued this statement about Carey:

"Congresswoman Michele Bachman thanks Ron Carey for his service to her and to the district and wishes him the best for his future. Effective August 1st, she also welcomes Andy Parrish back as a Senior Advisor to the Congressional office and expects a smooth transition that will continue to put the needs and priorities of the 6th Congressional District first."

There was also a statement from campaign manager Gina Countryman regarding Wolcott:

"Congresswoman Bachmann thanks Zandra for all of her service and looks forward to opportunities to work with her again in the future."

Comment on this post

Clark starts spending while Bachmann sits on millions

Posted at 6:15 PM on July 12, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The campaign fundraising in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District signals that it could be the most expensive Congressional race in Minnesota history. Both GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann and Democrat Tarryl Clark are raising millions and a large part of those funds are expected to end up on TV.

Side note: KSTP/Survey USA just released a poll showing Bachmann ahead of Clark by nine percentage points.

Clark started running ads in late June criticizing GOP rival over comments on the BP oil spill. Clark bought $127,820 worth of ads at WCCO, KARE, KMSP and WFTC between June 19th and July 9th (I forgot to check the size of the Clark buy at KSTP but she also bought time there).

While Clark is ramping up her TV face time, Bachmann is waiting to spend her campaign cash. Bachmann, who raised $4.1 million for the campaign, hasn't bought time at any of the stations.

Here's the breakdown of Clark's buy:

WCCO
6/19 - 7/11
$54,020

KARE
6/28-7/9
$52,660

WFTC
6/28-7/9
$12,840

KMSP
6/28 - 7/9
$8200

Comment on this post

Bachmann's campaign total up to $4.1 million

Posted at 12:04 PM on July 7, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann has raised $4.1 million so far for her 6th district re-election campaign.

Bachman sent out a news release today showing a second quarter fundraising total $1.7 million. There were 28,000 contributors. The release did not say how much Bachmann has spent or how much is still in the bank.

The campaign will file its final figures by the July 15 deadline.

Comment on this post

Clark hits $2 million mark in 6th district race

Posted at 9:17 AM on July 7, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL congressional candidate Tarry Clark has raised more than $2 million in her bid to unseat incumbent Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann in the 6th district.

Clark's campaign announced the financial milestone in a news release today. Her second quarter total was $910,000. It did not say how much of the $2 million Clark has already spent. Bachmann has not yet released her financial information for the second quarter.

PoliGraph: Clark correct on foreclosures, wrong on unemployment

Posted at 10:56 AM on June 30, 2010 by Catharine Richert (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, PoliGraph

State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, says incumbent Congresswoman Michele Bachmann is spending too much time traveling the nation, and should stick closer to home because her district's economy is suffering.

"We have the highest unemployment, highest foreclosure rate in the state," Clark said on the June 21, 2010, episode of Hardball with Chris Matthews. "All the while she's seeking celebrity status, and off following her own agenda instead of fighting for people of the sixth district."

It's become one of Clark's key talking points against Bachmann, and she repeats it often.

While Clark correctly points out that the 6th District has the highest foreclosure rate in the state, her claim that it also has the highest unemployment rate is wrong.

The Evidence

Calculating foreclosure and unemployment rates by congressional district is tricky because district borders do not always fall on county lines, and Minnesota determines the rates by county. The 6th District includes Benton, Sherburne, and Wright counties, half of Stearns County and most of Anoka and Washington counties.

Including all of Stearns County, the 6th District has a foreclosure rate of 1.76 percent, according to HousingLink, a Minneapolis-based organization that regularly crunches the state's foreclosure numbers.

The district's actual foreclosure rate likely is somewhat less given that half of Stearns County is in the 7th District. Nevertheless, by this measure, Bachmann's territory comes out on top.

At most, the 6th District's unemployment rate is 6.76 percent. That's far less than the 8.25 percent average unemployment rate for the 8th congressional district. In fact, since Clark declared her intention to run against Bachmann in July of 2009, the 6th District has never had the highest unemployment rate in the state.

Clark is actually referring to Workforce Service Area 5, one of 18 workforce training areas designated by the state, said Clark spokeswoman Carrie Lucking. But there's a problem with that explanation: Only two of the 11 counties in this area are in the 6th District, so most of the territory is out of Bachmann's control.

The Verdict

Clark's claim that Bachmann's territory has the highest foreclosure rate in the state is correct.

However, her claim that Bachmann's district has the highest unemployment rate is wrong. Even if Clark is referring to Workforce Service Area 5, it only contains two of the 6th District's counties, so that's not a fair comparison.

As a result of PoliGraph's analysis, Clark's campaign will begin saying that the 6th District has some of the highest employment rates in the state, Lucking said.

SOURCES:

Minnesota Public Radio News, Clark sets full attention on unseating Bachmann, by Mark Zdechlik, June 9, 2010

Hardball with Chris Matthews, June 21, 2010

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, unemployment rates for counties in the 6th Congressional district, accessed June 23, 2010

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, unemployment rates for counties in the 8th Congressional district, accessed June 23, 2010

HousingLink.org, Foreclosures in Minnesota: A Report Based on County Sheriff's Sale Data, Feb. 2010, accessed June 23, 2010

Minnesota Independent, Bachmann's district continues to lead state in foreclosures, By Andy Birkey, Dec. 1, 2009

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, profile of Work Service Area 5, accessed June 23, 2010

Interview, Carrie Lucking, spokeswoman for Tarryl Clark, June 23, 2010

More

The Humphrey Institute

About PoliGraph

Comment on this post

Peterson on Wall St. reform

Posted at 5:12 PM on June 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

MPR's Tom Crann talked Friday with DFL Rep. Collin Peterson on a bill that would overhaul the nation's financial industry. The House and Senate cut a deal on the bill early Friday morning. Leaders in bodies are hoping to push the bill through Congress this week

Here's the interview with Peterson: Listen

Pelosi coming to Minnesota

Posted at 12:57 PM on June 25, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi will be in Minnesota on Saturday to tour of the St. Paul Union Depot. She'll tour the area with DFL Reps. Betty McCollum, Keith Ellison and Jim Oberstar. The project was funded by $35 million in federal stimulus money.

A news release sent by McCollum's office says the Union Depot will service Amtrak, local and interstate buses (2012), and the Central Corridor (2014). This project will also accommodate future intercity, commuter, and high speed rail services to Chicago.

Comment on this post

McCollum wants Commission investigating BP spill to have subpoena power

Posted at 3:20 PM on June 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum announced today that she signed on to a piece of legislation that would give an independent group investigating the BP oil spill subpoena power. McCollum and 23 other Members of Congress want the "National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling" to help with the investigation.

"The National Commission needs to hold BP and all responsible parties accountable," McCollum said in a news release. "Granting the Commission the power to subpoena will allow a more thorough and transparent investigation into this disaster."

The group is expected to hold public hearings soon.

MN reaction to McChrystal firing

Posted at 2:05 PM on June 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

MPR News asked the members of Minnesota's Congressional delegation and Governor Pawlenty for a reaction to President Obama's decision to accept General Stanely McChrystal's resignation as the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan and replace him with General Petraeus. I'll post the statements as they come in.

DFL Sen. Al Franken:

"I fully support the President's decision. He clearly decided that General McChrystal could not continue in his position after what he did. And that's entirely appropriate. I have a lot of confidence in General Petraeus' leadership and I appreciate his willingness to take on the difficult task of carrying out our strategy in Afghanistan."

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann:

"We owe General McChrystal a deep debt of gratitude for his years of brave and faithful service to his country. Going forward, it's imperative that we keep the safety and security of our country at the forefront of our nation's priorities. I'm confident that once the Senate confirms the command of General David Petraeus, we will stay focused in our war against terrorism."

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison:

I support President Obama's decision to replace General McChrystal.

However, my primary concern remains the fate of our men and women in uniform serving in Afghanistan. Our main objective must be the safety and security of the United States, effectively fighting terrorism, and ensuring and the humanitarian and security needs of the people of Afghanistan.

I have long argued that in order to achieve peace and security in the region, we must have a civilian surge coupled with transitioning our troops out of combat missions and readying them for redeployment.

I continue to call on President Obama and General Petraeus to increase public diplomacy to ensure long term stability, and to bring our troops home from this near decade long conflict.

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar:

"I support the President's decision. As the President noted, General McChrystal has served our country bravely and honorably, but the comments in the article crossed the line. General McChrystal was right to submit his resignation, and the President did the right thing in accepting it. I am pleased that General Petraeus has accepted this difficult assignment."

GOP Rep. John Kline:

"When I visited Afghanistan less than a month ago, I met with military leaders, civilian officials, and U.S. troops currently serving in the area. We are engaged in a critical fight against Islamist extremists, and our goal in Afghanistan remains the same - a stable country that denies the Taliban and al-Qaeda a safe haven from which to launch attacks against Afghanistan, Pakistan, or the U.S. and its allies.

"As a fellow veteran, I thank General McChrystal for his decades of decorated service and honor him for answering the call to serve in Afghanistan and around the world.

"Moving forward, I am confident General David Petraeus has proven his leadership in Iraq and is extremely well qualified for this job."

DFL Rep. Tim Walz:
Note: Walz discussed the situation before Obama's decision on Midday.

"I respect our commander-in-chief's decision, and I have full confidence in General Petraeus' ability to transition into his role smoothly and effectively. We all need to work together to ensure that our strategy is successful, and I will continue to ask the tough questions of the President and his team. Our focus now has to be making sure the brave men and women who are serving our country in harm's way have a clear mission, the support, and the leadership they need to get the job done."

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar:

"As Commander and Chief of our armed forces the President must have complete confidence in the generals who report to him. I support President Obama's decision to appoint a general who can develop and implement a successful strategy in Afghanistan, without getting distracted by the politics and personalities of Washington DC."

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen:

"Changing military commanders during a time of war is a decision that should never be taken lightly. And while the recent events that led to this decision are certainly regrettable, I have absolute confidence that General Petraeus is the right choice to lead our brave servicemen and women in Afghanistan.

The nomination of Gen. Petraeus will no doubt build on the good work that has already been done in the region."

A spokesman for Governor Pawlenty's PAC declined comment.

A spokeswoman for DFL Rep. Betty McCollum declined comment.

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum:

"I support President Obama's decision. General Petraeus is an extremely capable military leader. I have full confidence in his ability to execute the President's strategy in Afghanistan."

Comment on this post

Walz on Midday

Posted at 9:06 AM on June 23, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Tim Walz will be on MPR's Midday at 11 am.

Clark to hit Bachmann on BP

Posted at 3:30 PM on June 18, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Tarryl Clark's campaign for Congress announced today that it will start running a TV ad criticizing GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann for her comments on BP. The Clark campaign started fundraising to run the ad earlier today and announced this afternoon that the ad will start running Sunday night on WCCO-TV.

Bachmann told the St. Paul Pioneer Press that BP should be held responsible for the disaster.

"There are people right now whose lives are on the line because their businesses are tanking," she told the newspaper.

Bachmann also said her real concern is the $20 billion fund would be used for other purposes than the oil spill.

This is Clark's first ad in the campaign for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. Bachmann hasn't run any TV ads but ran radio ads criticizing Clark's vote on a bill that increased taxes.

Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Tony Sutton issued as statement defending Bachmann from what he termed a "dishonest attack ad."

"Michele Bachmann has consistently stated that those responsible should and will pay for the cleanup of the Gulf," Sutton wrote.

UPDATE

Bachmann released her own statement:

"The claims made about my statements are false. In each of the interviews I have given, I have stated that BP is liable to fully compensate victims for the damage they have inflicted on the Gulf Coast with this tragic accident. It's important to make the victims whole, and the American taxpayer should not pay one dime for the mess created by this spill. My opponents are demonstrating with this first ad they are scraping the bottom of the barrel with distorting my views on this tragedy that's been foisted upon so many innocent Americans, marine life and wildlife in the Gulf Coast region. Making false claims and distortions about my statements is indicative of a negative campaign style, and Minnesotans deserve better."

Comment on this post

Franken goes after direction of the Supreme Court

Posted at 12:09 PM on June 18, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. Senate

DFL Sen. Al Franken used a speech to the liberal leaning American Constitution Society to criticize the direction of the U.S. Supreme Court. Franken, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the court is "pro-business". In particular, Franken was highly critical of the court's decision on the Citizen's United case. The ruling allowed corporations to spend freely on political ads and campaign literature to influence elections:

"Most Americans are familiar with cases in which the Court has had to balance individual rights against some compelling state interest.

It's easy to feel disconnected from these cases. Even though the government has awesome power - enough to take away your freedom, or even your life - the degree to which that power is deemed to supersede your individual rights doesn't really enter into the daily lives of most Americans.

But there's more than one kind of power.

If you have a credit card, if you watch TV, if you file insurance claims, if you work - in other words, if you participate in American daily life at all - then you interact with corporations that are more powerful than you are.

The degree to which those corporations' rights are protected over yours, well, that's extremely relevant to your life.

And in case after case after case, the Roberts Court has put not just a thumb, but a fist, on the scale in favor of those corporations.

A fist with brass knuckles. Which weigh a lot. Because they're brass.

It's important to recognize that, for some conservative legal activists, this is the whole point. Do they want to undercut abortion and immigration and Miranda rights? Sure. But those are just cherries on the sundae.

What conservative legal activists are really interested in is this question: What individual rights are so basic and so important that they should be protected above a corporation's right to profit? And their preferred answer is: None of them. Zero."

A spokeswoman for Franken said Franken used his speech to outline some of his thoughts as the hearings for President Obama's Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan.

You can watch the speech here or listen to it here.

Bachmann raises money off of nasty posters

Posted at 9:21 AM on June 18, 2010 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's campaign for Congress is raising money off of a poster that surfaced in the Twin Cities that is, shall we say, highly critical of her.

Bachmann's husband, Marcus, sent out the e-mail criticizing the posters:

"I write to you today as an outraged husband. My wife Michele Bachmann is under attack in the most vulgar and disgusting terms.

Just this week, all around the Minneapolis-St Paul area, posters started popping up for a concert titled "F*** Michele Bachmann." This was a juvenile and immature act by those unwilling to have a dignified debate, but it doesn't stop there!

Previously, Playboy magazine published an explicit, sexually violent article about what the author would like to do to several high-profile conservative women, including Michele. The article was so repulsive and created such an outcry, even Playboy had to blush as they pulled the article...

...You and I both know they are resorting to these vulgar attacks because they know their time is up - the American people have their number and won't put up with the continued trampling of our freedoms at the expense of their liberal ideology."

Comment on this post

Demmer catching NRCC's eye

Posted at 2:42 PM on June 14, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Randy Demmer is catching the eye of the National Republican Congressional Committee. The NRCC has added Demmer, who is running in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District, to a list of top Republican contenders. The NRCC announced today that Demmer has reached a "benchmark" that puts him on the path to the NRCC's "Young Guns" list. The group of young guns will receive party support and fundraising help to win elections.

The NRCC's Tom Erickson said Demmer is on the lowest level of the Young Guns list. If he improves fundraising and other organizational efforts, he said Demmer will move up another level. There are currently 23 Young Gun candidates.

Demmer is running against DFL Rep. Tim Walz.

DCCC adds 6th to Red to Blue list

Posted at 9:08 AM on June 14, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is set to add Minnesota's 6th Congressional District to its "Red to Blue" list. DCCC spokesman Ryan Rudominer said the announcement will be official shortly. The race features GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann against Democrat Tarryl Clark and the Independence Party's Bob Anderson.

The DCCC's decision to add Minnesota's 6th Congressional District to its list of targeted races means Democrats are optimistic they can defeat Bachmann this year. But it's no guarantee. The DCCC targeted Bachmann in 2008 and failed to win the seat. FEC reports also show Bachmann has been an active fundraiser. She raised $2.3 million through March 31st and has $1.5 million in the bank. Those figures don't include the funds Bachmann raised from a Sarah Palin fundraiser in April.

Rudominer said Clark should see a financial and organizational boost as a result of the decision but he wouldn't disclose how much money Clark could raise.

Ellison to host forum on immigration

Posted at 2:47 PM on June 11, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is scheduled to host a community forum in two weeks on immigration. Here are the details from Ellison's office:

What: Community Forum: "Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Reuniting Families and Building Communities"

Who: Congressman Keith Ellison, Representing Minnesota's Fifth Congressional District, Minnesota State Senator Patricia Torres-Ray, Luz Maria Frias, the Director of the Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Department in the City of St. Paul

When:
6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Monday, June 21st, 2010

Where: Project for Pride in Living
1035 East Franklin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55404

McCollum to talk health care bill

Posted at 10:16 AM on June 7, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum has scheduled a townhall meeting today to talk about the recently enacted health care law and how it will impact senior citizens. Here are the details released through McCollum's office:

WHO: Congresswoman Betty McCollum, representing Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District

WHAT: Health Care Reform Informational Session

WHEN: Monday, June 7, 2010, 2:00 - 2:45 p.m. CST

WHERE: Episcopal Homes, Coventry Chapel, 1840 University Avenue W., St. Paul, Minnesota

Kline on Midday

Posted at 10:15 AM on June 7, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

GOP Rep. John Kline will be on MPR's Midday today at 11am to discuss his recent trip to Afghanistan, the war in Iraq and the financial services bill.

Clark has clear path now that Reed drops out...

Posted at 6:20 PM on June 6, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Maureen Reed, a DFL candidate for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District, announced today that she's dropping out of the race. Reed said in a statement that a prolonged primary fight would only help GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann win reelection.

"It is with a heavy heart that I am suspending operations in my campaign for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. During the past few days, I have come to the conclusion that a prolonged primary fight only assists Michele Bachmann. The other DFL challenger, Tarryl Clark, has amassed more resources, and I feel that it is time for the DFL to unify behind one candidate in this race..."

Reed's decision creates a clear path for DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark. Clark won the DFL endorsement for Congress and also secured the support of labor. Here's a statement from Clark's team:

Today, a spirited competitor has exited the race for Congress. Our thorough discussion with voters of the challenges that face the people of the 6th Congressional District and what it will take to defeat our opponent in November has built a strong, winning foundation for the DFL this fall.

Though we disagreed at times, we always had the same goal - taking back our communities from Waite Park to Blaine to Stillwater and everywhere in between. We both saw that Washington, and our current member of Congress, are simply not working for us. We talked to workers who had lost their jobs and heard frustration from those whose homes had been foreclosed. And we agreed that Michele Bachmann's jet setting to celebrity appearances would not solve these challenges.

And it is because we possessed the common goal of restoring real representation and getting the people's work done, that I am honored by and thankful for Maureen Reed's endorsement. Dr. Reed's supporters and volunteers did a tremendous amount of work to help defeat Michele Bachmann in November, and I invite and encourage them to continue those efforts with our team. Working together as a united DFL, I am even more confident that we will win - and give the 6th District the representation it deserves in Congress.

The race in Minnesota's 6th District is likely to be the most competitive and expensive Congressional race this year. Both Bachmann and Clark have been raising money at a rapid clip.

Filings closed - a closer look

Posted at 5:40 PM on June 1, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature

Filings have closed at the Minnesota Secretary of State's office. Candidates have the option of filing at county offices so there may be some new candidates but we're seeing the field basically shape up.

Here's what we know. Several incumbents are facing primary challenges.

U.S. Representative District 4
DFL Rep. Betty McCollum is facing a challenge from Diana Longrie

U.S. Representative District 5
DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is facing a challenge from Gregg A. Iverson and Barb Davis White.

U.S. Representative District 8
DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar is facing a challenge from W.D. (Bill) Hamm

Minnesota Senate District 12
GOP Sen. Paul Koering is facing a primary challenge from former GOP Rep. Paul Gazelka.

Minnesota Senate District 41
GOP Sen. Geoff Michel is facing a primary challenge from Bill Reichert

Minnesota Senate District 50
DFL Sen. Satveer Chaudhary is facing a primary challenge from former DFL Rep. Barbara Goodwin

Minnesota Senate District 58
DFL Sen. Linda Higgins is facing a primary challege Troy Parker.

Minnesota House District 4A
DFL Rep. John Persell is facing a primary challege from Mark Thorson

Minnesota House District 35B
GOP Rep. Mark Buesgens is facing a primary challenge from Tom Rees.

Minnesota House District 58A
DFL Rep. Joe Mullery is facinga primary challenge from David Anthony Boyd.

Minnesota Senate Incumbents who don't face an opponent this year:

SD24
GOP Sen. Julie Rosen

SD32
GOP Sen. Warren Limmer

13A
GOP Rep. Paul Anderson

18A
GOP Rep. Ron Shimanski

21B
GOP Rep. Paul Torkelson

34B
GOP Rep. Joe Hoppe

Comment on this post

MN House delegation split on DADT repeal

Posted at 6:11 AM on May 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

The Minnesota members of the U.S. House of Representatives split their votes on an amendment that would repeal the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law.

The House voted 234 - 194 to repeal a provision that prohibits openly gay people from serving in the military. The roll call shows that every Republican and one Democrat in Minnesota voted against the measure.

Critics say Congress should wait for a military review of the system be done first.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz defended his vote on the House floor (watch video here). Meanwhile, GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann tells the St. Cloud Times that DADT has worked well.

Here's the Roll Call:

Democrats voting Yes:
Rep. Tim Walz
Rep. Betty McCollum
Rep. Keith Ellison
Rep. Jim Oberstar

Republicans voting Yes
None

Democrats voting No
Rep. Collin Peterson

Republicans voting No
Rep. Erik Paulsen
Rep. John Kline
Rep. Michele Bachmann

Comment on this post

Bachmann campaign hits Clark on tax vote

Posted at 10:59 AM on May 12, 2010 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

On Monday, DFL Sen. Tarryl Clark was the final vote on a budget balancing bill that would have cut government spending and raised income taxes on Minnesota's top earners. It usually doesn't matter when a person votes unless the vote is tied 33-33. For roughly twenty minutes the board was held open as the Senate waited for Clark to vote. Clark was out of the Senate chambers attending to what she said was a medical emergency for her child.

The vote could be considered a political liability for Clark, the DFL endorsed candidate for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. On Tuesday, GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's campaign manager, Gina Countryman, worked to display the difference in an e-mail to supporters:

At a time when the people of Minnesota and the 6th Congressional District are looking for solutions to the economic crisis, a clear distinction has been made between Michele Bachmann and her opponent. While Michele was touring the 6th Congressional District talking about job creation and other ways of improving the economic conditions around the district, her Democrat opponent cast the final and deciding vote in the State Senate to put $435 million in new taxes on the backs of the hard-working Minnesotans. Not only would this vote give Minnesota the distinction of the 5th highest tax bracket in the nation, but it would affect more than 40,000 small businesses across the state. At a time when the economy is already suffering, the last thing we should be doing is placing burdens on the job creators of our state.

The difference between Michele and her opponent could not be clearer. While Michele has a record of fighting for lower taxes, reducing government spending and ensuring that Minnesotans have the tools they need to succeed, "Taxin'" Tarryl Clark has had a career of voting for tax increases that would hit families and small businesses the hardest.

It isn't clear whether this particular vote will be a deciding factor in the race for Congress especially since Clark, the Assistant Majority Leader in the Minnesota Senate, has voted for other tax hikes during her time in the Senate. On Monday, she did release a statement defending her vote:

I believe in fiscal responsibility. Just like every family has to balance their checkbook, we have to balance our state's budget. Last year, we passed a balanced budget but the Governor rejected our approach. A year later, we find ourselves in an even deeper hole that must be addressed - and unfortunately, the easy answers are long gone. The budget we passed today is largely comprised of deep cuts. But it doesn't do what the Governor's unilateral actions did: leave countless Minnesotans out in the cold, bankrupt our schools, and pass the buck onto local property taxpayers.

I've always tried to do what was right, rather than what was safe, and fought tirelessly for the people I represent. It may be easier to just say no, but I've spent my career being a part of the solution - and that means making tough decisions. Among the tough choices we made are deep cuts to our state's budget - cuts that go all the way to the bone, to the tune of $737 million with this bill. Today's cuts are in addition to the billions in cuts over the last few years. These are real cuts that affect real people.

No doubt there will be overheated partisan attacks by those who have offered no solutions of their own. But I'm not here to advance my own personal agenda. I was elected to get the job done, to put Minnesota's fiscal house back in order - and that's what we did today.

Going forward, I will continue to seek common ground with the Governor and my colleagues from the other side of the aisle so that we can get the job done for the people who sent us here, and I will continue to work to ensure Minnesota's budget is balanced - and not on the backs of those middle class families who are already stretched thin in these tough economic times.

UPDATE: Clark's DFL opponent in the primary, Maureen Reed, sent this note to supporters touting her electability:

In a conservative leaning district, we cannot beat Michele Bachmann with another partisan politician. Unfortunately, Tarryl Clark's work as a state senate Assistant Majority Leader has given Michele Bachmann and the Minnesota Republican Party fuel to fire their partisan rhetoric and name calling.

In fact, months before the election, Bachmann has already attacked Senator Clark as a "tax and spend liberal." Today, the Star Tribune reported that Republicans have dubbed Senator Clark, "Taxin' Tarryl." On the other extreme, Tarryl Clark once referred to Michele Bachmann as a "devil in a blue dress." The name calling is just more politics as usual. This needs to change.

This race needs to focus on who is the best candidate for the residents of the sixth district - who is the best candidate to solve the problems of unemployment, home foreclosure and health care reform - Who is the democratic candidate that Michele Bachmann and the Republicans can't dismiss with their toxic partisan rhetoric

We cannot beat Michele Bachmann with a traditional candidate. We can win with Maureen Reed.

Comment on this post

Bachmann to host jobs forum

Posted at 2:08 PM on May 4, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. MN CD6, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann will hold a series of job forums next Monday, May 10th. A spokeswoman for Bachmann said Bachmann will be at each event. Here are the details from the office:

With the unemployment rate in Minnesota coming in at over 8%, Minnesotans are rightly worried about the economy, the seemingly futile policies being enacted by our government to combat it, and the future of our nation. I hope that Sixth District residents are able to join me at one of the four forums on May 10th so we can work together to discuss new policies and opportunities for job growth as our economy struggles to regain its momentum.

County and state employment specialists have been invited to be on-site to provide individual assistance and advice for those hiring and those seeking employment. The forums are free and open to the public.

St. Cloud
10:00am - 11:30am
Holiday Inn, intersection of Highway 15 & Highway 23
75 37th Ave. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Monticello
1:00pm - 2:30pm
Community Center, City of Monticello
505 Walnut Street, Monticello, MN 55362

Blaine
4:00pm - 5:30pm
Brook Hall/Blainebrook
12000 Central Avenue NE, Blaine, MN 55434

Hugo
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Hugo American Legion
5383 140th Street North, Hugo, MN 55038

Comment on this post

GOP congressional candidates fire up delegates.

Posted at 11:19 AM on April 30, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The GOP candidates for Congress have been giving speeches to the GOP delegates.

1st District Repubican Randy Demmer, who is challenging DFL Rep. Tim Walz. Here's Demmer's speech: Listen

8th District Republican Chip Cravaak, who is challenging DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar. Here's Cravaak's speech: Listen

Joel Demos is challenging Congressman Keith Ellison in the fifth district.
Here's Demos' speech: Listen

Collett, Byberg make bids for Congress

Posted at 8:48 PM on April 29, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Two Republican congressional candidates, who are challenging longtime DFL incumbents, addressed state convention delegates Thursday night in Minneapolis.

Teresa Collett is challenging Congresswoman Betty McCollum in the fourth district. Collett said she wants to help cut the federal government back to constitutional size.

"We live in a time where every single one of us has got to do what we are called to do to take this country back," Collett said.

Collett Listen

Lee Byberg is running against Congressman Collin Peterson in the seventh district. Byberg said he was born in the United State but was raised in Norway. He said he decided to become an American citizen when he was 18.

"With America, there's no king, there's no elite, there's no social class who can tell you how far you can go," Byberg said. "Have you ever heard of the German dream, the French dream, the Italian dream or even the dream from Norway? I'll tell you they do have those dreams but it's about America."

Byberg Listen

Franken wants CEOs to "Say Cheese" in political ads

Posted at 11:29 AM on April 29, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

DFL Sen. Al Franken and several other U.S. Senators are backing legislation that would require any corporate CEOs to appear in any political ads that they purchase. The measure would also prohibit foreign companies and government contractors from participating. Here's part of the news release:

Under the Senators' proposal, the heads of any organization sponsoring an ad--including corporate CEOs--would be required to appear during the ad, as is currently required of candidates for federal office. In cases where special interests funnel their money into shell groups, the top five organizations that have donated to the group would have to be identified on screen during any ad sponsored by that group. The CEO of the group's top funder for that particular advertisement would also be required to appear on screen to deliver a "stand by your ad" disclaimer. The DISCOLOSE Act would effectively require, for the first time, all corporations and advocacy groups that make political expenditures to establish easy-to-track campaign accounts. All donations to these accounts that exceed $1,000--as well as all expenditures funded through these accounts--would be reported within 24 hours to the Federal Election Commission once the money is spent, as well as to the public on the organization's website, and to company shareholders in their corporate filing statements. If a company or organization did not wish to establish these transparent accounts, it would be required to disclose all its donors, not just those whose contributions are earmarked for political activities. The legislation will also strengthen a candidate's ability to respond to corporate attack ads by ensuring they can purchase air time at the lowest possible rate in the same media markets where these attacks ads are airing. The bill would also make sure that private corporations don't coordinate their political activities with candidates. The legislation was developed together with the Obama administration and House leaders including U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.). Van Hollen was expected to introduce the House version of the DISCLOSE Act later today with Republican cosponsors.

Update: Here's a statement from U.S. Chamber President Tom Donohue:

"What's most in need of disclosure is the real purpose behind this bill--it's nothing more than a brazen attempt to tilt the playing field in favor of the incumbent party in this fall's elections, silence constitutionally protected speech, and abridge First Amendment rights.

"It's a sad day when legislators like Rep. Van Hollen and Sen. Schumer so blatantly put politics before the people's business. With unemployment near 10% and millions of Americans out of work, Congress should be more concerned about creating jobs than protecting their own. It's no coincidence that Rep. Van Hollen is the chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and Sen. Schumer is immediate past chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Sen. Schumer even admits his legislation is designed to 'impact' this fall's elections 'as much as possible.'

"Stifling free speech is an abuse of the legislative process and is unconstitutional. It will not stand. Free speech does not corrupt our politics, but efforts to limit it do."

Comment on this post

Huckabee and Pawlenty share the stage.

Posted at 10:31 PM on April 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

Mike Huckabee, the former governor of Arkansas and one time presidential candidate, told a group of values voters that liberty cannot exist apart from personal responsibility.

Hucakbee spoke to more than 500 people at a fundraiser for the Minnesota Family Council in Minneapolis (Here's his full speech: Listen). A large portion of his speech focused on social issues and how a nation with strong social values means lower government costs.

"Do you really want to bring the cost and the size of government down?," Huckabee asked. "Bring the level and character of the people up. And that is how it's done."

Huckabee also stressed the importance of focusing on social issues like antiabortion legislation and banning gay marriage.

In 2008, Huckabee won the Iowa Caucuses but ended up losing the party's nomination to Arizona Senator John McCain. He told reporters before the event that he didn't know if his future plans included a White House run.

"If I knew what they were I would tell you," Huckabee said of his future plans. "But right now they are to vote and help other people get elected."

Huckabee has been actively raising money for his federal political action committee. If he decides to run, he could square off against Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty, someone he shared the stage with on Monday night. On Monday night, both Huckabee and Pawlenty showered praise on each other.

"I can tell you there's no finer person in public life with a better heart, a better compass setting than Mike Huckabee," Pawlenty said (Here's Pawlenty's speech: Listen).

Pawlenty said he met privately with Huckabee before the event to discuss their families and politics but declined to provide specifics of the meeting.

This is Pawlenty's final speech to the conservative Minnesota Family Council as acting governor. He received a standing ovation from the crowd after he was introduced as a governor who threatened to veto comprehensive sexual education standards and any law that allows gay marriage.

Before the event, dozens of people protested outside of the Minneapolis Hilton to speak out against Pawlenty and Huckabee. The group, which is pushing for comprehensive immigration reform, chose the site because they say Pawlenty supports policies that they believe hurts immigrant families.

Protesters, including Veronica Mendez of the Interfaith Center for Worker Justice, also criticized the new immigration law passed by Arizona last week.

" The only way that they can actually use this to enforce immigration laws is by discriminating people and profiling and looking for people who look Latino and asking them for their documents," Mendez said. "And it's just promoting absolute racism, profiling and hatred."

Mendez says laws like the new measure in Arizona serve to underscore the need for comprehensive immigration reform on the federal level.

(MPR's Toni Randolph constributed to this report).

Comment on this post

DFL congressional challengers

Posted at 1:42 PM on April 23, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Three DFL congressional candidates took the stage this afternoon at their party's state convention in Duluth.

They're all taking on Republican incumbents this fall. Dan Powers is the DFL's 2nd district candidate. He's challenging Congressman John Kline. N the 3rd district, Jim Meffert is challenging Congressman Erik Paulsen. State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, is facing Congresswoman Michele Bachmann in the 6th district.

Powers Listen

Meffert Listen

Clark Listen

Speeches from the 1st District GOP convention

Posted at 4:44 PM on April 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. MN CD1, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Pawlenty travel, Tim Pawlenty

On Saturday, Republicans in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District endorsed state Rep. Randy Demmer to challenge DFL Rep. Tim Walz.

I'm posting the speech he gave just before he was endorsed by acclamation. Listen

Republicans Marty Seifert and Tom Emmer, who are both vying for the GOP endorsement for governor, also spoke at the event.

Here's Seifert's speech: Listen

Here's Emmer's speech: Listen

Update: Gov. Pawlenty's Freedom First PAC is backing Demmer for Congress. His spokesman, Alex Conant, says the PAC will give $2400 to Demmer's campaign.

Comment on this post

GOP prepares to pick a candidate to challenge Walz

Posted at 9:06 AM on April 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

MPR's Mark Zdechlik previews this weekend's endorsement contest in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. Four Republicans are actively vying for the seat. Delegates are scheduled to endorse a candidate in Mankato on Saturday.

Bachmann raised $810k in 1st Qtr.

Posted at 5:12 PM on April 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. MN CD6, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's campaign for Congress reports raising $810,000 in the first quarter of 2010. Her campaign reports having $1.53 million on hand. The totals don't include last week's rally with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin since the rally/fundraiser occurred in the 2nd Quarter. Here's Bachmann's release:

Congresswoman Michele Bachmann of Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District today filed her 2010 first quarter report with the Federal Elections Commission showing over $810,000 raised the first quarter, with $1.53 million cash on hand.

"I am so grateful for the support of nearly 8,000 individuals who contributed to my campaign this quarter," Bachmann said. "We have worked hard to build a grassroots team of contributors that will give us the strategic edge to win in November, and it is with their support we will be able to fight back against the Democrats and their special interest allies who have made me a top target for defeat."

More than 7100 of the contributions in the first quarter were in amounts of $100 or less, and included over 3500 first time contributors. In addition to raising over $810,000 in the first quarter of 2010, Bachmann for Congress had a successful launch to the second quarter with a fundraiser featuring Governor Sarah Palin attended by over 900 people.

Comment on this post

Franken looks to 2014

Posted at 4:18 PM on April 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Sen. Al Franken may not have been in the U.S. Senate for a full year yet but he's already focusing on his reelection. FEC reports show that Franken filed the Al Franken for Senate 2014 campaign committee with the FEC on April 5th. The committee allows Franken to start raising funds for his Senate reelection.

Franken also filed a joint fundraising committee today to help fund his Senate campaign and his federal Midwest Values PAC.

Paulsen has more than $1 million in the bank

Posted at 3:46 PM on April 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen's campaign for Congress announced today that he raised $323,526 in the fist quarter of 2010. Paulsen also reports having $1,145,291 in the bank.

Paulsen's DFL opponent, Jim Meffert, didn't release his fundraising figures yet.

Update: DFLer Jim Meffert released these fundraising figures:

Raised in Q1: $69,513 Total Raised (cycle): $117,305 Cash on hand: $32,577

Here's the Paulsen release:

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN - Today, Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) announced that he has raised $323,526 for the first quarter of 2010. The numbers reveal yet another strong quarter for Paulsen, who is a freshman member of Congress representing the Western Suburbs of the Twin Cities Metro Area.

"I am proud to have the support of so many Minnesotans for my reelection campaign," said Paulsen. "With another strong quarter, these numbers show I am fulfilling my promises to the people of the Third District and will have the resources to enter into the 2010 election in a strong position."

Since beginning his first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Paulsen has been noted for his work on fiscal responsibility, government transparency, job creation, and pursuing bipartisan solutions to solve our nation's largest problems. To date in this election cycle, Paulsen has raised $1,523,205 and has $1,145,291 cash on hand.

Comment on this post

Walz raised $314 thousand in 1st Quarter

Posted at 3:40 PM on April 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Tim Walz announced today that his campaign for Congress raised $314,000 dollars in the first quarter of the year. He has $600,000 left in the bank. Republicans will meet on Saturday to endorse a candidate to challenge Walz.

Here's the release from Walz:

Mankato, MN - Today, Tim Walz for US Congress announced the campaign raised more than $1,000,000 for the re-election of Tim Walz. The campaign raised more than $314,000 in the most recent financial quarter and has a significant cash advantage with nearly $600,000 in reserves.

"I am humbled to receive such strong support from Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. With over 7,000 folks joining our grassroots movement in southern Minnesota, it is clear they value the effectiveness on behalf of veterans, our small businesses and working families," said Walz.

##

Reed loans her campaign $250K

Posted at 10:51 AM on April 15, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Dr. Maureen Reed, a DFL candidate for Congress in Minnesota's 6th district, says she'll use $250,000 of her own money to try to unseat incumbent Republican Michele Bachmann.

Reed today released new financial information about her campaign. Her fundraising for the year trailed state Sen. Tarryl Clark, who she'll face in the DFL primary. Clark won the party endorsement. Here's Reed's news release:

Congressional Candidate Maureen Reed announced today that she raised over $204,000 in the first quarter of 2010, ending with $433,000 cash on hand. Reed has raised $779,000 total for her campaign. In addition to the fundraising numbers, the Reed Campaign announced that it will receive a $250,000 loan from the candidate, which will increase the cash on hand to $683,000 and mark over a million dollars coming into the campaign to date.

"This amount levels the playing field between Maureen and her democratic challenger. Maureen is encouraged by the wide support she's received, and this action shows her commitment to this race, dedication to presenting primary voters with a real choice, and defeating Michele Bachmann," said Jason Isaacson, Campaign Manager for Reed's Congressional Campaign.

"Maureen's continued fundraising strength without any high-profile endorsements illustrates that voters want to elect a candidate with extensive real-world experience. Maureen is a political outsider with an incredible background in health care, job creation, and public education. Donors and voters alike know that government is not working for them and that Maureen is the candidate who will work collaboratively and get things done," said Isaacson.

Isaacson added, "At the DFL Convention we were less than 5 votes away from blocking the endorsement, and in last 4 days of the quarter following the convention, we raised over $68,000, indicating that people are not tied to the preferred candidate of DFL activists, but are drawn to a political outsider who can defeat Michele Bachmann in November."

Reed continues to have strong support within Minnesota, with 90% of all donations coming from within the state. In addition, she is heavily supported by individual donors, with 98.5% of all contributions coming from individuals, not PACs or special interests.

The campaign will file its official results with the Federal Election Commission on April 15.

Comment on this post

For your viewing pleasure...

Posted at 5:08 PM on April 9, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature

Here's a list of this weekend's public policy shows (Note: GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann hits the national stage again with an appearance on Fox News Sunday)

TPTs Almanac:
DFL House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, DFL Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller, GOP House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers and GOP Senate Majority Leader Dave Senjem discuss how the legislative session is going. Education Commissioner Alice Seagren and Education Minnesota head Tom Dooher spar over Race to the Top...

KSTP's At Issue:
Tom Horner will be our guest...Independence Party candidate for gov.
Blois Olson, Sarah Janecek, Cathie Hartnett and David Strom with analysis and commentary

WCCO's Sunday Morning:
Pawlenty spokesman Brian McClung, DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark (who is running for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District) and Dan Mallin, Co-founder, Minnesota Cup

Capitol Report:
DFL Sen. Tom Bakk and GOP Sen. Ray Vandeveer discuss a new law that focuses on job and business growth. DFL Sen. Ellen Anderson discusses the growing need for charging stations for electric and plug in hybrid vehicles and dangerous carbon monoxide levels in indoor ice arenas.

THIS WEEK - Topics: the Obama administrations new nuclear policy and arms treaty with Russia. Guests: Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

FACE THE NATION - Topic: Afghanistan, Nuclear Strategy & National Security. Guests: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

STATE OF THE UNION WITH CANDY CROWLEY - Topic: Future of GOP; Strategy for 2010 and 2012. Guest: Gov. Haley Barbour, (R) Mississippi; Chairman, Republican Governors Association. Topic: HBO's "Treme"; Rebuilding Post-Katrina New Orleans. Guests: David Simon, actor Wendell Pierce.

FOX NEWS SUNDAY - Guests: &8234;Sen. Joe Lieberman, (I-Conn.), Armed Services Committee; Sen. Lamar Alexander, (R-Tenn.), Chairman, Republican Conference; Rep. Michele Bachmann, (R-Minn.).

MEET THE PRESS - Guests: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; Defense Secretary Robert Gates; Queen Noor of Jordan; former Rep. Harold Ford Jr. (D-Tenn.), Chair, Democratic Leadership Council.

Comment on this post

Speeches!

Posted at 5:51 PM on April 7, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

Here's the audio from a few of today's speeches.

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann: Listen

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin: Listen

Governor Tim Pawlenty: Listen

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum and DFL Rep. Keith Ellison: Listen

Immelman will make second bid to unseat Bachmann

Posted at 1:25 PM on April 7, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

A college professor who unsuccessfully challenged Congresswoman Michele Bachmann in the Republican primary two years ago says he'll try again this year.

Aubrey Immelman of Sartell announced his plans today on his Web site.

Today, I announce a second challenge to incumbent Rep. Michele Bachmann for the U.S. House of Representatives seat in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District, on a platform of national security, law and order, fiscal responsibility, and uncompromising opposition to political extremism.

The announcement comes the same day as Bachmann's high profile rally in Minneapolis with former Alaska governor Sarah Palin. Immelman teaches at St. John's University and the College of St. Benedict. He has not yet decided whether to run as a Republican or independent.

"The reason that I've decided to run again is because I want to provide voters with an alternative to our incumbent congresswoman," Immelman said. "I'm especially concerned about the revolution that's in the air. I do not think that is good for our country."

Comment on this post

Bachmann and Palin draw praise, criticism

Posted at 11:33 AM on April 7, 2010 by Mike Mulcahy (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty, U.S. House

Apparently there's nothing like a Michele Bachmann-Sarah Palin get-together to fire up people on both sides of the political debate.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who is scheduled to attend Bachmann and Palin's rally in Minneapolis this afternoon, is defending the 6th District GOP congresswoman and trying to raise a little money for his federal PAC.

He sent out this e-mail:

Michele Bachmann is under attack from extreme liberal activists for standing up for her Constitutional conservative principles. Michele has a proven record of promoting free markets, questioning the encroachment of the federal government, and refusing to accept that government officials in Washington should make decisions for everyday Americans.

I founded Freedom First PAC in order to support candidates who will promote these conservative principles to ensure a strong America for future generations. Michele Bachmann is one of these proven conservative candidates.

DFL U.S. Reps Keith Ellison and Betty McCollum will be at a noontime rally at the Capitol sponsored by the AFL-CIO to counter Bachmann's events. As we noted here earlier this week Ellison is also trying to raise campaign money around the Palin visit.

Bachmann's potential November opponents are also taking note of Palin's visit. Maureen Reed, who intends to run in the DFL primary in August, let her campaign manager do the talking:

"Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann's 'let them eat cake' mentality is just out of touch with the district and does not serve the interests of the people," Jason Isaacson, Campaign Manager for the Reed Campaign said.

"Assembled in Minneapolis today are two of the authors of many of the worst deceptions from the past year's health care debate. Not only are they unrepentant, but they have been emboldened by the national coverage and the year of delays before comprehensive health care reform was past."

And state Sen. Tarryl Clark, who won the DFL endorsement to run against Bachmann, spent some time in Stillwater this morning to note that Bachmann has been spending a lot of time outside the 6th District. Here's part of what her campaign said:

While Clark works for the people of the 6th District, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann continues to pursue her own agenda - at the expense of the people she was elected to represent. Instead of working for her constituents, Michele Bachmann will take the stage in Minneapolis for a rally and big-ticket fundraiser with her friend Sarah Palin.

This rounds out a Congressional recess which Bachmann has spent traveling the state and the nation - with stops in Iowa, Florida, and Duluth, Moorhead and Rochester, Minnesota - promoting her own personal agenda while virtually ignoring her District and the constituents she represents.

Comment on this post

DNC takes preemptive shot at Bachmann, Palin

Posted at 10:29 AM on April 7, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

In advance of today's GOP rally in Minneapolis, featuring Congresswoman Michele Bachmann and former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, the Democratic National Committee released a new web ad.

A DNC news release accuses Bachmann and Palin of inciting fear and anger.

"Like peas in a pod, these two darlings of the extreme right wing fringe not only spout the most hateful and incendiary rhetoric in the public discourse today, but are also the faces of the new Republican Party," said DNC National Press Secretary Hari Sevugan.

Comment on this post

Clark brings in $505k in 1st Quarter

Posted at 12:45 PM on April 6, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Tarryl Clark's campaign for Congress reports raising $505,000 in the first quarter of 2010. The campaign also reports that it raised a total of $1.1 million for her campaign. I'm checking to see how much Clark has left in the bank.

Clark, who won the DFL endorsement for Congress in Minnesota's 6th District, will face Stillwater Physician Maureen Reed in the DFL primary. The winner will face GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann in November.

The remaining endorsing conventions

Posted at 7:30 AM on April 3, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

To date, Democrats have endorsed DFL Rep. Tim Walz, DFL Rep. Keith Ellison and DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark for Congress. Republicans have endorsed GOP Rep. John Kline and GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann.

Here are the dates of the respective endorsing conventions that are left and who is seeking party backing in each race.

DFL Congressional District 2
Shelley Madore and Dan Powers are seeking the endorsement.

DFL Congressional District 3
Maureen Hackett and Jim Meffert are seeking the endorsement.

DFL Congressional District 7
DFL Rep. Collin Peterson is seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 5
Joel Demos is seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 7
Karen Nelson, Melva Larson, Glen Menze and Lee Byberg are seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 8
Chip Cravaack, Darrel Trulson, Justin Eichorn and Rob Farnsworth are seeking the endorsement.

DFL Congressional District 4
DFL Rep. Betty McCollum is seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 1
Jim Engstrand, Allen Quist, Randy Demmer, Jim Hagedorn and Frank McKenzie are seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 3
GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen is seeking the endorsement.

GOP Congressional District 4
Joe Blum, Teresa Collett, Brad Lee and Gene Rechtzigel are seeking the endorsement.

DFL Congressional District 8
DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar is seeking the endorsement.

New PAC targets Bachmann

Posted at 1:54 PM on April 1, 2010 by Mike Mulcahy
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Rep. Michele Bachmann is scheduled to hold a rally and fundraiser next week with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Now some Minnesota residents say they've created a political action committee to target what they say is her "real" record. They call it the RAT PAC, which stands for "Residents for Accuracy and Truth."

One of the organizers, David Day, told Minnesota Public Radio News the group is made up of people from different political ideologies, including some Republicans. He declined to name them though.

He said the 6th District residents are tired of watching their representative on Fox News rather than getting a chance to see her anywhere in the district.

Day said he hoped the new PAC would raise money from all over the nation. He said the PAC is interested in exposing Bachmann misstatements and that it would be watching other politicians as well.

The PAC has already created this video:

"It may make us as crazy as she is, but we're proud to take on the task of trying to keep Bachmann honest," Day said. "Despite what people outside our district think, most people here aren't like Bachmann, but she gets away with doing what she does because only periodically do her outrageous statements get press coverage. The 'anti-American' stuff from 2008 made her famous, but to those of us who have been living with her for a while--we know that's nothing new."

Bachmann told MPR News last month that her outreach benefits her constituents, and that they appreciate her efforts.

Ellison visiting Saudi Arabia

Posted at 7:25 AM on March 31, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is in Saudi Arabia today. The second term Democrat says on his Twitter feed that he made the trip with business leaders:

I am in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) w/ 16 Minnesota businesses building bi-lateral business relationship. Had 11. Growing.

Ellison also said on his Twitter feed that he met with a Muslim leader on the trip.

Had an excellent meeting w/ the Custodian of the Two Holy Sites yesterday. Very wise and intelligent man.

Custodian of Two Holy Sites is King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz of of Saudi Arabia. 85 yrs. Focused on modernizing very traditional nation

I contacted Ellison's spokesman to find out how long he'll be in Saudi Arabia, who he's traveling with and who paid for the trip. I'll post the information if/when it becomes available.

Update: Ellison's spokesman says Ellison's trip was authorized and paid for by the Foreign Affairs Committee on which he sits. You can find the full list of participants here. It includes members of the Minnesota Trade Council, Faegre & Benson LLP and Hormel.

Update: Ellison's Twitter feed on Thursday says he's in Israel:

In Israel, driving thru rolling hills into Jeruselam. Beautiful scenes juxtaposed w/ apparent bedoin poverty. Settlements visible from hwy.

Comment on this post

Oberstar backing Rukavina

Posted at 2:56 PM on March 30, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar is backing Tom Rukavina's campaign for governor. Oberstar announced on a conference call today that he's backing Rukavina because they've worked together on creating jobs for the iron ore and wood fiber industries, for community service and the needs of the Iron Range communities.

"Tom Rukavina has been a consistent solid and persistent voice for the people of northeastern Minnesota," Oberstar said. "He's seen hard times on the Iron Range and knows the value of a job."

Oberstar, from Chisholm, is the second member of Minnesota's congressional delegation to back a candidate. DFL Rep. Keith Ellison is backing Matt Entenza's campaign. DFL Rep. Betty McCollum was backing Steve Kelley, who dropped out of the race in February.

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann and GOP Rep. John Kline said they won't support a candidate until after the GOP endorsing convention.

UPDATE

Here's the conference call audio: Listen

Comment on this post

Frederickson is the 14th lawmaker to retire

Posted at 11:40 AM on March 30, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature

GOP state Sen. Dennis Frederickson of New Ulm announced today that he'll retire this year and won't run for a tenth term. Frederickson told the New Ulm Journal that it's been a privilege to work in the Minnesota Senate.

"It is still tremendously rewarding to serve in the Minnesota Senate, and I intend to continue working hard in the Senate until January 2011," Frederickson said. "But it is time to spend more time with my wife, Marj; fishing, hunting, canoeing the Minnesota River; and enjoying grandchildren's concerts, gymnastics, basketball and soccer games. I want to visit our beautiful state parks and trails and enjoy the outdoors,"

Frederickson is the fifth state senator to retire. Here's the full list:

(Note: I updated this list from a previous post since Tarryl Clark won the DFL endorsement for Congress in Minnesota's 6th. Republican Randy Demmer says he won't run for his House seat. Demmer is running for Congress in Minnesota's 1st District. GOP Rep. Dan Severson also says he's not running for reelection. He's seeking the GOP endorsement for Secretary of State.)

Minnesota House
DFL House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher
DFL Rep. Karla Bigham
DFL Rep. Jeremy Kalin
DFL Rep. Cy Thao
GOP Rep. Rob Eastlund
GOP Rep. Randy Demmer
GOP Rep. Marty Seifert
GOP Rep. Dan Severson

Minnesota Senate
DFL Sen. Steve Murphy
DFL Sen. Jim Vickerman
DFL Sen. Tarryl Clark
GOP Sen. Steve Dille
GOP Sen. Pat Pariseau
GOP Sen. Dennis Frederickson

Comment on this post

The Medical Device Tax: What impact will it have?

Posted at 9:12 AM on March 29, 2010 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

There has been a lot of political chatter about a Wall Street Journal report citing Medtronic CEO Bill Hawkins saying the excise tax would lead to the loss of 1,000 jobs. Republicans, like GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann and GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen, say the tax will mean jobs losses in the industry and are pointing to Hawkins comment to back it up.

MPR's Annie Baxter reports this morning that Medtronic's spokesperson clarified that statement:

A Medtronic spokesman said in an email that the statement was taken out of context; Medtronic does not have plans to eliminate jobs as a result of the health care reform law.

The spokesman said Hawkins meant the industry as a whole would lose jobs, and that Medtronic is worried about the impact of the excise tax on device makers large and small.

But Baxter reports that the Medical Device Tax, which is a part of the recently signed health care law, will impact the industry, especially smaller companies.

Check out the entire story here.

Update: Here's the full statement from Medtronic on the impact of the new law:

Like the passage of Medicare in 1965, the health care reform bill signed Tuesday by President Obama will shape the future of U.S. health care and our industry for decades to come. Medtronic supports patient access to affordable, quality health coverage and new law takes our country in this direction. We helped to form several elements of this legislation, but there is no doubt it will have an impact on our business.

The excise tax on medical devices now included in the law was reduced from $60 billion to $20 billion over 10 years. It provides for a 2013 start date to coincide with coverage expansion; it will be a conventional excise tax with full deductibility; and it will cover all product classes with the exception of retail products like contact lenses and possibly many diabetes supplies, including continuous glucose monitors, which we manufacture. The impact of the tax, we estimate, will be roughly $150 to $200 million on Medtronic annually beginning in 2013. We have no immediate plans to eliminate jobs at Medtronic as a result of the device tax or health care reform. We accept our shared fiscal responsibility for coverage expansion, and are very appreciative of our constituent members of Congress from Minnesota and Indiana, in particular, for having significantly tempered the size, distribution and timing of the tax.

In addition to the tax, the bill also includes some positive changes like uniform federal standards for disclosure transfers of value to physicians for product development and training, something Medtronic has long supported. Relationships between physicians and companies like ours help fuel innovation and advance patient care. Also, the new law calls for the creation of a national body to study and compare the clinical effectiveness of widely used medical therapies. This research is designed to help patients and health care practitioners better understand which therapies work best for which patients.

We will stay engaged as the new law is implemented to ensure our ability to remain innovative and shape our business and our therapies to compete in this new environment.

Comment on this post

Clark endorsed on first ballot

Posted at 2:21 PM on March 27, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL activists in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District are backing state Sen. Tarryl Clark for Congress. Clark was endorsed on the first ballot over Maureen Reed.

The endorsement means Clark will have the support of the party infrastructure but she'll still have a fight for the DFL nomination. Reed has said she'll run in the August primary regardless of the outcome of the convention.

Clark has been telling delegates that her work as a state Senator from St. Cloud makes her best suited to defeat Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Reed says she's best suited because she can attract independent minded voters.

Bachmann could be difficult to beat in November since it's a Republican leaning district and she raised $1.5 million dollars through the end of last year.

You can read the DFL Party's news release on the endorsement here.

Hackett hits Paulsen on spending

Posted at 5:53 PM on March 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Associated Press is reporting today that GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen's congressional office spent $413,996.12 on mass mailings, teleconferences and other communications. That's third highest among the 54 freshman members of Congress:

"With so many significant issues being discussed in Washington such as health care reform, jobs and the economy, we are constantly being asked what Congress is doing and what is in these bills," Paulsen spokesman Andrew Foxwell told the AP. "It is our job to inform citizens in a timely manner and to ask for their feedback, which is why we are aggressively striving to communicate with constituents."

One of Paulsen's DFL opponents, Maureen Hackett, criticized the spending in a news release:

"While every representative has an obligation to reach out to his or her constituents, the $413,996 Paulsen spent on mass communications last year-the third-highest total in Congress, according to the Associated Press is beyond excessive.

The people of the 3rd Congressional District would be far better served if Paulsen opted for a few less taxpayer-funded, campaign-style mailings and meetings in front of hand-picked, friendly audiences. Instead, we need a representative who's willing to listen directly to the people and respond to them without the aid of spin-masters, graphic designers and tele-town hall phone operators."

Hackett is seeking the DFL endorsement against Jim Meffert. The 3rd Congressional District's DFL endorsing convention is scheduled for April 10th

Update: Meffert's campaign released this statement:

"For someone who claims to be a fiscal conservative, those numbers just don't add up. While members of Congress need to keep their constituents informed, Paulsen's blatant misuse of taxpayer funds is irresponsible and hypocritical," Meffert said, adding that 'while branding himself a fiscal conservative, Paulsen has overtly abused hundreds of thousands of our tax dollars for his own political gain.'

"This is not leadership, it's sleight-of-hand. The repeated use of taxpayer funds to send out campaign-style mailings shows that Paulsen is not as concerned with representing our district as he is with winning at any cost. Paulsen has been on the government payroll for 20 years - it's time for him to go.'

For your viewing pleasure...

Posted at 5:33 PM on March 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Here's a look at this weekend's public policy shows. GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann gets a national speaking slot on Face the Nation.

TPT's Almanac:
Tonight on Almanac Duluth Mayor Don Ness talks up his city's bid to get ultra-high-speed broadband... St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman responds to the KSTP-TV investigation of his Public Works Department... Dick Day debates racinos with a rep from the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association... and Mary Lahammer sits down with Jesse Ventura who tells her that paranoia can be a good thing.

KSTP's At Issue:
They didn't get back to me. Political analysts Sarah Janacek, Carhie Hartnett and David Strom.

WCCO's Sunday Morning:
DFL Sen. Al Franken

Capitol Report:
An alternative way to prepare potential teachers is detailed in committee, and on this weeks program. Julie Bartkey sits down with Senate author Terri Bonoff (DFL-Minnetonka) to discuss the initiative. Tom Dooher, Pres. of Education Minnesota, details why the union he heads up opposes the bill, and offers his reform ideas. Sen. Gen Olson (R-Minnetrista) gives her perspective as a former school teacher on education reform. Finally, Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy) discusses his idea to use a scratch off lottery game to fund Veterans programs.

ABC's "This Week" - White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett.

CBS' "Face the Nation" - Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C.; Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn.; Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine.

NBC's "Meet the Press" - Sens. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.

CNN's "State of the Union" - White House senior adviser David Axelrod; Sens. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and Barbara Mikulski, D-Md.

"Fox News Sunday" - Debate between Republican candidates for U.S. Senate: Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and former state House Speaker Marco Rubio.

DNC runs ads supporting Walz and Oberstar

Posted at 7:09 AM on March 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The DNC is running TV ads thanking DFL Reps. Tim Walz and Jim Oberstar for their health care votes.

"The ads will praise House Democrats who supported historic legislation to reform our nation's health insurance system and highlight House Republicans who voted against health reform, which makes health insurance more affordable, reins in insurance company abuses and extends coverage to millions of Americans who lack it today," a DNC news release said.

You can watch the Walz ad here.

You can watch the Oberstar ad here.

Clark and Reed square off on Midday

Posted at 5:08 PM on March 25, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The two Democrats running for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District will square off on MPR's Midday on Friday morning at 11 o'clock.

DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark of St. Cloud and Stillwater physician Maureen Reed will work to win the DFL endorsement at the 6th Distrct endorsing convention on Saturday. Clark says she intends to drop out of the race if she doesn't win party backing. Reed says she will run in an August primary regardless of the endorsement.

The DFL nominee will face GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann in November. I'm told MPR has invited Bachmann to appear on Midday on another day in April.

About that Nostradamus thing

Posted at 5:12 PM on March 25, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

We've been thinking about Congresswoman Michele Bachmann's recent boastful claim that she now looks like Nostradamus for those memorable Obama, anti-American comments.

We dug back into the archives for a little refreshing on what Bachmann had to say in October 2008. Shortly after the MSNBC interview, Bachmann was clearly distancing herself from the flap. She even claimed that she never said what people said she said. Listen

Also, Bachmann makes another TV appearance tonight. She'll be on Fox News with Sean Hannity talking health care.

Comment on this post

Clark raising money off of Bachmann's Nostradamus comments

Posted at 2:38 PM on March 25, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Tarry Clark is using comments by her Republican opponent, Rep. Michele Bachmann, to raise money. Politico reports that Bachmann said at a private fundraiser for Susan B. Anthony List, a group opposed to legalized abortion, that she looks like Nostradamous for suggesting last year that President Obama had anti-American views:

Bachmann also said that her controversial remarks of more than a year ago - in which she called Obama "anti-American" and suggested members of Congress be investigated for "anti-American activities" - have proven prophetic.

"I said I had very serious concerns that Barack Obama had anti-American views," she said. "And now I look like Nostradamus."

Bachmann's 2008 opponent, El Tinklenberg penned a fundraising e-mail on Clark's behalf criticizing Bachmann's comments:

We need to put an end to this kind of fear-mongering from Michele Bachmann and her right-wing allies, which we're already seeing incite hatred and violence across the country in recent days.

In 2008, you rallied to my side and flooded our campaign with the resources necessary to take Bachmann on. Today, I need you to do the same for Tarryl Clark so that she can beat Michele Bachmann and send a message that Minnesota's 6th District is tired of her rhetoric and ready for real leadership in Congress.

Clark is seeking the DFL endorsement against Maureen Reed.

Comment on this post

Pawlenty and Bachmann speak to anti-abortion group

Posted at 10:22 PM on March 24, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Pawlenty travel, Tim Pawlenty, U.S. House

Gov. Pawlenty and GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann spoke to a closed press fundraiser for the anti-abortion group, Susan B. Anthony List. While the event was closed press, Politico was able to hear the speeches and there was plenty of red meat thrown around.

The news outlet reports that Pawlenty said President Obama and the Democratic controlled Congress is "being more hostile and challenging the pro-life position and values than any time since Roe V. Wade:

"We don't honor the Constitution when we elevate a vague idea that is the right to privacy over the right to life," Pawlenty said, going on to urge the assembled donors to re-arm for a renewed fight over abortion.

"We have to realize that this is not just about the tactics," he said. "The laws and the court decisions and the like will change when hearts are changed and minds are changed."

(Side note: Obama signed an executive order today that is designed to ensure no federal money can be used for elective abortions under the nation's new health care law. Several groups that support legalized abortion criticized the move.)

Meanwhile, Bachmann reportedly told the audience that she may have been clairvoyant when she called President Obama "anti-American."

Bachmann also said that her controversial remarks of more than a year ago - in which she called Obama "anti-American" and suggested members of Congress be investigated for "anti-American activities" - have proven prophetic.

"I said I had very serious concerns that Barack Obama had anti-American views," she said. "And now I look like Nostradamus."

Comment on this post

House passes GAMC fix

Posted at 4:45 PM on March 24, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature, Tim Pawlenty

The Minnesota House passed a bill that would restore funding for General Assistance Medical Care, a state subsidized health insurance program for the poor. The bill passed 121-12.

The 12 no votes were all DFLers:

Andrew Falk, Tim Faust, Gail Kulick Jackson, Al Juhnke, Tina Liebling, Paul Marquart, Kim Norton, Jeanne Poppe, Roger Reinert, Tom Rukavina, Linda Slocum and Paul Thissen.

You can read more about the GAMC debate and whether Gov. Pawlenty is willing to accept federal funds from the newly enacted federal health care law by clicking on this story.

Pawlenty asks Minnesota's Attorney General to review legality of federal health bill

Posted at 4:44 PM on March 22, 2010 by Tom Scheck (12 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature, Tim Pawlenty

Gov. Pawlenty sent a letter to Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson requesting she review the legality of the federal health care bill.

Several Republican state attorneys general have said that they will file lawsuits blocking the implementation of the federal health care bill. Pawlenty, wants Swanson, a Democrat, to also consider a lawsuit.

Specifically, Pawlenty raised questions over the legality of requiring individuals to buy health insurance:

"The legislation passed by Congress requires individuals to purchase health insurance or pay a fine. Such a sweeping federal mandate has never before been enacted," Pawlenty wrote.

I called Swanson's office but haven't head back yet. Swanson's spokesman Ben Wogsland didn't call me back but issued a brief statement:

The legislation in question still has to be signed by the President and reconciliation has yet to be passed by the Senate. The individual mandate does not go into effect until 2014. Our Office has not yet read and analyzed the 2,400 page bill that passed the House yesterday. The Attorney General's Office operates in the legal arena and we are not going to make any legal comments until we have had the opportunity to review the 2,400 page bill.

Update: One important point - Pawlenty is making this as a request and can't compel Swanson to take action since the two are separately elected constitutional officers

MPR talked with several constitutional lawyers in January to see whether the mandate is unconstitutional. You can read that story here.

Comment on this post

That didn't take long...

Posted at 12:41 PM on March 22, 2010 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann introduced legislation today to repeal the health care overhaul bill that passed last night. President Obama hasn't even signed the bill into law yet.

Here's Bachmann's statement:

"It's no secret, President Obama and Democrat leaders have ignored the will of the people and have chosen to ram through their trillion-dollar health care bill despite the American people's overwhelming objection to it.

"It's future generation, our children and grandchildren who will pay the price for our government's arrogance and recklessness, and the American people won't ever forget the irresponsible actions of this Administration and Democratic Majority. After all, government answers to the people, not the other way around. I'm asking my colleagues to join me in repealing this monstrosity of a bill."

###

Meanwhile, the Democratic leaning group, Americans United for Change, is running an ad criticizing Bachmann for voting against the bill:

Comment on this post

React to health care vote

Posted at 10:57 PM on March 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck (7 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature, Tim Pawlenty, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

Minnesota's Congressional delegation, Gov. Pawlenty and others are weighing in today on the House passage of the health care overhaul bill. Here's how Minnesota's delegation voted.

Here are the written statements:

DFL Rep. Tim Walz:

"Middle class families in southern Minnesota want to visit their doctor and get the care they need without insurance company or government control. They want hassle free coverage they can count on and they want peace of mind knowing that if they get sick, they will not have to worry about insurance companies dropping them.

For the past three years, I have traveled around southern Minnesota hearing from folks about how we can improve our health care system. Those who have shared their stories with me are honest, hard working people. They do not want a handout or special treatment. They just want a fair deal. One of those folks is Sheila Wieser. When Sheila's son, Michael, got sick with a rare liver disease, she just wanted to be able to get him the care he needed to get well. Michael was kicked off his parents insurance when he graduated college and because he had a pre-existing condition, no insurance company would give him coverage. By the time Sheila was able to get Michael any help at all, his disease was too advanced and he died. No mother should ever have to experience that and if this legislation had been passed years ago, Michael might still be with us today.

I also voted for this legislation because it is the fiscally responsible thing to do. Since first coming to Congress, I have actively worked to find ways to reduce the skyrocketing, long-term federal debt. Let me be clear: We cannot tackle our debt without addressing the out of control cost of health care and we cannot rebuild a strong, vibrant economy while businesses are strangled financially and forced to choose between cutting salaries or health insurance for their employees. I cannot in good conscience pass on a skyrocketing debt and a broken health care system for our children and our grandchildren to deal with, they deserve better than kicking the can down the road for another day.

I am particularly proud of the pay for results provisions we fought for in this legislation. This is a patient-centered provision that is about using a market-based, business solution to provide high quality, low cost health care. Every single day, Mayo Clinic is an example of how health care should be practiced in this country and I was proud of our efforts to ensure that doctors are paid for the quality of care that you get and not just the number of treatments and procedures you go through.

This legislation is not perfect. I have often said health care reform is a journey, not a destination. As we move forward, I will work closely with doctors, nurses, hospital, employers, small businesses and southern Minnesotans to ensure that this legislation is implemented in a fair, common sense way."

GOP Rep. John Kline:

With these votes, Congress has failed its most fundamental responsibility of representing the American people. Citizens descended on the U.S. Capitol this weekend to implore their elected officials to reject this legislation - yet their voices were ignored. Governors are lining up to challenge the mandates that will be imposed on the citizens of their states - yet their pleas have gone unheard. Republicans and Democrats alike stood up to vote no - yet backroom deals and a thirst for government control won the day.

"Time and time again, Republicans called on the majority to scrap this government takeover of health care and student lending and embrace commonsense, bipartisan reforms. And each time, majority leadership rejected our offers and stubbornly insisted on their own partisan plan. Today will go down in history as a day when the balance of power shifted away from the people and their voices were silenced. The American people will not forget the way these votes were cast.

"Today's votes were a loss for the American people, but the battle is far from over. We must now begin working to undo the government takeover of health care and replace it with meaningful reforms that will finally bring down health care costs."
# # #

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen:

"Today, the House of Representatives narrowly approved a costly, partisan bill the American people have said loud and clear they do not want. My constituents, by a margin of over three-to-one, have said they do not like this plan -- and with good reason.

This bill represents a major expansion of the federal government's role in health care. It creates new entitlement spending of nearly $1 trillion, slashes over $500 billion from Medicare in order to spend it elsewhere, allows the IRS to impose new fines on Americans who don't purchase 'acceptable' coverage, fails to protect veterans' care and imposes a new $20 billion tax on life-saving medical technology innovations.

Amazingly, this bill also does not adequately address the fundamental problem of rising health care costs for individuals, families and small businesses. Instead, premiums are likely to continue rising under this plan, while new taxes and penalties will make it even harder for small businesses to create jobs. This is the exact wrong approach.

There is no question we can and should reform health care. But doing so with a massive government expansion that will burden future generations - all without fundamentally addressing the number one problem of rising costs - is both reckless and wrong. The American people need and deserve better."
###

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison:

"For me, this legislation represents progress toward universal health care for all Americans," Ellison stated. "Every landmark piece of legislation had a beginning. Women's rights did not end with the 19st Amendment; Civil Rights did not end with the signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act; Social Security enacted in 1935, and Medicare in 1965, did not begin as we know them today. So too is it with this health care reform bill. It is a beginning - and an important one," Ellison said

"When 40,500 uninsured Fifth District residents have health care coverage - that is change. When 9,700 Fifth District residents with pre-existing conditions are no longer denied coverage - that is change. When 57,000 Fifth District young adults can obtain coverage on their parents' insurance plans - that is change. When insurance coverage for 358,000 Fifth District residents is improved - that is change, and when the cost of uncompensated care for hospitals and other health care providers is reduced by $101 million - that is positive change." the Congressman stated.

"I have long been an ardent advocate of the single payer health care system and a robust public option, however I wholeheartedly support this bill as a foundation. And when thirty-two million more Americans have health insurance it is a good beginning. At the same time, when $1.3 trillion in deficit spending (accumulated over the past eight years) is reduced, it is a good start."

"I look forward to enthusiastically casting my yes vote for this historic beginning in American health care," Ellison concluded. ###

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann:

"On August 13, 1800, Thomas Jefferson wrote the following:

"'Our country is too large to have all its affairs directed by a single government. Public servants at such a distance, and from under the eye of their constituents, must, from the circumstance of distance, be unable to administer and overlook all the details necessary for the good government of the citizens, and the same circumstance, by rendering detection impossible to their constituents, will invite the public agents to corruption, plunder and waste. And I do verily believe, that if the principle were to prevail, of a common law being in force in the United States..., it would become the most corrupt government on the earth...What an augmentation of the field for jobbing, speculation, plundering, office-building, and office-hunting would be produced by an assumption of all the State powers into the hands of the General Government.'

"Poignant words, and as our federal government expands its grip over one-sixth of our nation's economy with the passing of this legislation, maybe now President Obama and Speaker Pelosi will finally take the time to find out what's in it.

"This past year, the President and Democratic leaders in Congress gathered in back rooms away from the American people and twisted arms to get just enough votes through deals and handouts to pass their legislation. They broke promises of open debate and transparency, and instead of working with Republicans and implementing common sense reforms that wouldn't break the bank, they went it alone and spent more money we just don't have.

"Future generations will pay the price for our government's arrogance and recklessness, and the American people won't ever forget the irresponsible actions of this Administration and Congress. After all, government answers to the people, not the other way around, and the fight for the soul of this nation continues on."
###

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar:

"I have evaluated the issues of health care for 35 years and very intensively for this past year as Congress has worked on the major reform legislation. The fine points of this health care bill have now been defined, and in my judgment, the balance of benefits are in favor of this bill. That will benefit the people of the 8th congressional district and the American people.

This bill will assure that no one's current health care can be dropped. No one will be forced out of their health care they now hold. No one will be denied because of a previously existing condition. No one can have their health insurance dropped because of lifetime caps or be denied when they need their health insurance the most. People will be able to retain health insurance if they change jobs.

For seniors, the legislation closes the doughnut hole that has existed for five years, which will save seniors thousands of dollars in prescription drug costs. Young adults will be able to stay on their parents' policy until age 26.

This bill represents a massive step forward in quality health care for the people of the 8th congressional district. Included in this legislation is a major improvement in the Medicare reimbursement formula. The longstanding geographic disparity in Medicare has severely disadvantaged Northland health care providers, and the reimbursement gap will be closed as we move toward payment parity with the rest of the country.
Regarding the lingering issue of abortion, I am confident that abortion will not be funded in this legislation. Current law dating back to October 1979 (Public Law 96-86) has contained a federal prohibition on the use of federal funds for abortion in community health centers. Conscious clause protections that have existed in the past will remain in effect and in the future, and the legislation prohibits the use of federal tax credits and cost-sharing assistance to pay for abortion."
###

Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty:

"Democrats rejected needed, common sense reforms in favor of an overreaching, extraordinarily expensive, government-centric plan that gives more and more control to an already bloated and bankrupt federal government."

"The passage of federal health care reform is not just an historic step forAmericans everywhere, it also has monumental consequences for the state of Minnesota."

"Iam proud to stand with the more than 1,000 other state legislators from around our
great nation who worked together over the past year to support health care reform. State legislators have long been on the front lines of the battle for better, more accessible, and more affordable health care for their constituents, and our leadership was critical to making this victory for American families possible."

Comment on this post

House passes historic health care bill

Posted at 10:03 PM on March 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping health care overhaul bill that provides health care coverage to tens of millions of Americans and place stricter standards on health insurance companies.

Here's how Minnesota's delegation voted (full Roll Call here):

Democrats Voting Yes:
Tim Walz, Betty McCollum, Keith Ellison and Jim Oberstar

Democrats Voting No:
Collin Peterson

Republicans Voting No:
John Kline, Erik Paulsen and Michele Bachmann

Comment on this post

Bachmann closer to the conservative talk show trifecta for the week

Posted at 1:21 PM on March 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is making a full court press in her opposition to the federal health care overhaul bill. Last night, Bachmann appeared on Fox's Hannity to discuss the bill. Her office says she'll appear on Fox's Glenn Beck (4pm Central) later today.

Paging Rush Limbaugh!

Comment on this post

MN Tea Party not backing candidates

Posted at 3:25 PM on March 17, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Minnesota Tea Party announced today that the organization won't be backing candidates from either party. Instead, the organization says it wil focus on issues. One side note, many Tea Party activists have been moving through the delegate process in the Republican Party. Here's the release:

Minnesota Tea Party Patriots' Antoinette "Toni No Bologny" Backdahl announced today, "We are not endorsing candidates from any party. We decided to focus on issues and once educated on both sides of the arguments, let the people decide for themselves", said Mrs. Backdahl.

Many people have been asking what the Tea Party is going to do concerning elections and candidates. "After many strong debates, we decided to NOT endorse candidates" said Mrs. Backdahl.

Minnesota Tea Party Patriots' mission is to attract, educate, organize, and mobilize our fellow citizens to secure public policy consistent with our three core values: Fiscal Responsibility, Constitutionally Limited Government and Free Markets.

The best way to describe the tea party movement is to say it is an issue based movement, similar to First Amendment Rights or Second Amendment Rights. It is outside of the political/election process and attracts people from all political parties.

"America was designed to have Americans participate in the process of its governance. It is our civic duty, if we fail to show up, we fail our country!. Congress passes legislation is does not write or read, someone has to pay attention." said Mrs. Backdahl.

Barney Frank to speak at Humphrey Day Dinner

Posted at 3:51 PM on March 15, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

The Minnesota DFL Party announced today that Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank will speak at this year's Humphrey Day Dinner. Here's a statement from DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez:

"Through almost three decades in Congress, Chair Frank has been an outspoken and fearless advocate for Democratic principles. He has been an energetic advocate for civil rights, and was the second openly gay member of Congress. On the House Financial Services Committee, which he now chairs, he has championed consumer protection and reform of Wall Street. He has worked to provide affordable rental housing for his constituents, and been a strong supporter of health-insurance reform. We look forward to a lively presentation from a principled and spirited leader."

The Humphrey Day Dinner will be held on May 8th at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Bachmann speaks at Tea Party rally

Posted at 6:24 PM on March 13, 2010 by Tom Scheck (5 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann spoke at a "Kill the bill" rally at the Minnesota State Capitol this morning. You can listen to her speech here Listen

Meanwhile, the DFL Party is criticizing Bachmann for campaigning outside of Minnesota's 6th District (which she represents):

Michele Bachmann was once again outside her district again afternoon, hosting a Tea Party in St. Paul to preserve the health-insurance companies' status quo while people in the sixth district have to deal with skyrocketing health-care costs. But Representative Bachmann's absenteeism extends to more than just her infrequent visits home -- she hasn't been showing up for work in Washington, DC either. This weekend's rally comes on the heels of last week's report in The Washington Post, which laid out the 114 votes Bachmann has missed in the current Congress alone. Michele Bachmann doesn't bother to show up for work, while her constituents struggle to find work and her district leads the state in foreclosures rates.

Bachmann wasn't the only Republican politician to appear at the rally. Rep. John Kline also spoke at the rally. Gubernatorial hopefuls Tom Emmer and Marty Seifert were also in attendance.

Thanks to MPR's Jess Mador for getting me the tape. You can read her story about the rally here.

Comment on this post

Palin will host Bachmann event in Minneapolis

Posted at 12:14 PM on March 11, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann announced details today of her re-election campaign fundraiser with former Alaska governor Sarah Palin.

The event is scheduled for April 7 at the Hilton Hotel in Minneapolis. A private reception and photo opportunity will take place at 4:30 p.m. There's a general reception at 5:00 p.m. Dinner is at 6:00 p.m. The announcement lists the honorary hosts as Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Senator Norm Coleman and Congressmen John Kline and Erik Paulsen.

There are also plans for a rally, but no details were provided.

Comment on this post

For your viewing pleasure...

Posted at 8:57 PM on March 5, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Here's a look at this weekend's public policy shows...

TPT's Almanac:
State Senators Amy Koch and Ellen Anderson debate nuclear power... Dr. John Najarian looks back at a remarkable career of surgery... and MPR's Bob Collins sits in on our media panel.

KSTP's At Issue:
A focus on our SurveyUSA poll numbers with David Strom...Javier Morillo_Alicea...Blois Olson...Sarah Janecek. Annette Meeks and Ember Reichgott Junge. Plus a special report on enforcing_the "texting and driving" ban.

WCCO's Sunday Morning:
Sen. Al Franken, DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar, and Erik Anderson with the Single Man Book.

Capitol Report:
Minnesota's budget deficit drops to $994Million dollars. MMB Commissioner Tom Hanson and Senate Asst. Majority Leader Tarryl Clark discuss with Julie Bartkey the different perspectives on how to wipe away the debt, and set the state for long term policy changes. Several bills on gender neutral marriage make it to committees in the House and Senate. Rep. Ryan Winkler details his bill and why he chose to sign on. Sen. Warren Limmer gives the opposing viewpoint.

Meet the Press: Sec. Sebelius, Sen. Hatch, Harold Ford,
This Week: Sec. Sebelius, Sen. McConnell
Face the Nation: Sens. Bayh, Graham; Dan Balz, Jim VandeHei
State of the Union: Tom DeLay; Reps. Baird, Van Hollen
Fox News Sunday: Mitt Romney; Reps. Adler, Altmire

Party primary moving to August

Posted at 11:23 AM on March 1, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

The Minnesota Senate unanimously passed a bill that would move the party primary from September to August. The Senate decided to concur with a House bill rather than negotiate their differences in a conference committee. Governor Pawlenty has indicated that he'll sign the bill.

Here are the important dates to remember:

Candidate filing period: May 18 - June 1
Absentee balloting period for primary: June 25 - Aug. 9
Pre-primary campaign finance reports due: July 26
State Primary: August 10
State Canvassing Board meeting for primary: August 17
Absentee balloting period for general election: Sept. 17 - Nov. 1
Pre-general campaign financial reports due: Oct. 25
General election - Nov. 2

Super Saturday

Posted at 12:30 PM on February 27, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, MN Legislature

Today is a big day for 2010 candidates. Republicans meet today to select more than 800 delegates BPOU conventions across the state. There are also more than twenty DFL local party conventions going on today.

There are plenty of reports on convention activity on Twitter.

Those who want to follow the GOP contests should follow the hash tag #supersaturday.

Those who want to follow the DFL side should follow the hash tag #goDFL.

Today is critical for many of the campaigns to get their key supporters to the State Party conventions but it won't determine the final outcome. Since it's unlikely that none of the candidates for governor in either party will attract the needed sixty percent support, the hand to hand combat at the state party conventions in April will determine the endorsed candidates.

Comment on this post

Do endorsements matter?

Posted at 2:22 PM on February 26, 2010 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Today, Republican Tom Emmer announced that two well known Republican insiders are backing his campaign. Former GOP Congressman Vin Weber and national committeeman Brian Sullivan both say Emmer is best suited to bring together the Republican Party.

The endorsement comes just days after a group of state lawmakers announced they were supporting him.

"Every one of these makes a difference in terms of the sphere of influence that these people have," Emmer said. He added that Weber and Sullivan bring significant weight to his campaign.

"They bring more than just their name, they bring their history and their reputation and their involvement as leaders within Minnesota the Republican Party."

But here's a question: Do endorsements matter?

For example, Emmer announced the day before precinct caucuses that former U.S. Sen. Rod Grams was backing his campaign. The announcement received some fanfare in Duluth (and on this blog) but may not have delivered any votes, even in Grams' own BPOU.

Grams attended the Isanti County BPOU with his wife. He didn't seek to become a delegate, but I'm told that he was wearing an Emmer hockey jersey and worked the room hard for the Delano Republican. His wife, Chris, did seek to become a delegate but wasn't elected. In fact, Republican Marty Seifert picked up 16 delegates, Emmer picked up one, and one delegate is undecided.

I understand that the Republican endorsement for governor is neck and neck between Seifert and Emmer and every vote counts.

Are you, or have you ever been influenced by a candidate endorsement?

Comment on this post

Palin to raise money for Bachmann and MNGOP

Posted at 4:34 PM on February 25, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Sarah Palin's April visit to Minnesota will do more than benefit GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's campaign. Minnesota Republican Party Chair Tony Sutton said Palin will also be raising money for the state party.

FEC reports show that a committee dubbed Minnesota - Bachmann Victory Committee was formed to raise money for Bachmann's congressional campaign and the MNGOP. When asked about the committee, Sutton said it was formed because Palin, the former governor of Alaska and John McCain's running mate in 2008, will hold a joint fundraiser for the MNGOP and Bachmann on April 7th.

Bachmann announced in January that Palin will campaign for her that day but didn't provide any other details. A spokesman for Bachmann didn't immediately provide information about the newly formed campaign committee.

These types of committees aren't unusual and are formed when big name fundraisers hold events for more than one group.

Comment on this post

Franken pushes for health care passage

Posted at 5:21 PM on February 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House, U.S. Senate

MPR's Jess Mador reports today that DFL Sen. Al Franken attended a rally of labor activists, Democrats and progressives in support of a health care overhaul bill moving through Congress. The rally, organized by Take Action Minnesota, is meant to send a message to Congress that something should be done on health care soon. The White House is negotiating with House and Senate leaders to come up with some sort of health care overhaul bill.

Franken, who has pushed for the House to pass the Senate bill and then pass a public option through reconciliation, said pushing the legislation currently being debated in Congress is better than starting over from scratch.

"I don't want to oversell this. I don't want to say that your premiums after going up and up and up are suddenly going to go down. But if we don't do anything, it's going to go that way and what we need to do is bend it this way to bring down the growth in the cost of health care."

You can listen to Franken's full speech here: Listen

There were several people outside the rally protesting the health care bills. They held signs saying "Stop Obamacare" and complained that government spending is getting out of control.

Comment on this post

Bachmann's speech to CPAC

Posted at 12:42 PM on February 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachman gave a long-winding speech to CPAC that focused on how the sacrifices that the nation's forefathers made for the country. She also got a loud ovation when she showed a picture of the George W. Bush billboard that said "Miss Me yet" and railed against the federal deficit.

You can listen to her speech here: Listen

One of Bachmann's DFL opponents, Maureen Reed, issued this statement on Twitter criticizing Bachmann:

Speaking at CPAC may raise Bachmann's national profile, but it will not help the people who are hurting across this district. We need change

Pawlenty and Bachmann speak at CPAC today

Posted at 6:59 AM on February 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Pawlenty travel, Tim Pawlenty

Gov. Pawlenty, who appears to be preparing a run for president in 2012, is scheduled to speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference at 9am Central. Anti-tax crusader Grover Norquist will introduce him.

Pawlenty is also on a 2012 straw poll of conservative activists. Results will be announced on Saturday.

Meanwhile...

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is scheduled to speak to the group at 11:20am Central. Ed Morrissey, with HotAir.com, will introduce her.

You can watch the speeches live here.

Red Bulls to get overtime pay in March

Posted at 8:41 PM on February 16, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

GOP Rep. John Kline says the overtime pay for the Red Bulls will be delivered between March 15th and March 19th. You can read the release from Kline's office here:

WASHINGTON - Minnesota Congressman John Kline today welcomed news from the Office of the Secretary of Defense that long overdue bonus pay will be received by members of the Minnesota National Guard by March 19. The announcement follows Kline's Feb. 3 questioning of Defense Secretary Robert Gates regarding when the 2,500 Minnesota soldiers whose deployments to Iraq were extended involuntarily would receive their long overdue bonus pay.

"I am pleased to see decisive action to rectify this unacceptable situation," said Kline, a 25-year veteran of the Marine Corps, and a member of the House Armed Services Committee. "Our brave men and women in uniform can finally have confidence that they will receive the benefits they have earned."

According to the announcement by OSD, the majority of soldiers still in service will receive their pay via electronic remittance on March 15-19. The majority of those who have already left the service will receive a check issued during the same period.

For two years Congressman Kline has joined Minnesota Congressional delegation colleagues in bipartisan, bicameral efforts asking the Department of Defense to expedite bureaucratic delays. In October, the national defense bill was signed into law with a provision supported by Congressman Kline to authorize funding for the PDMRA benefits and fix the bureaucratic glitch.

Earlier this month, Kline pressed Sec. Gates for answers regarding when the Minnesota National Guard soldiers will receive their overdue pay. "None of them have received a dime, not a single dime. My question is when can these soldiers expect to receive these payments," Kline asked during the hearing. "I will tell you this is a gigantic issue in Minnesota. They've been deployed multiple times. Some of them are just now coming back, the Red Bulls from Iraq. Right now some of them are expected to be deployed in 2011 and they've been told now for years that they have this money coming to them and nothing is there.

"It is outrageous that some of our Minnesota troops have been forced to wait so long to receive their benefits."

In his fourth term in Congress, Kline is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and the top Republican on the House Education and Labor Committee.

# # #

Kline gets a White House invite

Posted at 5:55 PM on February 12, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, U.S. House

The Washington Post is reporting that GOP Rep. John Kline was one of 10 Republican members of Congress to be invited to attend President Obama's health care summit:

The White House on Friday issued its formal invitation to Republicans to attend a health care summit on Feb. 25, calling it "the next step" in the process of reforming the country's broken health insurance system.

In a letter to lawmakers, Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said the half-day meeting at Blair House will include the top congressional leaders in both parties and the ranking members in committees that deal with health care.

I'm checking with Kline's office to see if he'll attend.

Here's a response from Troy Young, Kline's communications director:

Mr. Kline expects to attend if it's going to be productive. He hopes the White House is more interested in facilitating a worthwhile dialogue about solutions than in partisan theater.

But there are still unanswered questions about who will be included in this summit and whether Democrats are serious about sitting down with a blank piece of paper to develop commonsense, bipartisan health care reforms. Mr. Kline would certainly participate in a serious attempt to press the reset button and scrap the government takeover of health care. It remains to be seen whether that's what is being proposed.

Comment on this post

Kline gets a GOP challenger

Posted at 12:25 PM on February 10, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. John Kline will be getting a primary challenge this year. The Faribault Daily News says Mahamoud Wardere, who calls himself "An anti-war GOP candidate who is an immigrant from Somalia, an African-American, too, and Muslim" will challenge Kline.

Wardere spent the past six years working as a community liaison for former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman.

A spokesman for Kline says Kline "fully intends to run for reelection."

You can read more here.

Update: The story doesn't specify that Wardere will run in a primary but he sent MPR News an e-mail stating a primary run. The Pi Press says he'll abide by the GOP endorsement.

McCollum to hold townhall on Saturday

Posted at 1:26 PM on February 5, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum will hold a town hall meeting on Saturday to discuss issues "being debated in Congress." Here are the details:

Congresswoman McCollum to Join Senator Rummel and Representative Gardner at Local Town Hall Meeting

St. Paul, MN - Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) will join State Senator Sandy Rummel and State Representative Paul Gardner for community town hall meeting in Shoreview this Saturday, February 5. Congresswoman McCollum will provide an update on the issues being debated in Congress.

Event: Community Town Hall Meeting in District 53A
Speakers: Congresswoman McCollum, State Senator Sandy Rummel, State Representative Paul Gardner
Date: Saturday, February 6, 2009 at 9:00 am
Location: Shoreview Community Center, Room 202/203, 4580 Victoria Street N, Shoreview

For your viewing pleasure...

Posted at 6:00 PM on January 29, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Here's a look at who will be on this weekend's public policy shows...

TPT's Almanac:
Mary Lahammer preview's the upcoming legislative session... our media panel picks the best of local online media... and we meet Elizabeth Kautz of Burnsville who is the new head of the U.S. Conference of Mayors

WCCO Sunday Morning with Esme Murphy:
Democratic gov candidate Margaret Anderson Kelliher, GOP Rep. John Kline, I-P gubernatorial candidate Joe Repya and political expert Larry Jacobs.

KSTP's At Issue:
Tarryl Clark to talk about her Congressional race and the political panel.

Capitol Report:
2010 is a major election year in Minnesota, and Chair Ann Rest of State and Local Gov't Oversight Committee discusses her bill to set guidelines for Ranked Choice Voting in local elections. Republican Chris Gerlach, believes RCV is unconstitutional and explains why to moderator Julie Bartkey. Senator Mee Moua is the first Hmong American to be elected to the legislature. She gives her Inside Perspective on living the American Dream.

ABC's This Week:
Guest anchor Barbara Walters interviews Senator-elect Scott Brown, R-Mass.

CBS Face the Nation:
CBS' "Face the Nation" - Govs. Haley Barbour, R-Miss., Ed Rendell, D-Pa., and Jennifer Granholm, D-Mich.; Sen. John Thune, R-S.D.

CNN's State of the Union:
Topics: GOP Response to SOTU; Economy. Guest: Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Minority Leader. Topic: Presidents State of the Union. Guest: Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D) Michigan.

NBC's Meet the Press:
Topic: President Obama's Agenda -- the Economy and Health Care. Guest: David Axelrod, Senior White House Adviser. Topic: The Republican Party's Agenda. Guest: Rep. John Boehner (R-OH), House Republican Leader.

Fox News Sunday:
Sens. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and Evan Bayh, D-Ind.; Reps. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

Paulsen raised $1.2 million in 2009

Posted at 12:12 PM on January 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen reports raising $1.2 million in 2009. He also reports having $943,923 cash on hand. Here's the release from Paulsen's camp:

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN - Today, Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) announced that he has raised $274,863 for the fourth quarter of 2009. The numbers reveal yet another strong quarter for Paulsen, who is a freshman member of Congress representing the Western Suburbs of the Twin Cities Metro Area.

"I continue to be honored and blessed with the opportunity to serve the people of Minnesota's Third District in Congress," said Paulsen. "Minnesotans are tired of Washington's spending habits and want their representatives to be results-oriented and deliver on their promises."

Since beginning his first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Paulsen has been noted for his work on fiscal responsibility, government transparency, job creation, and pursuing bipartisan solutions to solve our nation's largest problems.

To date, Paulsen has raised $1,199,679 and has $943,923 cash on hand.

Comment on this post

Bachmann pulls out of National Tea Party Convention

Posted at 11:29 AM on January 28, 2010 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann announced today that she will not be attending next month's national Tea Party Convention in Nashville, TN. There have been some concerns (written about in the New York Times) that the group organizing the event is for profit and is charging too much for an average person to attend. Congresswoman Bachmann's spokesman Dave Dziok issued this statement describing why she isn't attending:

Due to conflicting advice on whether Representative Bachmann's participation in the upcoming Tea Party Nation Convention would be in line with the Committee on Standards, Congresswoman Bachmann has decided not to participate in the event. There is uncertainty about how any proceeds from the event may be used, and we must err on the side of caution. Some will want to portray her withdrawal as a repudiation of the Tea Party Movement, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Congresswoman Bachmann remains encouraged by all Americans, regardless of political party, who are concerned about this nation's future and dwindling prosperity, and continues to be inspired their passion.

Comment on this post

Clark kicks off 6th district campaign

Posted at 11:16 AM on January 28, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, has officially launched the 6th district congressional campaign that she started last summer.

She held a kickoff event today at the State Capitol. Clark is out to unseat Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann in the fall, but first she'll have to win a DFL primary. The other DFL candidate, Maureen Reed, claims she has a better chance to attract 6th district independent voters. But Clark disagreed.

"I'm the one that's in office," Clark said. " And I've proven that you can win in a tough district where you have to bring Democrats, Republicans and independents together. And that's what we've done time over time."

Clark didn't want to talk about Reed. She said her attention is on Bachmann, who Clark claims isn't fighting for the 6th district.

"While I eliminated my own office mailing budget, she spent more than $100,000 on taxpayer funded mailings, more than any other representative in Minnesota, to send self-promoting mail to people who don't even live in the district, who don't even live in the state," Calrk said.

A state Republican party official said Clark has been on the wrong side of every tax and spending issue in the Legislature. And he claimed Bachmann is the clear favorite to win a third term.

We'll have video of the Clark event once it's converted.

UPDATE

Maureen Reed's campaign manager, Jason Isaacson, responded to the Clark announcement with this statement:

The Maureen Reed campaign is energized and excited to see the 6th Congressional race come into full swing. In this race it is clear there is one candidate who can defeat Michele Bachmann. There is one candidate who has a path to victory. While both campaigns have shown an equal aptitude for fundraising, there is one candidate that is running her campaign the old fashion way without big-name endorsements; relying on hard work and grassroots politics. Maureen Reed is engaging the voters in a dialogue of hope and cooperation to find solutions to the problems that face the Sixth district. We welcome Clark and her six day tour across the district. For over 8 months now, Maureen has traveled the district from Stillwater to St Cloud, talking to voters about the issues that matter to them. Everywhere we've gone, we've gotten a tremendous response to our message and Maureen's background outside of politics.

We are also excited to announce that the first debate between the two DFL candidates will be held at Senate District 19's convention on February 20th. Maureen is a candidate with real world experience in health care, education, business and non-profits, and we're confident voters will see the difference once they have a chance to hear from her directly.

We also heard from Bachmann spokesman Dave Dziok, who refuted Clark's allegation about the mailing costs:

It looks like this is going to be one long year of smears, lies, half-truths, and gutter politics from the Democrats. Constituent outreach has always been a priority for Congresswoman Bachmann throughout her two terms in Congress, and will continue to be a priority going forward.

Comment on this post

Clark releases campaign fundraising numbers

Posted at 11:03 AM on January 26, 2010 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, announced today that she raised $293,953 in the fourth quarter of 2009 for her 6th district congressional campaign.

A campaign news release said the number of donors for the quarter were 2,906. Clark's total for the the year topped $600,000. She ended 2009 with just under $389,000 cash on hand.

Clark is one of two DFL candidates trying to unseat Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Bachmann has not yet released her campaign report. The other DFLer, Maureen Reed, released her numbers last week.

For your viewing pleasure...

Posted at 4:34 PM on January 22, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Here's a look at the rundowns for this weekend's public policy shows.

TPT's Almanac:
This week on Almanac we visit with former U. S. Senator Norm Coleman about his decision not to run for Governor, a look ahead to our stormy weekend with Paul Douglas, and Mary Lahammer gives us the latest scorecard in the Governor's race.

KSTP's At Issue:
Joe Repya, who's running for governor as a member of the Independence Party.

WCCO's Sunday Morning with Esme Murphy:
Republican Tom Emmer, who's running for governor.
GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen
Polar explorer Will Steger

Capitol Report:
2010 is a major election year in Minnesota, and Chair Ann Rest of State and Local Gov't Oversight Committee discusses her bill to set guidelines for Ranked Choice Voting in local elections. Republican Chris Gerlach, believes RCV is unconstitutional and explains why to moderator Julie Bartkey. Senator Mee Moua is the first Hmong American to be elected to the legislature. She gives her Inside Perspective on living the American Dream.

ABC's "This Week" - White House senior adviser David Axelrod; Sens. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Jim DeMint, R-S.C.
CBS' "Face the Nation" - Sens. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Dick Durbin, D-Ill.
NBC's "Meet the Press" - White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett; Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.
CNN's "State of the Union" - Axelrod; Menendez; Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah.
"Fox News Sunday" - White House press secretary Robert Gibbs; Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas.

Gambling on the Vikings game...

Posted at 5:48 PM on January 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Pawlenty travel, Tim Pawlenty

Several Minnesota politicos are wagering with their Louisiana counterparts on this weekend's Vikings/Saints game.

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin are betting music.

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen is betting a Minnesota meal (walleye and wild rice) against GOP Rep. Steve Scalise's offer of a New Orleans meal (alligator sausage and blackened redfish, as well as a pot of seafood gumbo).

Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty and Lousiana Governor Bobby Jindal are also preparing a bet but are taking suggestions on their respective Facebook pages. Pawlenty asked on his Facebook Page which option is best:

1. Option 1:As much Lutefisk (whitefish soaked in lye) as he can eat?


2. Option 2:A Viking cooler filled with Minnesota's best microbrews?


3. Option 3:My favorite SPAM recipes (precooked meat from Austin, MN)?

Some of the responses to Pawlenty's request are funny including...

1. Al Franken
2. A chance to run as your vice-president
3. A letter of resignation.

Jindal has also been asking friends on his Facebook page what Pawlenty should wager. That posting even generated a TV story in New Orleans.

Some of the suggestions on Jindal's Facebook page include:

1. Money for education
2. Pawlenty singing Pants on the Ground!,
3. Jobs
4. Pawlenty singing Who Dat in a Saints jersey,
5. If the Vikes win, Pawlenty runs for pres in 2012. If the Saints win, Jindal runs
6. Have them endorse Bobby Jindal for President!

AP is also reporting that Pawlenty turned down an offer to join him in a Superdome suite for the game.

Update: DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Mary Landrieu (D-LA) also made a wager:

If the Vikings win, Landrieu will cook a Minnesota wild rice casserole and deliver it to Klobuchar's office while wearing a Brett Favre jersey for Minnesota constituents to enjoy. If the Saints win, Klobuchar will cook gumbo and deliver it to Landrieu's office while wearing a Drew Brees jersey for Louisiana constituents to enjoy.

RNC sends out mailers that look like Census forms

Posted at 3:26 PM on January 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

MPR's Tim Nelson and Elizabeth Dunbar report today that the Republican National Committee is sending out mailings that look like Census forms:

Some Minnesota residents have received surveys in the mail called the "2010 Congressional District Census," which asks for demographic information, opinions on issues, and checks made payable to the Republican National Committee.

Here's a link to the mailer. Here's the full story.

Reed raises $207,800 in 4th Qtr.

Posted at 10:58 AM on January 21, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democrat Maureen Reed announced that her campaign raised $207,800 in her race for Congress. The campaign says it raised a total of $574,600 raised in 2009. Reed's campaign says it ended the year with $388,000 cash on hand.

Reed is running for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District and intends to run in the DFL primary. DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark is also running in the race and intends to abide by the party endorsement. Clark hasn't released her fundraising numbers yet.

The winner of the primary will square off against GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann. Bachmann hasn't released her fundraising figures yet.

Palin to campaign for Bachmann

Posted at 8:38 AM on January 20, 2010 by Tom Scheck (4 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann announced today that former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin will visit Minnesota to campaign for her on April 7th. Palin, who was John McCain's running mate in 2008, is considered a candidate for the White House in 2012.

In a news release, Bachmann said Palin knows indepedent minded voters:

"There is absolutely no one more in tune with the hearts and minds of everyday Americans than Governor Palin, and I'm excited to welcome her back to our beautiful state this spring," Bachmann said.

No further details on Palin's visit have been released at this time.

Bachmann is expected to face a spirited challenge in her reelection run in 2010. The DCCC has listed Minnesota's 6th as one of its Races to Watch list. That means the political arm of House Democrats will likely put resources and effort into the race. State Sen. Tarryl Clark and physician Maureen Reed are vying to win the DFL nomination to face Bachmann.

Bachmann and Palin will both appear next month at the National Tea Party Convention in Tennessee.

This will be Palin's second trip to Minnesota in the past few months. In December, Palin signed her new book, Going Rogue, at the Mall of America.

Palin's visit to Minnesota fuels speculation that Bachmann could back Palin over Gov. Pawlenty in the race for the White House. In December, she wouldn't commit to either of them.

Here's the full release from Bachmann:

U.S. Representative Michele Bachmann (MN-06) announced today that former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin will come to Minnesota to assist Bachmann's re-election campaign on April 7, 2010.

"There is absolutely no one more in tune with the hearts and minds of everyday Americans than Governor Palin, and I'm excited to welcome her back to our beautiful state this spring," Bachmann said.

Both Governor Palin and Congresswoman Bachmann are well-known and respected conservative leaders whose bold and unwavering stances in defending the U.S. Constitution and commonsense approaches to issues like health care, taxes and government bailouts have attracted millions to their message.

"It didn't take the American people long to see through the extreme liberal agenda of President Obama and his Democratic allies in Congress," Bachmann said. "We saw American's frustration start in the form of tea party protests in states from coast to coast. It continued with the health care town halls throughout last summer. But we saw it come into full focus yesterday in conservative Scott Brown's victory in Massachusetts, taking back a Senate seat that was held by Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy for decades. The American people have spoken, and the momentum is clearly at the backs of conservatives heading into the 2010 elections."

Details about Governor Palin's visit will be released as they become available. In the coming weeks, please visit www.michelebachmann.com for more information.

Update: Tarryl Clark's spokesperson, Andrea Mokros, released this statement on Palin's visit:

It's clear that Michele Bachmann is more focused on building her national conservative celebrity credentials than doing the work that is needed by the 6th District. From her Tea Party travels to hobnobbing with the conservative celebrity set, she's more interested in her personal agenda than in doing the work so desperately needed by the residents of the 6th District - like addressing the state's highest unemployment rates and foreclosure rates right in her own district. Bringing in her friend Sarah Palin to help her pursue those big-money national donors is just one more example of where Bachmann's focus really is - and its clearly not on doing work for her constituents.

Update: Here's a statement from Reed's campaign:

It is not surprising that Michele Bachmann continues to court the extreme right of the national Republican Party, while neglecting the needs of the district. This is just another example of Bachmann trying to enhance her national star power rather than working on preventing home foreclosures, creating jobs, or offering solutions to address our healthcare crisis. Palin, like Bachmann, brings polarizing rhetoric, intent on dividing people instead of bringing them together.

Maureen Reed is not a politician and has spent years as a doctor and businesswoman working with Democrats, independents, and Republicans dialing down fear and anger to get things done. Maureen's only priority in Congress will be the interests of the 6th district- the issues of today are too important for our representatives in Congress to spend their time courting the spotlight.

Comment on this post

Ellison to hold hearing on foreclosure crisis on Saturday.

Posted at 5:03 PM on January 19, 2010 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison says he'll hold a hearing with Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Chair of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity, to discuss the foreclosure crisis. The hearing will be held on Saturday, January 23rd. Here's the news release:

Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity To Hold Twin Cities Hearing: "The Impact of the Foreclosure Crisis onPublic and Affordable Housing in the Twin Cities"

Washington, DC - Congressman Keith Ellison (D-MN) will join Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Chairwoman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity at a Subcommittee field hearing entitled, "The Impact of the Foreclosure Crisis on Public and Affordable Housing in the Twin Cities." The hearing will examine the foreclosure crisis and its negative impact on the affordable rental housing market.

The hearing will be held on Saturday, January 23rd, 2010 at 12:00 p.m. CST in Pohlad Hall at the Minneapolis Central Library.

The hearing is timely in light of the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) recent announcement of $2 billion in Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) grants to cities, states and non-profits across the country. Under HUD's grant announcement, the City of Minneapolis received nearly $19.5 million in NSP funding, while the City of St. Paul received $18 million.

"I am pleased that we made the case that the Twin Cities could use NSP funding to rehabilitate foreclosed homes and develop affordable housing," Ellison said. "These funds will bring jobs and housing for our communities most in need," Ellison added.

These dollars will be used to purchase and rehabilitate foreclosed housing; to create ownership as well as rental opportunities for low-and moderate-income households.
"I fought hard to secure nearly $6 billion in NSP funding for communities nationwide; I look forward to hearing from advocates and officials on how the Twin Cities are using these funds, and other resources and programs, to fight neighborhood blight and expand the stock of affordable housing," Chairwoman Waters stated.

Witnesses will include officials from HUD, local elected and appointed leaders, nonprofit stakeholders, housing advocates and service providers. Witnesses will be asked to describe the affordable housing challenges in the Twin Cities, explain the importance of NSP funds and provide recommendations to federal policymakers
"We craft good policy when we know the reality on the ground. Our subcommittee is excited to listen and learn from the witnesses' testimony," added Congressman Ellison.

Who: U.S. House Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity: Subcommittee Chairwoman Maxine Waters, Congressman Keith Ellison, and Witnesses to be announced.
What: Field Hearing: "The Impact of the Foreclosure Crisis on Public and Affordable Housing in the Twin Cities."
When: Saturday, January 23, 2010
12:00 P.M.
Where: Pohlad Hall, Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis,
MN, 55401

Comment on this post

Coleman taking hits while pondering run for governor

Posted at 9:04 PM on January 10, 2010 by Tim Pugmire (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman says he'll decide whether to run for governor soon, perhaps by the end of the month.

Coleman says a lot of people have encouraged him to run, but he's still reflecting on a potential candidacy.

Coleman is also hearing from Republicans who don't want to see him jumping into the race. Coleman spoke Saturday at a Senate District 15 GOP fundraiser in St. Cloud, and during the question and answer session, he got an earful from a critic who'd prefer a fresh face.

"I do not want to see you run," said Doug Blaine of St. Cloud. "A lot of people are going to come out who haven't been involved before. If we put you at the top of this ticket, that is spitting in the face of those people."

Coleman shot back, stressing that he was not there to make a campaign speech or debate anyone. He also said that he's heard other opinions.

"There are many people who have deep concerns about this state who have looked at the service I've provided and feel good about that service," Coleman said. "I hear your concern. I also listen to others. And ultimately, I'll pray about it, and I'll talk to my family about it, and then I'll figure out what to do."

Following his speech, Coleman talked about his critics. He said he wasn't phased by a harsh newspaper opinion piece, in which former state GOP party chairman Ron Eibensteiner urged him not to run.

"I think we'd all be better served if instead of attacking another candidate or potential candidate or individual, that we articulate on our positive vision and challenge the other side's vision," Coleman said. "If I were to step into this race, that's what I'd be doing."

Here's Coleman's speech. Listen

Here's the exchange between Blaine and Coleman. Listen

Here's a brief interview with Coleman following his speech. Listen

Comment on this post

Emily's list backs Clark for Congress

Posted at 1:05 PM on January 5, 2010 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Emily's List, a political action committee geared towards helping female candidates, is backing DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark for Congress. Clark is seeking the DFL endorsement in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District against Dr. Maureen Reed. The winner will face GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann in the general election.

In a news release, Emily's List President Ellen Malcolm said Clark can attract independent voters in the GOP leaning district:

"EMILY's List is proud to support Tarryl Clark in her campaign for U.S. Congress," said Ellen R. Malcolm, President of EMILY's List. "As a State Senator, Tarryl spearheaded major bipartisan initiatives on a number of issues, including education, veterans' affairs, domestic violence, consumer protection, and affordable housing. Her strong reputation of getting things done for Minnesota families is what sets her apart from her opponents and has enabled her to be such a powerful voice for her constituents."

"Tarryl is a proven vote getter in what is traditionally rough territory for Democrats," continued Malcolm. "Her candidacy puts this district in play and gives Democrats the best shot at picking up this swing-seat in November."

After winning in a Republican-leaning state Senate district in a 2005 special election and getting re-elected in 2006, Clark was chosen by her colleagues to serve as Assistant Majority Leader, the number two leadership position in the Minnesota State Senate -- recognition that speaks to her legislative skills. With her strong record of leadership and bipartisan legislative accomplishments, Tarryl has been dubbed a "rising star" by the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Clark has also won the backing of Women Winning, a Minnesota based PAC and the Women's Campaign Forum (a national group).

The backing of Emily's List will mean gobs of money for Clark. But the endorsement hasn't always garnered positive results at the ballot box for the group's candidates. Emily's List backed Ember Reichgott Junge and Patty Wetterling for Congress. They both lost those bids respectively. Update: Emily's List also backed Amy Klobuchar's successful senate run and Betty McCollum's successful run for Congress.

The backing means the 2010 race for Minnesota's 6th Congressional will be expensive. Bachmann has been a fundraising force on her own.

Franken to vote for bill

Posted at 11:05 AM on December 23, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. Senate, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Sen. Al Franken is scheduled to make his final comments on the Senate health care overhaul bill in the next hour. This morning, he spoke with MPR's Cathy Wurzer about the strengths of the bill:

Embed | Help

Copy and paste the HTML below to embed this audio onto your web page.

Audio player code:
<iframe title="minnesota_general_features_2009_12_23_health_20091223_64s_player" type="text/html" width="319" height="83" src="http://minnesota.publicradio.org/www_publicradio/tools/media_player/syndicate.php?name=minnesota/general/features/2009/12/23/health_20091223_64" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen></iframe>

sponsor:

Projection: Minnesota will lose a Congressional seat

Posted at 11:02 AM on December 23, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Census Bureau released its 2009 population estimates last night and it shows Minnesota gaining in population. But the state may not be growing quickly enough to keep all eight congressional seats.

How close is it?

Kimball Brace with Election Data Services said the estimates from July, 2009 show Minnesota keeping all eight seats. But he's predicting that Minnesota will lose the seat when the Census is taken next year. Brace is basing that estimate on the migration patterns of states: Listen

Minnesota's State Demographer is crunching his own numbers and should have something later today. I'll post his info here.

UPDATE:

Minnesota State Demographer Tom Gillaspy projects that Minnesota wil miss keeping its eight Congressional seats. He said Missouri will receive the last seat apportioned, with Minnesota missing by about 1,100 people.

In a news release, Gillaspy wrote that "the difference between Califorinia, Texas, Missiouri and Minnesota for the last three seats is about 2,200 people, which is well within the potential estimating error.

"Basically, this is a dead heat," Gillaspy said in the news release.

Bachmann leads DFL opponents in poll

Posted at 11:18 AM on December 22, 2009 by Tom Scheck (5 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Public Policy Polling (a Democratic affiliated pollster) says GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is leading her DFL opponents in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. The pollster also said Bachmann's standing is pretty solid at this point. "In what's shaping up to be a Republican year Bachmann's reelection looks pretty likely," pollster Tom Jensen said. Here's the meat of the poll from PPP:

53% of Bachmann's constituents approve of the job she's doing in Congress to 41% who disapprove. Her numbers certainly reflect her polarizing nature, with 86% of Republicans giving her good marks and 83% of Democrats saying they don't like her performance. But in a GOP leaning district and with a 51% approval from independents it all adds up to a pretty solid standing.

Tested against her potential 2010 opponents Bachmann leads Tarryl Clark 55-37 and Maureen Reed 53-37. The magnitude of those leads at this stage certainly has a lot to do with the Democrats' low name recognition, as 82% of voters don't know enough about Reed to have an opinion of her and 68% say the same of Clark. Bachmann's leads over them will probably get smaller as they become better known, but she is still over the 50% threshold considered safe for an incumbent.

UPDATE: Andrea Mokros, a spokesman for DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark'c campaign, issued this statement on the poll:

"It's early and the campaign has only just begun. In a district with the state's highest unemployment rates and the highest foreclosure rates, people need more than a 'polarizing' figure - almost half of those asked saying she's more interested in being a conservative leader than an advocate for them. Ask this question again when we've had a chance to cut through Congresswoman Bachmann's relentless FOX News spin and introduce ourselves to voters, and remind them of Bachmann's efforts to block jobs, much-needed reform, and take a pass on any and all efforts to deliver real results for the district.

Tarryl has already been elected, not just talking about but proving she can win over Democrats, Republicans and Independents. When people get to know Tarryl - this will be a race."

Comment on this post

Another Republican may enter the race in the 1st

Posted at 8:59 AM on December 22, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Rochester Post-Bulletin is reporting that local Republicans think Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce president John Wade is running for the 1st Congressional District seat. When asked, Wade told the paper that he won't rule anything out.

"I have a number of people that ask on a regular basis or encourage me to do so, and I am honored and humbled by those suggestions. Right now I am focusing on what I do, and that is focusing on building jobs in this community."

He'll be joining a growing list of Republican candidates who hope to challenge DFL Rep. Tim Walz. GOP state Rep. Randy Demmer, Jim Hagedorn of Blue Earth, retired military veteran Frank McKinzie, of Rochester; and former state Rep. Allen Quist, of St. Peter are also running..

Anti-abortion group targets Oberstar on health care bill

Posted at 1:25 PM on December 21, 2009 by Tom Scheck (2 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The group, known as The Pray in Jesus Name Project, is asking supporters to contact DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar and ask him to oppose the Senate health care bill. Several anti-abortion groups say the abortion language in the Senate deal isn't strong enough and are lobbying to defeat it.

The group, which sent the e-mail through Conservative Human Events e-mail list, is telling supporters that it will do the astro-turf lobbying on behalf of those who oppose the Senate bill:

Please select, sign, and WE WILL FAX your petition automatically to all 52 "Blue-Dog" House Democrats and/or all 100 Senators, right away (saving you hours of labor!) We've already sent approximately 310,000 faxes, can you help us reach 350,000?

GLIMMER OF HOPE? JUST A FEW OF THESE 37 CONGRESSMAN COULD STOP REID'S "HEALTH" CARE ENTIRELY, BUT ONLY IF WE TAKE ACTION NOW.

Despite the 60-40 vote in the Senate, we only need a handful of "Blue-Dog" House votes, and we can stop Harry Reid's "Health" Care bill entirely. Now that Sen. Ben Nelson has compromised and funded abortion, Congressman Bart Stupak (D-MI) is trying to lead 36 supposedly moderate democrats (and 1 Republican) against Reid's Obamacare, and against abortion funding. But Stupak needs your help. We've identified 37 moderates (names below) who voted WITH STUPAK to reduce abortion funding, but then also voted WITH PELOSI to pass socialism in H.R. 3692. We need a handful of these to switch votes and stand firm against Harry Reid's pro-abortion amendment to H.R. 3590. If they stand firm against abortion, the entire socialist health care bill can be stopped in its tracks.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar, a Democrat opposed to legalized abortion, is one of those the group is targeting.

I'm waiting for a response from Oberstar's office to see if it will have an impact on his vote.

Comment on this post

Klobuchar: "We had to get something done here."

Posted at 8:54 AM on December 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. Senate, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Democratic U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar defended the Senate health care bill on an early Sunday morning national talk show. Senate Democratic leadership announced a deal Saturday on a sweeping health care overhaul bill that would extend coverage to thirty million Americans and impose tougher regulations on health care companies to curb abusive practices. During an appearance on Fox News Sunday, Klobuchar responded to liberal critics, like Howard Dean, who want to kill the bill because it doesn't do enough.

"I disagree with him. I don't have that ability to just leave my Christmas presents and go home. We had to get something done here."

Klobuchar also said her focus was always on reducing costs.
Klobuchar was also asked to defend an abortion provision in the Senate bill that would allow states to prohibit abortion coverage in plans offered by insurance companies in the proposed exchange (More from AP here). Klobuchar was asked, as a pro-choice Senator, if she's "offended" by the provision. Here's her response:

"I am offended that so many people don't have insurance in this country. I'm offended that kids get sick and their parents are running around trying to get treatment for them because their parents are kicked off of their insurance. I am offended by that. Would I have preferred the original Senate language? Of course I would."

The Senate is expected to pass the bill early tomorrow morning. It will then have to be reconciled with a bill that already passed the House. Republicans argue that both bills spend too much and don't contain health care costs.

For your viewing pleasure..

Posted at 3:48 PM on December 18, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. Senate, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen and Former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton (now a gov candidate) will be on the local shows discussing the issues. DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar will be on the national airwaves (Fox News Sunday).

Here's a look at who will be on this weekend's public policy shows.

TPT's Almanac:

This week on Almanac Rep. Eric Paulsen is back from Washington D. C. and pays us a visit, our series on the Red Bull division's deployment continues with a look one family's holiday season spent apart and a couple of Harlem Globetrotters play some tricks on us.
Thanks... and happy holidays! No live shows for us the next two weeks.

KSTP's At Issue:
Former Senator Mark Dayton, candidate for Governor.
Political analysts Annette Meeks, Blois Olson, Cathie Hartnett and David Strom.

WCCO's Sunday Morning:
They didn't get back to me

Meet the Press: Axelrod, Dean
This Week: Axelrod, Sens. Durbin, Kyl
Face the Nation: Sens. Alexander, Snowe, Landrieu
State of the Union: Axelrod, Mayor Bloomberg, Gov. Schwarzenegger, Sen. Graham
Fox News Sunday: Sens. McCain, Conrad, Klobuchar

(H/T The Page)

Peterson: "I'm running for re-election..."

Posted at 3:47 PM on December 15, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson stomps on the speculation that he intends to retire at the end of this term. His office released a statement today saying he's running for reelection:

"I don't know why anyone would give credibility to these Republican rumors. I'm running for re-election and anyone who knows me knows that what I'm doing now is what I've always done. My paperwork is on file and in February I'll make an official announcement. I think political campaigns are already too long (and my constituents agree) and so I wait and do what I can to make mine as short as I can. This retirement rumor is being ginned up by the National Republican Party people in Washington, DC, who don't know anything about Minnesota's 7th District. As for why they are working so hard to circulate this baloney, I think they're just trying to stir things up because they don't have a candidate to run against me."

Teachers union backs Clark in 6th district

Posted at 12:31 PM on December 15, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Education Minnesota announced today that it's endorsing state Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, in her campaign for Congress in Minnesota's 6th district.

Clark is seeking the DFL endorsement to challenge incumbent Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Here's the Education Minnesota news release:

Education Minnesota, the state's largest labor union with a membership of 70,000 educators, has recommended Tarryl Clark for Congress in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. Clark is challenging Republican Rep. Michele Bachmann in November.

Clark's work ethic, her willingness to listen to educators and work with them, and her strong campaign make her the best candidate for the job, Education Minnesota President Tom Dooher said. Clark was among three contenders who were screened by a team of Education Minnesota members from around the 6th District. Bachmann did not fill out the required questionnaire to screen with the committee.

"Our members were impressed with Tarryl Clark's passion, her grasp of the issues and her commitment to working with us to benefit Minnesota's students," Dooher said. "We look forward to helping elect a representative from the 6th District who will fight for students, educators and public schools."

The recommendation from Education Minnesota also means endorsement of Clark by the PAC of one of the union's national affiliates - the National Education Association's Fund for Children and Public Education. Recommendation from the American Federation of Teachers' Committee on Political Education is pending.

Clark is a community activist and attorney who serves as the assistant majority leader of the Minnesota Senate. She holds a master's degree in educational counseling from Arizona State University, and received her law degree from William Mitchell College of Law. She worked as executive director for the Minnesota Community Action Association before winning a special election to the Senate in December 2005. She was re-elected to a full four-year term in the 2006 general election. She is married and has two children and lives in St. Cloud.

Ellison wants to know about the "civilian surge" in Afghanistan

Posted at 10:28 AM on December 10, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison got a chance to ask General Stanley McChrystal and U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan several questions during this morning's House Foreign Affairs Committee (which aired on C-SPAN3). Ellison, who has opposed a troop increase of any kind in Afghanistan, praised the efforts to increase the civilian presence in the country but wonders if the numbers are dwarfed by the military presence:

"It's like a 100 to 1. Is that the right ratio? Shouldn't we have, if we're trying to stabilize the country, harden the country so it's more impervious to these forces that would overthrow the government and hurt the country, shouldn't the proportion be a lot greater when it comes to civilian representation?"

The response from the testifiers was that numbers matter but it's how it's organized...

Listen to the exchange here: Listen

H/T MPR's Tim Nelson.

Ellison has concerns about Senate health care deal...

Posted at 8:30 AM on December 10, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison says he has concerns over a deal reached in the U.S. Senate that scraps the public option in the health care overhaul bill.

Ellison, who is a strong backer of the public option, talked about his concerns with MPR's Cathy Wurzer: Listen

Ellison will also have a chance to ask General Stanley McChrystal about the troop increase in Afghanistan. Ellison's office says he will have the chance to ask questions at a congressional hearing scheduled for this morning. Here are the details from Ellison's office:

Tune in to C-SPAN Thursday, December 10, 2009 9:30 AM Eastern/8:30 AM Central

Witnesses:

The Honorable Karl W. Eikenberry
U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan
U.S. Department of State

General Stanley A. McChrystal
Commander, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and Commander, U.S. Forces Afghanistan (USFOR-A)
U.S. Department of Defense

Klobuchar has concerns about Senate health care deal

Posted at 5:26 PM on December 9, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. Senate, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar released a statement today saying she has concerns about the deal reached last night that would replace the public option with a different plan. The bill would now allow Minnesotans over the age of 55 opt in to Medicare which would provide health care coverage for low income adults. Here's Klobuchar's statement:

While I appreciate the work being done to reach a consensus on health care reform, I have concerns about an early Medicare expansion plan. I want to review the response from the Congressional Budget Office, but am skeptical of expanding the Medicare program when it is scheduled to go in the red by 2017. Additionally, Medicare has historically underpaid states like Minnesota, and these geographic inequities in the reimbursement system must be fixed and I'm working to do that.

No word on whether DFL Sen. Al Franken supports the deal. He's scheduled to be on MPR's Midday program tomorrow morning at 11.

Oberstar backs Polymet

Posted at 3:49 PM on December 9, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar wrote a letter to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources urging the agency to support the Polymet mine proposal in northeastern Minnesota. Here are two portions of the letter:

"PolyMet has earned my support from the outset because of its responsible, innovative approach to nonferrous mining and processing; the DEIS does an excellent job of describing the many steps PolyMet will take to minimize environmental impacts..."

"...Over 100 years ago, Minnesotans began mining natural ore and then used ingenuity and determination to extend our mining and processing capabilities to include taconite. Responsible, non-ferrous mining represents the next chapter in the evolution of the Iron Range; it is time to begin this new era..."

Oberstar's letter comes on the same day that the DNR has a public meeting scheduled in Aurora. Another meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Blaine (see release here). You can read the DNR's Environmental Impact Statement on the project here.

Several environmental groups have lined up against the plan. The Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness say they have several problems with the proposal:

1. Water leaching from the waste rock piles is expected to be contaminated for up to 2,000 years
2. The West Mine Pit will overflow at Mine Year 65 (45 years after expected mine closure), contaminating the adjacent Partridge River with sulfates and heavy metals
3. Groundwater at the mine site is expected to exceed water quality standards
4. Due to structural instability, the tailings basin has a "low margin of safety"

Bachmann sits down with MinnPost

Posted at 8:53 AM on December 9, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann sat down with an interview with MinnPost. She talked about the situations in Afghanistan, Iran and why so many liberals despise her:

"I don't know. I'm a lovable little fuzz ball! I have no idea what they would have to fear. I guess you would have to ask them; they would have the better answer to your question. I am doing my job. That's what I was elected to do. I don't fear the left, and maybe that's part of the loathing that they feel toward me. I'm not afraid to speak out on conservative positions and on issues. We're a deep-blue state, we're a strong liberal, Democrat state.

She also discussed a possible run for the U.S. Senate:

"I won't close the door on anything. But, you know, I never anticipated going into politics. I never saw that as my future. I was an accidental state senator. I didn't intend to run for office, and then I was recruited and encouraged to run for Congress when my predecessor, Mark Kennedy, ran for the Senate. So, elective office wasn't something that I sought out. . ...So, no, I don't have my sights set on the U.S. Senate, or on anything else."

Comment on this post

AP: Senate Democrats reach a deal to drop the public option

Posted at 9:04 PM on December 8, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2008: U.S. Senate, Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

AP is reporting that Senate Democrats have reached a deal to drop the public option:

Majority Leader Harry Reid refused to provide any details at a mid-evening news conference where he told reporters a "broad agreement" had been reached between liberals and moderates on the controversial issue.

With it, he said, the end is in sight for passage of the legislation that Congress has labored over for months.

In place of a government-run plan, originally designed as a way of forcing competition on private industry, officials said the Democrats had tentatively settled on a private insurance arrangement to be supervised by the federal agency that oversees the system through which lawmakers purchase coverage. Additionally, the tentative deal calls for Medicare to be opened to uninsured Americans beginning at age 55, a significant expansion of the large government health care program that currently serves the 65-and-over population.

Bachmann wants a Palin book

Posted at 10:48 AM on December 7, 2009 by Tim Pugmire (30 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann says she's not yet ready to back a 2012 presidential candidate.

Bachmann briefly talked politics with reporters this morning following a GOP State Capitol rally in support of a proposed constitutional amendment to cap state spending. The 6th district Republican said she will be at a private fundraiser tonight that former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is also scheduled to attend following her Mall of America book signing.

"I hope I can get a book and maybe get it signed," Bachmann said.

Palin is widely viewed as a possible GOP candidate for president in 2012, as is Gov. Tim Pawlenty. But Bachmann isn't picking sides, yet.

"I like both of them, " Bachmann said. "They're great. Of course I'm very partial toward our own governor. I think he's marvelous, but I love Gov. Palin. And I'm sure that there will be a lot more choices out there as well. So, I'll withhold judgement as to who I'll be supporting."

As far as her own political aspirations, Bachmann said her focus is on running for re-election in 2010.

Comment on this post

Bachmann to speak at Monday's GOP rally

Posted at 6:13 AM on December 4, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

The Minnesota Republican Party says GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann will appear at the MNGOP's December 7th rally in the Capitol Rotunda. The rally is in support of Gov. Pawlenty's proposed constitutional amendment to put a cap on state spending.

Here's part of the news release:

"We need to rein in spending at all levels of government. That's why I'm such a big supporter of Governor Pawlenty's common sense Spending Accountability Amendment. Monday's rally at the state Capitol in support of this amendment will be a great event for Minnesotans who want to keep St. Paul's big spending liberals in check," said Congresswoman Michele Bachmann.

"We're thrilled Congresswoman Bachmann will be speaking at our rally in support of Governor Pawlenty's Spending Accountability Amendment. She is a true champion of the taxpayer and a one of kind of speaker who gets our grassroots energized," said Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Tony Sutton.

"Congresswoman Bachmann is one of the nation's leading voices for lower taxes, limited government and reform. She understands that the Spending Accountability Amendment's time has come. Along with our great activists across the state, I'm sure Congresswoman Bachmann will be fired up and ready to go," said Republican Party of Minnesota Deputy Chairman Michael Brodkorb.

The Spending Accountability Amendment Rally with Representative Michele Bachmann, Senator Amy Koch, Representative Paul Kohls, Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Tony Sutton and Deputy Chairman Michael Brodkorb

Capitol Rotunda
December 7, 2009
9:30 - 10:00 AM

Walz to hold 2nd Townhall on Afghanistan

Posted at 3:15 PM on December 3, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Tim Walz will hold another townhall on Afghanistan. Here are the details from Walz's office:

Today, Congressman Walz announced he will host his second townhall to discuss the US strategy in Afghanistan with southern Minnesotans in Mankato on Monday night. Walz, a retired Army National Guard Command Sgt Major, held his first Afghanistan townhall in Winona this October.

Who: Congressman Walz, members of the public and media

What: Townhall discussion on US strategy in Afghanistan

When: Monday, December 7th, 5:30-7pm

Where: South Central College
Conference Center B

1920 Lee Boulevard

North Mankato, MN

Reed going to a primary

Posted at 7:23 AM on December 3, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

On the same day that DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar endorsed DFL state Sen. Tarryl Clark for Congress in Minnesota's 6th District, Maureen Reed announced that she's running in the primary. Here's part of the e-mail she sent to supporters:

With this in mind, I want to address the question about the DFL endorsement. After fully analyzing the situation, I have decided that if I do not receive the endorsement at the convention this spring, we will proceed to the DFL primary election.

We used thoughtful consideration to reach this conclusion since I have such a great deal of respect for the dedicated individuals in the DFL who generously give their time working to improve our state and nation. However, the Sixth District is unique in that it is more moderate and independently minded in its political leanings than the state as a whole. In fact, we conducted a poll which showed that the profile of the Democratic primary voter is more diverse in political philosophy than those who participate in the conventions.

Recent campaign results in the Sixth District show that a big-tent Democrat who appeals to independent voters has the best chance to defeat Michele Bachmann. For example, last year, President Obama won Minnesota by double digits but lost to John McCain 53% to 45% in our district. That same year in the Sixth District, Norm Coleman beat Al Franken by 16 points, and Dean Barkley ended up with 17% of the vote.

Democracy works best when more people are involved. We feel that the most democratic action we can take is to let Democrats of all stripes choose their general election candidate in a primary.

Oberstar backs Clark in 6th district race

Posted at 5:01 PM on December 2, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar is endorsing state Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St.Cloud, in 6th district congressional bid.

Clark is seeking the DFL endorsement to run against incumbent Republican Congreswoman Michele Bachmann next fall. Oberstar praised Clark in a fundraising message to her supporters:

"Tarryl is a seasoned, experienced legislator," Oberstar wrote. "She knows her district, and she knows central Minnesota. She knows the needs of the people of this area -- their economic needs, their transportation needs, and their community service needs. She knows how to work in a legislative environment, to work across party lines and to bring people together for a consensus to build a better future for us in Minnesota."

MNGOP rips Walz on health care vote

Posted at 10:32 AM on December 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck (1 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

The Minnesota Republican Party is running a radio ad ripping DFL Rep. Tim Walz for voting for the health care overhaul bill. Here's the ad.

I'm still trying to find out the size of the ad buy and where it's running.

A spokesman for the MNGOP says the ad buy is "five figures and will run in southern Minnesota."

Comment on this post

Jim Hagedorn latest Republican to jump in race to challenge Walz.

Posted at 10:20 AM on December 2, 2009 by Tom Scheck (6 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

Republican Jim Hagedorn is the latest Republican candidate to jump in the race in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. Hagedorn, son of former GOP Congressman Tom Hagedorn. Here's part of the release from Jim Hagedorn.

"The greatness of America is under assault by the liberal politicians who run Washington, D.C.," said Hagedorn. "The big government agenda of President Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Tim Walz is in direct conflict with our free enterprise system and the enduring principles of liberty, individual opportunity, personal responsibility and traditional cultural values."

"Washington, D.C. is out of control," Hagedorn continued. "Our leaders are spending borrowed money faster than it can be printed, taxing and regulating producers into submission, plotting the takeover of whole sectors of our economy and driving us toward European socialism." "Tim Walz claims to be a thoughtful moderate, but his complete embrace of the Obama-Pelosi agenda has exposed Tim Walz as a thoughtless liberal," said Hagedorn.

"I left Capitol Hill and returned to help the people I love the most because this country is worth defending, our way of life is worth saving and the people of Southern Minnesota are worth fighting for," Hagedorn stated.

A native of Blue Earth, Jim worked with his dad and grandfather on the family's grain and hog farm located just outside Truman. In 1974, Jim's father, Tom, was elected to Congress to represent Southern Minnesota, which he served until 1983. "Living on the farm and being part of our rural communities ingrained in me the small town values that have sustained me throughout life," Hagedorn said.

Hagedorn's announcement comes one day after state Rep. Randy Demmer entered the race. Former State Sen. Allen Quist is also running.

Side note: I'm expecting Hagedorn to call me. I'll post the interview here when he does. Here's an interview with Hagedorn: Listen

Update: DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez released this statement on Hagedorn:

"Typical of the 'Party of No,' Jim Hagedorn is jumping into the First District race by launching baseless partisan attacks at Representative Walz -- because Hagedorn himself has no substance to run on.

"Jim Hagedorn is a 25-year Capitol Hill operative turned lobbyist, now trying to use his connections to buy himself a seat in Congress. He is yet another Republican hoping to cozy up to right-wing tea-baggers to further his own ambitions. The Tea Party Republicans are constantly attacking government of any form, so it will be interesting to see how they receive Jim Hagedorn, who has been a federal-government insider for nearly all his adult life.

"Throughout his tenure, Representative Walz has fought for southern Minnesotans in Congress and has consistently delivered -- working to create jobs and help families deal with the skyrocketing costs of health care. The hard work that Representative Walz puts in for Minnesota's families every day, and the results that he has delivered, show how an effective representative operates."

Comment on this post

React

Posted at 7:55 PM on December 1, 2009 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

I'm posting reaction from Minnesota's congressional delegation, etc. on President Obama's decision to send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan (watch the speech here). I'm not sure who will provide statements, etc. (For what it's worth, here's what the members of the delegation said about Aghanistan in October.)

Statement from DFL Rep. Tim Walz:

"It is important that President Obama went through such a thorough decision-making process and talked with experts both within and outside of the Administration. His speech tonight gave us some good information about not just the troop increase, but also the mission, the plan for withdrawal and the resources necessary to finish the job.

"This speech is the first page in a new chapter on Afghanistan. I'm looking forward to the testimony of experts like General McChrystal and Secretaries Gates and Clinton before Congress as we carefully examine this new strategy. I'm also committed to continuing to engage the public on this topic and to having the Administration fill in additional details about our strategy. We as a nation need to better understand the total cost of continuing to wage war, and also the cost to our national security if we choose not to continue our efforts in Afghanistan. These are the kinds of things that I believe can be achieved by a national discussion on the topic, and I look forward to taking part in that discussion in the coming weeks and months."

Statement from GOP Rep. John Kline:

As a 25-year veteran of the Marine Corps, I remain committed to ensuring our troops have the equipment, resources, and support they need to do their jobs in the most effective manner possible. Our goal in Afghanistan remains the same - a stable country that denies the Taliban and al-Qaeda a safe haven from which to launch attacks against Afghanistan, Pakistan, or the U.S. and its allies.

"In August, General McChrystal said we're in danger of losing if we don't provide our troops with the resources they need. I don't want to send our sons and daughters - including my son, who is scheduled to return to Afghanistan early next year - into a situation we can't win. Accordingly, I have deep concerns regarding whether the President is providing sufficient U.S. forces in order to achieve success in Afghanistan while building the Afghan National Security Forces to a level that can sustain security gains achieved by U.S. and NATO troops.

"I also am concerned about any discussion of an 'exit strategy' or 'end game' that would telegraph to the Taliban and al-Qaeda the timeline necessary to run out the 'Washington clock.' Additionally, announcing a timeline for withdrawal sends a clear message to the Afghan people and the world that we are not committed to their safety.

"If we are going to risk even one more American life in this battle, we must do so with a strategy that gives us the best opportunities for success. I continue to desire safety and security for our nation and victory in Afghanistan, and look forward to hearing testimony from Secretary Gates, Admiral Mullen, and General McChrystal in the coming days and weeks."

# # #

Statement from DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar:

"This was President Obama's most poignant and forceful speech to-date, he made a strong case intellectual case for expanding the U.S. presence in Afghanistan, stating clearly what the augmented force will do. He also made a compelling emotional appeal for stepping up the fight based on the attacks of September 11th. By personally addressing the cadets of West Point and acknowledging the sacrifice they are willing to make on our behalf, the President Obama demonstrated that he is aware of the profound human cost of this ongoing military engagement.

I was impressed with the fact that he laid out a timetable for withdrawal, rather than basing it on conditions under which a drawdown would occur. The later hedges the issue, while a timetable makes a commitment to accomplish the mission without delay.

But he didn't say how we will pay for it, and because of that I will have to reserve judgment until we see what specific requests he will make of Congress and what the true cost will be to the American people.

How does he propose to balance the expanded presence in Afghanistan against the desperate needs of our economy? Will an ongoing and expanded military presence in this region continue to be paid for as an off-budget, emergency expenditure, or will we identify how we will pay for it?

This is reminiscent of when President Lyndon Johnson said that we could pursue an expanded role in Viet Nam while maintaining a strong domestic economy. In the end the war in Viet Nam stifled the objectives of the Great Society. In pursuing both, we were not able to do either very well.

I have serious concerns about how we will proceed with a continued, and expanded, military presence in Afghanistan, while we move ahead with an effective domestic agenda that meets the needs of our nation during the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Tonight, President Obama made a good start in addressing those concerns, but he has more work to do."

Statement from DFL Sen. Al Franken:

Franni and I have been to the funerals of thirteen service members from Minnesota in the short time I've been in office. With so many troops from Minnesota already deployed, I have been following the Obama administration's development of a new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan very closely. I am glad that the President has deliberated carefully and I will be closely examining the new strategy in the days and weeks ahead, starting with the testimony of Secretaries Gates and Clinton and Admiral Mullen this week. I go into that examination, quite frankly, skeptical about a strategy that involves a significant increase in the number of American troops. That is in no small part because I am deeply skeptical of the Afghan government. I need to be convinced that we have reliable partners in both Pakistan and Afghanistan; that the mission as outlined is achievable; that we are not making an open-ended commitment; and that there is a sensible way to pay for the war.

Statement from GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen:

"I was pleased to hear from the President tonight about his plan for the way forward in Afghanistan. On this issue, partisanship needs to be put aside, as a stable and secure Afghanistan is important not only to our national security, but to security in the entire region. We cannot allow a resurgence of Al Qaeda and the Taliban or increased instability in a nuclear-armed Pakistan.

While I support the President's goal of success in Afghanistan, I look forward to hearing additional details from Secretary Gates, General McChrystal and leading diplomats in the coming days. Above all else, we must ensure that our troops have the full resources and unwavering support they need as we move forward."

###

Statement from GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann:

"After several long months of deliberation, I'm pleased that the President has finally decided to follow the recommendation of our commanding officer in Afghanistan and deploy more troops to the country. As the President has said, the war in Afghanistan is a war of necessity. However, I sincerely hope that the President is truly committed to victory. While it's important to acknowledge that U.S. forces will not be in Afghanistan forever, we must not have a concrete time line for withdrawal as it will ultimately hurt our effort and energize our enemies. Clearly, it's in the vital interests of the United States to defeat the Taliban, destroy Al Queda, and establish a free, sovereign Afghanistan that can govern and look after its own people. Anything less and we're guaranteeing almost certain instability and chaos in the region. But going forward, we must be in it to win it because if we engage in this effort halfheartedly, then the war is already lost."

Statement from DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar:

"Tonight, the President laid out a defined strategy and mission for U.S. forces in Afghanistan. However, I remain concerned about the ability of the Afghan government to rid itself of corruption, govern effectively, and act as a credible partner in the fight against the Taliban. I look forward to hearing from Secretary of Defense Gates, Secretary of State Clinton, General McChrystal, and other military and diplomatic officials in the coming weeks on how this strategy will prevent Afghanistan from serving as a base for terrorism, the specific resources that will be necessary to carry out this mission, and the additional costs that it will require. Our troops deserve nothing less."

Statement from DFL Rep. Betty McCollum:

"Tonight, President Obama did exactly what he told the American people he would do during the campaign - make Afghanistan a priority. I support the President's commitment of additional resources to secure Afghanistan because achieving stability in that region is vital to the security of American families. After eight years of neglect by the Bush Administration, our fighting men and women will finally have the resources they need and a full U.S. commitment to success," Congresswoman McCollum said.

Last month, Congresswoman McCollum joined Appropriations Chairman David Obey as one of 10 original co-sponsors of the Share the Sacrifice Act of 2010 (H.R.4130), a bill to establish a temporary surtax to offset the costs of the Afghanistan war. About $300 billion has been spent on the conflict since 2001 and 68,000 U.S. troops are serving in Afghanistan.

McCollum said, "Achieving stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan is a national security priority that directly impacts the safety of our citizens. All additional funding necessary to achieve stability in this region should not be put on America's credit card, but paid for today. In a time of economic crisis, borrowing billions of dollars from China to pay for war in Afghanistan actually undermines our national security. Shared sacrifice means not only committing to fight a war but also committing to pay for it."

Comment on this post

McCollum on the war tax

Posted at 5:40 PM on December 1, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

AP is reporting that President Obama announces 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan, pullback to begin July 2011. Meanwhile, several Democrats in Congress are pushing for a tax to pay for the troop buildup. DFL Rep. Betty McCollum is one of those who signed on to the bill. Listen to her interview with MPR's Tom Crann here:

Embed | Help

Copy and paste the HTML below to embed this audio onto your web page.

Audio player code:
<iframe title="minnesota_news_features_2009_12_01_afghanistanwarsurtax_20091201_64s_player" type="text/html" width="319" height="83" src="http://minnesota.publicradio.org/www_publicradio/tools/media_player/syndicate.php?name=minnesota/news/features/2009/12/01/afghanistanwarsurtax_20091201_64" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen></iframe>

sponsor:

You can listen to President Obama's speech live tonight on MPR News stations. Coverage starts at 7pm.

Update: The White House released these excerpts of tonight's speech:

Excerpts of the President's Address to the Nation "The 30,000 additional troops that I am announcing tonight will deploy in the first part of 2010 - the fastest pace possible - so that they can target the insurgency and secure key population centers. They will increase our ability to train competent Afghan Security Forces, and to partner with them so that more Afghans can get into the fight. And they will help create the conditions for the United States to transfer responsibility to the Afghans."

"Because this is an international effort, I have asked that our commitment be joined by contributions from our allies. Some have already provided additional troops, and we are confident that there will be further contributions in the days and weeks ahead. Our friends have fought and bled and died alongside us in Afghanistan. Now, we must come together to end this war successfully. For what's at stake is not simply a test of NATO's credibility - what's at stake is the security of our Allies, and the common security of the world."

"Taken together, these additional American and international troops will allow us to accelerate handing over responsibility to Afghan forces, and allow us to begin the transfer of our forces out of Afghanistan in July of 2011. Just as we have done in Iraq, we will execute this transition responsibly, taking into account conditions on the ground. We will continue to advise and assist Afghanistan's Security Forces to ensure that they can succeed over the long haul. But it will be clear to the Afghan government - and, more importantly, to the Afghan people - that they will ultimately be responsible for their own country."

###

Demmer running for Congress again

Posted at 3:58 PM on December 1, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

State Rep. Randy Demmer, R-Hayfield, issued a news release today announcing he'll once again run for Congress in Minnesota's 1st District.

Demmer is after the seat held by incumbent U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, D-Minn. Demmer also ran in 2008 but lost his bid for the GOP endorsement. IN a phone interview, Demmer said he's disturbed and upset with the direction of Congress and what he sees as the expansion of government.

"I think we're in a period of unsustainable government growth, the likes of which we've never seen," Demmer said. "And I'm very concerned about today and I'm very concerned about the future. And I feel that I have an opportunity and or an obligation to step in and do something."

Demmer said his focus is on the Congressional race, and he will not seek re-election to the Minnesota House. Former state Rep. Allen Quist is also seeking the Republican endorsement in the 1st District.

Listen to the Demmer interview here. Listen

Update: The race for the GOP endorsement will get a bit more crowded tomorrow. MPR's Tom Scheck received a cryptic e-mail that said a "Fresh Face with Familiar Name to Announce Campaign for Congress in Minnesota's 1st District" on Wednesday morning. The Rochester Post-Bulletin speculates that it's Jim Hagedorn, son of former Congressman Tom Hagedorn.

Update: DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez released this statement on Demmer's candidacy:

"Randy Demmer is a perfect candidate for the right-wing, 'Party of No' Republicans. And now that he's running for Congress, Demmer is showing his true colors.

"As a state representative, Randy Demmer gladly accepted federal Recovery Act money for southern Minnesota. But now he is speaking out against all the jobs created by federal recovery money to gain favor with the Tea Baggers and ultra conservatives -- even calling the 7,000 teaching positions created or saved a waste. He believes the construction jobs created by highway work in Rochester were a waste; he believes the jobs created by replacing Highway 169 in St. Peter were the result of a free-for-all, and he believes that the jobs created by rebuilding the water plant in Waseca simply weren't worth it. Do voters in southern Minnesota really want a representative who opposes jobs and growth?

"Representative Walz is working to create jobs, fire up the economy and curb out-of-control health-care costs. He is focused on getting the job done and delivering for southern Minnesotans. Representative Walz has a proven record in Congress as a leader for Minnesota values, and his constituents will remember that record when they reelect him in November."

Bachmann to speak at National Tea Party event

Posted at 2:16 PM on November 25, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann's office has confirmed that Bachmann will speak at a National Tea Party event in February. Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin will also speak at the event. The National Tea Party Convention will be held in Tennessee on February 4,5 and 6th.

Keith Ellison gets a challenger

Posted at 9:56 PM on November 24, 2009 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison may be in one of the safest congressional districts in the state but that doesn't mean he won't have challengers. The Federal Election Commission reports today that Lynne Torgerson has filed paperwork to run in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District.

Torgerson, a private attorney, has run as a registered independent in the past. In 2008, she ran for Minnesota House District 59A.

Torgerson's website says she's conservative on some issues including abortion, defining marriage between one man and one woman and defending the 2nd Amendment.

Comment on this post

Bachmann gets standing ovations at conservative conference

Posted at 4:51 AM on November 24, 2009 by Tom Scheck (3 Comments)
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: U.S. House

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann attended the Restoration Weekend conference in Palm Beach, Florida over the weekend. The event appeared to be a who's who of conservative activists and conservative leaders. Newt Gingrich, Phyllis Schlafly and Ann Coulter are just some of the names in attendance. But it appeared that Bachmann got the biggest ovation for saying Al Franken stole the election and she's the "left's number one target."

Conservative blogger Steven Rosenblum had this snapshot from Bachmann's appearance:

The best and most well received speech was given by the fantastic Representative Michele Bachmann of Minnesota. She made no secret of the fact she believes Al Franken stole the US Senate election from Norm Coleman. She spoke of being the left's number one target (maybe number 2 after Sarah Palin), speaking as a victim, but pointing to the fact that the left knows it's ideas are failing and that their arguments fall short, so they attack the messenger. Bachmann got 3 standing ovations from a receptive audience that obviously would like to see her lead the conservatives back into the leadership of the House GOP. After her rousing speech Rep. Bachmann was inundated by the crowd, looking for photo-ops and the chance to shake her hand and thank her for her efforts.

Comment on this post

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

Posted at 5:43 PM on November 21, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, Campaign 2010: Minnesota Governor, Campaign 2010: 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."

Quist on the stump...

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

Comment on this post

The Washington Post gauges Minnesota interest on Afghanistan

Posted at 3:24 PM on November 20, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

Quist gets in

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

###

Comment on this post

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, 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.

Comment on this post

Franken raising money for Clark in 6th district

Posted at 11:18 AM on November 18, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

Paulsen tries to end TARP funding

Posted at 4:43 PM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

Powers turns on congressional campaign in 2nd district

Posted at 11:18 AM on November 17, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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

Hackett gets in the race

Posted at 11:05 AM on November 17, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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

DNC to target Paulsen

Posted at 1:01 PM on November 16, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

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, Campaign 2010: U.S. House, Tim Pawlenty

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.

Comment on this post

Did Bachmann break House rules?

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

Comment on this post

Clark hires campaign staff

Posted at 11:15 AM on November 10, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

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

Posted at 10:30 AM on November 10, 2009 by Tim Pugmire
Filed under: Campaign 2010, 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.

House passes health care overhaul bill

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

Comment on this post

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, 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

Comment on this post

Bachmann at rally, Ellison on TV

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

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, 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.

Comment on this post

Meffert running in the 3rd.

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

Comment on this post

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, 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.

Comment on this post

Oberstar to raise money for Clark

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

Comment on this post

Paulsen delivers health care bill to local libraries

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

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, 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.

Comment on this post

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, 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."

Comment on this post

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, 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

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, 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.

DFLer set to take on Kline

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

Comment on this post