Pilar Marrero on immigration, 'Killing the American Dream'

11:20 AM, November 7, 2012

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Pilar Marrero on immigration, 'Killing the American Dream' (program audio)

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Pilar Marrero: Senior political writer for La Opinion, the largest Spanish-language daily newspaper in the United States.

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The Daily Circuit Digs into national, Minn. election results

On the day after the election, what we asked our audience was this:

What's your message to Congress & the President? What should their top priorities be?

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:18 AM

On the day after the election, what we asked our audience was this:

What's your message to Congress & the President? What should their top priorities be?

Here are the Minnesota election results.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:07 AM
@KerriMPR I NEED A JOB.

by lindseynissen — November 7, 2012 at 9:11 AM
@KerriMPR science funding is lowest in my lifetime. We cannot afford more cuts to NIH. Leaders - stand up for knowledge and discovery!

by Doris Taylor — November 7, 2012 at 9:11 AM
@KerriMPR @11 this election was not a popularity contest! This was an affirmation of tolerance and inclusion--and moderate politics.

by natchat — November 7, 2012 at 9:11 AM
@KerriMPR Jobs, healthcare, education, immigration.

by OneTomato_Two — November 7, 2012 at 9:11 AM
The Republicans have a much bigger problem with women and ethnic minorities than the Democrats do with whites. - Marc Hetherington.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:13 AM
How did Obama win? Here's Ron Brownstein's theory about the "coalition of the ascendant":

"In many places, particularly across the Sun Belt, Obama mobilized the Democrats' new “coalition of the ascendant,” winning enough support among young people, minorities and college-educated whites, especially women, to overcome very weak numbers among blue-collar whites and college-educated men. But in the upper Midwest, where there are not enough of those voters to win, Obama attracted just enough working-class whites to hold the critical battlegrounds of Wisconsin, Iowa, and above all Ohio against Mitt Romney’s forceful challenge."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:16 AM
Obama should reach across the aisle if the Republicans are willing to work with him. I wouldn't count on it, though.

by Richard Schuster — November 7, 2012 at 9:16 AM
it's great to say that politicians should work together - that should be a given - BUT we NEED the electorate to begin working toward the change they seek.

People cannot only pay attention in election years, or in the month before. people need to be accountable for what happens - i'd say the best way to ensure that we can work together is to fill up the in-boxes of our elected officials: make them pay attention, make them work for us. even if their inbox is filled with a divided electorate, maybe they'll see that compromise is all the more important.

WE ALL NEED TO GET TO WORK TO MAKE THE CHANGE WE SEEK.

by Chelsea DeRuyter — November 7, 2012 at 9:16 AM
@KerriMPR Don't confuse the issue. The GOP vowed obstructionism in 2009. It's up to THEM to cooperate. Dems have been bipartisan all along.

by Pete McCauley — November 7, 2012 at 9:16 AM
@KerriMPR both sides must see that compromise doesn't = failure. Partner on some small issues and let success flow from there.

by CGrothaus — November 7, 2012 at 9:16 AM
@DailyCircuit Obama's 2nd term must make climate change a priority. virtually ignored during the campaigns, it is the most pressing issue

by peter gray — November 7, 2012 at 9:17 AM
Paul Thissen joins Kerri now.

"Maybe the problem is the word 'compromise' and we should use the word 'solution.'" - Thissen.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:19 AM
How Democrats dominated Minnesota last night.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:20 AM
"I think that there is a clear message that people want a realistic fix to our budget and some fairness and simplicity brought back to our tax system....property taxes were a concern in this election." - Paul Thissen, who plans to put his name in the hat for Speaker of the House.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:22 AM
Let's go off the cliff and force a real discussion of the economy.

by Dennis — November 7, 2012 at 9:22 AM
RT @graypeter: @DailyCircuit Obama's 2nd term must make climate change a priority. virtually ignored during the campaigns, it is the most pressing issue

by abywolf — November 7, 2012 at 9:22 AM
@KerriMPR: the primary process did not serve the Republicans well (Todd Akin), how can they conclude anything but they are too extreme?

by mgrant5x5 — November 7, 2012 at 9:23 AM
America is no longer a White People's Wonderland. The Republican party will die if it's only a refuge for bigots, the greedy, and the ignorant. And no compromise is possible with those people, nor should we try.

by SLetov — November 7, 2012 at 9:26 AM
Janice called in. She was a Romney supporter:

"I pray for this country. We are going to have the same stuff for 4 more years. No jobs and debt."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:27 AM
RT @webertom1: MN DFL House leader @PaulThissen confirms on @DailyCircuit he'll vie for Speaker; caucus will meet tomorrow night to pick leadership.

by tomscheck — November 7, 2012 at 9:27 AM
Guest Michael Fauntroy.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:27 AM
The economy is a clear priority. But if we do not start dealing with climate change in a serious, bipartisan manner, our future economy and quality of life will face real trouble.

by Sonja — November 7, 2012 at 9:28 AM
At work today, the homophobic comments have been coming fast and furious by multiple persons despite company policies. The last caller is similar: so much anger and small mindedness.

by Chris — November 7, 2012 at 9:29 AM
@KerriMPR 581 bills have been signed into law since 2009. The issue is not bipartisanship that the MEDIA loves to paint.

by wreynaga — November 7, 2012 at 9:29 AM
@KerriMPR Will Republicans Compromise without seeing their ‘brand’ damaged. We the voters have to hold them accountable to get functionalgov

by MBurnsville — November 7, 2012 at 9:29 AM
"We ran on the jobs theme...it would seem hard to believe that the public would not accept that. For all of us, it remains a mystery." - Senator Dave Senjem.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:34 AM
In 2004 Barack Obama said "The war on drugs has been an utter failure. We need to rethink and decriminalize our nation's marijuana laws." Let's get to it!

by Sarah S. — November 7, 2012 at 9:35 AM
Kerri: Now that the Democrats have a majority in both the MN Senate and House, is there a chance that legislation to legalize same-sex marriage will be presented and voted upon at the legislative level?

by Scott Brazil — November 7, 2012 at 9:35 AM
It seems to me the biggest message President Obama was trying to get across throughout his campaign and last night in his speech is that we are all in this together.

It also seems to me that the country responded to that message. This inclusive attitude shows the Democrat's willingness to compromise.

Not seeing the same trends from the GOP. Not a lot of hope for compromise with an ideological U.S. House, but the Democrats have to stay true to their inclusive attitude to keep their very diverse base in tact. Plus, its the right thing to do.

by John Uphoff — November 7, 2012 at 9:35 AM
Rep. Mitch McConnell statement, from UPI:

"The American people did two things: They gave President Obama a second chance to fix the problems that even he admits he failed to solve during his first four years in office, and they preserved Republican control of the House of Representatives."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:38 AM
Interviews and pundits are all recorded - lets look at what they said over the last few weeks as many (most?) we're clearly blowing smoke. It would be good to know who to ignore in the future.

by Steve56303 — November 7, 2012 at 9:38 AM
Having lost 5 of the last 6 presidential popular votes, angry Republicans naturally will conclude that the problem is that they haven't moved far enough to the right.

by Jason — November 7, 2012 at 9:38 AM
@kerrimpr Do you know what percentage of the vote Gary Johnson got? I voted for him. I think a third voice would help ACTUALLY bring change

by right2speach — November 7, 2012 at 9:38 AM
Reason Magazine reports that Gary Johnson got about 1% of the vote.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:39 AM
"I am so sick of the games being played. I voted for Obama because at least he is willing to compromise." Stacy from Sioux Falls, Republican who voted for Obama.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:40 AM
Dave Senjem's complete lack of self-analysis/awareness is astonishing and completely reflective of why his party lost big yeterday.

by Jody Thronson — November 7, 2012 at 9:40 AM
Wow - Senator Senjem doesn't get it. Way to go Minnesota voters!

by mitch73 — November 7, 2012 at 9:40 AM
@DailyCircuit MN voters reject what Reps actually did (shift, divisive social policy), hope Dems will do what Reps said they would do (Jobs)

by Daniel Lydon — November 7, 2012 at 9:41 AM
Marc Hetherington

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:42 AM
"I see nothing but evidence that the party will double-down." - Michael Fauntroy on the Republicans and the Tea Party platform.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:44 AM
I don't vote for 1 specific party - try to pick who I believe is the best candidate. I am tired of the negativeness on both side and demonizing anyone who has a different opinion. Need to get things done, but I don't see a mandate on either side

by Dale — November 7, 2012 at 9:44 AM
Senjem and the Republican party just can't recognize reality because of their ideological blinders. If the current jobs situation doesn't support a Republican victory on that issue, then it is because the voters recognize that the Republican solution to fixing the economy is wrong.

by Rightthinker — November 7, 2012 at 9:44 AM
@kerrimpr When this "smart as a 5th grader" campaigning changes, maybe decisions will get made.

by pauljoejimpic — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
@KerriMPR After every election the politicians are full of compromise talk. Never happens. Why on earth would it be any different this year?

by Garmoe — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
@KerriMPR Todd Akin wasn't just a tea-party novice; he won state-wide office multiple times. This is not just a new Tea-party thing

by Ddrekonja — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
@kerrimpr agreed Stacy. Cut the Two-year-old behavior out. Both parties do it and its not productive.

by zweberfarms — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
@kerrimpr Everything stacy said x2. Enough with the extreme politics. We need centrists. That was the mandate of this election.

by Marcus — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
RT @natchat: @KerriMPR Nationwide, the women have spoken, and the old guard had best listen.

by kaizpuru — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
@rpmlive @pa1422 @KerriMPR I agree people are OK with it but I think it more shows more how suburban america is in control and 4 entitlement

by DerekHackett — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
Avoid extreme issues. Respect women, diversity, and the younger voter. Find fair solutions through compromise.

by Nancy — November 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM
I think we're seeing a new situation in politics...social issues can no longer be conservative. Immigration needs a realistic solution (similar to Bush/McCain's plan), abortion always remain legal...being against it will only hurt you and gay marriage is going to be accepted in every state very soon.

by Mithrandir48 — November 7, 2012 at 9:46 AM
Steve in Roseville called in to say he wants the President to finally do something serious about climate change. Tie it to the fiscal cliff with a carbon tax.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:47 AM
@KerriMPR is reform the mandate? Extremes in the primary is the problem...and the reason romney didn't win

by MBurnsville — November 7, 2012 at 9:47 AM
Minnesota Republicans ran on jobs and the economy. They arrived in St. Paul and they went after social issues and it backfired. They accomplished nothing and Minnesotans rejected them. For President, if the Republicans would have been bold and put a fiscal conservative that was more socially liberal, I think they could have swept up.

by Aaron Humble — November 7, 2012 at 9:47 AM
At least at this point I am amazed at the inability of the State Republican you had on to recognize the reality of the election results in this state.

I think Minnesotans are bright enough to know that the Republicans have, locally and nationally, taken up the banner of "no Compromise".

The state Republicans have wasted time with marriage amendments and voter id amendments instead of looking for ways to work with the governor.

I believe that the middle class has had enough of calling the wealthiest among us "job creators".

It is simple economics.

Until the poor and middle class have enough money to generate demand there will be no reason to hire employees. Our infrastructure needs updating and this is where the government can gin up employment and start the demand side of demand and supply. Most of us know that giving tax breaks to the 1% does not create jobs. Saying your position is more jobs as your guest said, is not supported by their actions.

by dennis — November 7, 2012 at 9:48 AM
The biggest question is what are the Republicans going to do now that their coalition can't deliver anymore? What groups can deliver them an Electoral College victory? Is it all old and white?

by Libraryben — November 7, 2012 at 9:48 AM
The ballot initiatives probably played a large role in the replacement of the republican legislators with DFLers. These were highly public statements of purpose based on a poorly-written power grab and a hot-button social issue. These had nothing to do with jobs, they were rejected, and the folks who sent them were rejected.

by Ilana Percher — November 7, 2012 at 9:50 AM
Republican lost their appeal for 4 main reasons:

1. They refuse to recognize that consumers are the ultimate job creators by creating demanding.

2. They offered an agenda of no new ideas.

3. They disenfranchised minorities, indirectly and direct; especially with phrases like take back our country. and

4. They claim to love God above all and had actions that contradicted all Gods principles, caring for the poor, loving your neighbor - - who exactly would Jesus refuse to provide healthcare for? We are a better country when ALL of us contribute ideas and have dialogue.

Come on Republicans, pick up your toys and come back to the game. Respectfully.

by Melanie Allen — November 7, 2012 at 9:50 AM
Mandate or no, both sides want the same thing and I'd like to see the republicans figure that out. Don't forget the fiscal cliff will cripple EVERYONE and take a look at the environment, some things are worth paying for.

by Joey — November 7, 2012 at 9:50 AM
I could not disagree more about the Democrats moving to the left. From where I stand, they have moved so far to the right that I feel comfortable voting for them, despite my conservative leanings.

by crayboy — November 7, 2012 at 9:52 AM
The key to future Republican success is to stick with their economic strategies and move away from the extreme social views of the right wing. So many independents wanted to vote for the Republican economic strategy, but could not because of the extreme social views (e.g. Michele Bachmann's views, the Missouri & Indiana Republican senate candidates' comments, support of the MN marriage amendment, etc.).

by Sarah — November 7, 2012 at 9:52 AM
The vote analysis show how easy it would be for the Republicans to win by simply not alienating one of many minority groups.

by crayboy — November 7, 2012 at 9:53 AM
"We have to reverse Citizen's United. I'd like to move forward on public financing of elections." - Congressman-elect Rick Nolan on how to reduce the amount we spend on elections. Also suggest 60-90 days election contests.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 9:59 AM
I can not agree with the knee-jerk remark that the Republicans in congress are becoming more right wing and the Democrats more liberal. It is obvious that the Republicans are going far to the right, however, the Democrats are not more liberal. Look at the 2 Senators from Minnesota. They are certainly not the great liberals that Humphrey and McCarthy were. Klobuchar and Franken are good Senators but more centratrist.

by ken — November 7, 2012 at 9:59 AM
Kerri's first guests are Michael Fauntroy, professor of public policy at George Mason University and the author of: "Republicans and the Black Vote." And Marc Hetherington is a Professor of Political Science at Vanderbilt University and "Why Trust Matters."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:00 AM
We continue into next hour. The headlines? Here they are:

- Obama re-elected
- Marriage amendment defeated
- Voter ID amendment defeated
- DFL regains control of Minnesota Legislature
- Rep. Chip Cravaack concedes defeat to challenger Rick Nolan, a DFLer, in 8th District
- Bachmann holds off Graves
- Walz, Peterson, McCollum, Ellison, Kline, and Paulsen re-elected to Congress in Minnesota
- GOP holds onto U.S. House; Dems hold onto U.S. Senate

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:01 AM
@KerriMPR Dems should avoid social issues out of the gate concentrate on job creation and long term solution to our budget#mnleg

by Zen2019 — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR With Repubs in control of House and Dems with Senate and WH, it is only too easy for both sides to keep blaming each other.

by jennifermaki22 — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR DFL needs to be BOLD. Not just republican light

by mmerissa — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR My Message: DO SOMETHING! I'm a Democrat who might have voted for McCain in 2000 had he won the nomination.

by Chris Paul — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR's guests suffering from mild case of schadenfreude. Tone it down, and get more moderate guests please - a member/fan of @MPRnews

by Simon Trautmann Esq — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR was the left really moved left? dems are offering old Rep ideas that are now shot down. The right move right & so has the left

by MBurnsville — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
@KerriMPR #Citizens League has conducted dozens of budget conversations. Public wants reform in spending AND taxes. Dems shouldn't ignore

by seankershaw — November 7, 2012 at 10:02 AM
How do we work together?

We listen to what we do not want to hear. We put ourselves in our opponents shoes. We disagree w/ respect, even when we are not respected. We don't get to walk away in a huff.

by Listener — November 7, 2012 at 10:07 AM
I am a small business owner in Minnesota with 16 employees. 2012 is the first year I have made money since 2008. I was considering expanding my business, but with Democrats in charge of the House, Senate, and Governor's chair, and healthcare requirements under Obamacare once I hit 50 employees, I am changing my plans and I am going to invest my money in real estate or the stock market instead of growing my business.

by Jeff — November 7, 2012 at 10:08 AM
"The people spoke and Michele won the election...we want to move on." Jim Graves. "It was an uphill battle. When they redistricted it, it was a really red district."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:10 AM
@KerriMPR Raise effective tax rates 3%= socialism, more Obama =1000years of darkness, Hyperbole from the right=fear & misinformation?

by MBurnsville — November 7, 2012 at 10:10 AM
@KerriMPR i was voting yes on Gay marriage, yes to fixing pawlentys budget gimmicks yes to #Northstar yes to #Obamacare & yes 2 #choice

by mmerissa — November 7, 2012 at 10:10 AM
"She does communicate very well," says Graves about Bachmann and adds that maybe someone who wasn't a political neophyte - like he was - might have been able to beat her.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:11 AM
"You know, I am not a politician. But I'll never say never, but I am more of a business and a social behind-the-scenes guy." - Jim Graves on whether he will run again.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:13 AM
Kathryn Pearson from the University of Minnesota joins Kerri now.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:14 AM
Jim @Graves4Congress on @DailyCircuit now - conceding race to Bachmann; down by ~4200 votes (50.6 - 49.4%)

by webertom1 — November 7, 2012 at 10:15 AM
Susan McManus joins us now.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:18 AM
Top priorities for Congress and the President?

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs.

Last 4 years, Obama has spent all his time on things other than the economy. It should have cost him yesterday, he only won because Romney had to move so far right to win the primaries against the far right in the Republican party. There isn't a lot of room for the Republican house to compromise the way Obama presented his programs last time around. Maybe he is smarter now, but I am not sure. His speech early this morning that I watched seemed to indicate he felt he had attained a mandate for his programs for his second term. What are his programs for the second term, he spent his whole campaign demonizing Romney.

by Jeff — November 7, 2012 at 10:18 AM
Here in Minnesota, the Obama campaign had a bigger, more sophisticated organization than the Romney team. - Kathryn Pearson

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:22 AM
I think that our message should be that at last count "compromise" is not a four letter word and you have a responsibility when sent to Washington to actually get something done. I don't understand with where the congress approval rating is at why there wasn't more change as a result of the elections?

by Mitch37 — November 7, 2012 at 10:23 AM
Can anyone explain why leaving the amendments blank is a NO vote? If you leave any other vote blank, it simply isn't counted.
Why the difference?

by Dale — November 7, 2012 at 10:27 AM
"We did an effective job at having a civil discourse about why we should have freedom to marry." Sarah Walker of Minnesotans United for All Families. She also mentions that we are seeing a generational shift.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
I think the message is that it's time to grow up, dear Legislators, and work together like adults in any other job.

by Mary Myers — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
If we're still talking about this, I'm one of those people they called and asked for help canvassing, 3 days later (Saturday afternoon), I was out there, for the first time, knocking on doors of strangers. I was only about 2 miles from home, but not a familiar face. I felt like I had to do it because it was better than just arguing with my conservative friends on facebook.

by Tom — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
Today I'm disappointed and scared. Dems will have a field day with their spending programs. The Social Security fund and Medicare will run out. These better be fixed on day one as Obama says although he had 4 years to do so already. Why do Republicans have to compromise and Dems don't. Top priorities: Get our financial house in order. Don't subsidize those who don't contribute to society. Encourage people to take care of their own families.

by wilfredari — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
Education needs to be priority, including providing free community college. Train the people and they will work!

by Paul - Duluth — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
On a state level: the University must get sufficient funding that must be directed at substantially lower tuition.

by Bill Sundstrom — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
The government needs to get more involved in what really matters and enact major change. They can't create jobs as much as they can promote employment by doing two things:

Universal Health Care will take monetary stress away from struggling businesses.

by Paul - Duluth — November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
2nd priority, reduce the debt, erase the deficit. If they try to reduce the deficit by only raising taxes without significantly cutting spending, the Republican House cannot and will not go along.

by Jeff — November 7, 2012 at 10:29 AM
I want education to be the top priority. Fully funding HeadStart on national level; support all-day kindergarden and preschool on the state level. This is what will pay off in the future and create jobs now.

by BettyC — November 7, 2012 at 10:29 AM
This election was about learning to work together across the aisle including Minnesota's local races. This is about what is best for ALL of your constituents, not any particular group of special interests. Keep in mind that we put you in office and we can just as easily take you out!

by Anna — November 7, 2012 at 10:30 AM
"Public opinion moves on most issues moves at a glacial pace. Not gay marriage," says Kathryn Pearson on the speed with which opinion on gay marriage have changed.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:33 AM
End the failed "War on Drugs", end the unconstitutional Prohibition of Hemp/cannabis. Legalize same sex marriage, and change the term "marriage" to "civil union" as far as government is concerned. Listen to the people.

by David — November 7, 2012 at 10:33 AM
On a national level my #1 expectation: Immigration reform and an easing of visa requirements Central and South Americans. I want amnesty of all undocumented immigrants. I want my friends in South America to be able to visit me. They won't even apply for a VISA because almost nobody gets them and it costs more than $100 to even apply.

by Bill Sundstrom — November 7, 2012 at 10:33 AM
Vin Weber joins us now:

"Excessive partisanship comes about because parties are weaker than they used to be," Weber says. Gun control, gun rights, abortion rights, pro-life, and other single-issue groups have the power and the parties are "more driven by outside groups."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:36 AM
@KerriMPR we can thank the Vote No campaign for the turnout that returned the legislature to the DFL. This issue drove turnout and passion.

by efc — November 7, 2012 at 10:36 AM
"It wasn't that Boehner had too tight a grip on his party, it was that he couldn't deliver the caucus." - Vin Weber using Boehner's inability to deliver a budget compromise as an example of why he thinks that party leaders don't have power.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:39 AM
"I think it is unlikely that you can actually do it in 8 weeks," says Vin Weber about the fiscal cliff. But he think that they can put together an outline and a map for the next year.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:41 AM
I think the wins in Minnesota last night for the DFL and the defeat of the two amendments are a manifestation of the legacy of Paul Wellstone--and the direct work of Wellstone Action, the organization founded to teach grassroots organizing in the Wellstone tradition.

Wellstone Action now has trained a generation of candidates and organizers, many of whom are the people who led the campaigns that won yesterday. Paul Wellstone is smiling down on us today!

by Steve Share — November 7, 2012 at 10:41 AM
At LEAST I want the super rich to pay their fair share of taxes, by turning "capital gains" and "carried interest" into regular income. At MOST I want to see additional tiers of marginal income taxes to be added. For example, marginal rate 35% on incomes over $500k and 50% on incomes over $5 million. After all the top marginal rate under Pres Eisenhower was 90% and those were some of the most affluent days in the past 70 years.

by Bill Sundstrom — November 7, 2012 at 10:42 AM
Siobhan called in from Minneapolis:

"What I saw this cycle was young people coming together across races, parties, backgrounds...I am fully inspired by what I've seen."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:44 AM
The federal government's top priorities should be budget reform #1, because the current course of gov't taxing/spending is unsustainable, and that is causing private business to hoard current earnings in anticipation of some sort of budget crisis tax-hike doomsday.

The US gov't needs to set out a realistic plan for garnering enough taxes to sustain the various entitlements it intends to continue endowing, and to cut those entitlements that don't provide sufficient social benefit to warrant their continuation.

Hopefully Obama will more actively embrace the provisions of the Simpson-Bowles proposition.

Two other critical priorities: energy reform & immigration reform.

by Joe in Minneapolis — November 7, 2012 at 10:46 AM
Vin Weber says dealing with immigration is important for the GOP and the U.S. He hopes for major immigration reform.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:48 AM
I am troubled by some of the first words from President Obama: that he wants to reach across the aisle, and even sit down with Romney.

WHAT!?

Right out of the gate he's putting Republicans in a position of control. We've been down that road before--trying to compromise with people who see compromise as a dirty word.

US Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell re-trenched his opposition saying, "it's time for the president to propose solutions that actually have a chance of passing the Republican-controlled House."

Republicans lost big up and down the ballot. This is their day of reckoning. They have to adapt to the new landscape and give ground.

by Chris — November 7, 2012 at 10:49 AM
After that brief statement about same sex marriage, it occurs to me that democrats should be able to legalize same sex marriage at will, isn't that right?

If democrats have both houses of MN congress and the governor, there is no filibuster or other power that can stop the majority from writing whatever laws they want. I think that's exactly what they should do. If not now, when. I think this is an inevitable conclusion looking at the national trends, so we might as well avoid the hassle of a partisan mudfest.

I heard at least one republican strategist saying that the GOP might need to rethink it's stance on gay marriage.

by Tom — November 7, 2012 at 10:49 AM
"One of the President's main jobs is to figure out how to work with this Congress." - Vin Weber

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:50 AM
Your earlier guest from the MN republican party said they "will continue to be all about jobs, jobs, jobs" but in 2010 the got into power on the same promises, then immediately went to work on trying to amend the state constitution, NOT jobs.

by BrianC — November 7, 2012 at 10:50 AM
Romney's "47% comment from last May resonated badly," says Weber and he added that many people believed that Romney would do a better job at managing the economy, yet still didn't vote for him because they did not connect with him.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:52 AM
"I think many fall in line but it depends on the state and the governor." - Kathryn Pearson on how the ACA will move forward. She predicts you can still see state governments resist it.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:54 AM
I feel sorry for the Koch Brothers. I'm sure they're wondering what their millions got them this morning.

by Chris — November 7, 2012 at 10:54 AM
"We're never going to solve the health care 'once and for all'," says Vin Weber.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:56 AM
Corruption in the form of BIG spending (super-pacs etc.) continues to be the bain of our political system. We need a CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT to define who the people are in such a manner that synthetic entities like CORPORATIONS are NOT PEOPLE.

by Bill Sundstrom — November 7, 2012 at 10:56 AM
"There is no teacher like defeat," says Vin Weber. "I don't think that social issues were the reason that Republicans lost yesterday."

He thinks it was the economy that ruled yesterday at the polls.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 10:58 AM
I'm trying to listen to the conversation today without gagging. A lot of cackling going on about the nation's demographics changing and the Republican party needing to court these groups. What if we believe in securing our borders and not allowing lawbreakers to stay in our country? What if we believe in having a strong defense? Apparently 48.1 percent of America agrees. I guess we don't count.

by wilfredari — November 7, 2012 at 10:58 AM
I think Mr. Weber is on point about healthcare and I for one am excited to see the healthcare bill improved and its overall effects.

by Joey — November 7, 2012 at 10:58 AM
Re: the health care law, I'd rather look at making changes starting with Obamacare than look at throwing it away and starting from scratch. Everyone agrees that it's an imperfect law, but now maybe the GOP will have an opportunity to add something positive because they can't just throw it away.

by Tom — November 7, 2012 at 10:58 AM
Vin, Vin, stop the spin.

by stefn — November 7, 2012 at 10:59 AM
If the economy ruled yesterday, as Vin says, how come Obama won with the unemployment rate near 8%?

by stefn — November 7, 2012 at 11:00 AM
What a great show today. What could we do to get Vin Weber to run again? Moderate, thoughtful voices are SO REFRESHING! I wanted my votes to send these messages:

by Lanaya — November 7, 2012 at 11:03 AM
@wilfredari I heard Republicans themselves talking about the demographic change. I think they're overreacting, but to your other question, you're exercising your right to speak about your beliefs. Nobody is stopping you from doing that. Just because you don't agree with what people are saying doesn't mean your opinion doesn't count.

by Tom — November 7, 2012 at 11:03 AM
Had their been a second round of stimulus, such that local and state governments did not have to lay off thousand of workers the unemployment rate would be in the 6 to 7% range. We need another stimulus package - paid for by higher taxes on the super-rich.

by Bill Sundstrom — November 7, 2012 at 11:06 AM
I wanted my votes to send these messages.

1. Real change takes time and we are on the right track; moving in the right direction.

2. Literate, critical thinking, educated and thoughtful voters can and must defeat the bank-rolled special interests.

3. Moderate, courageous compromise must happen.

Any household knows that to balance their budget AND have a daily life that is livable they must cut spending wisely and bring in more dollars!

by Lanaya — November 7, 2012 at 11:07 AM
Professor David Canon joins Tom Weber now.

"The middle is missing," he says. "There aren't moderate Republicans, there aren't conservative Democrats."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:10 AM
"The country, as a whole, is pretty moderate," says Canon. "As constituents, we aren't that extreme. It's our politicians who are extreme."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:11 AM
Boehner quoted in The Hill:

“The American people want solutions — and tonight, they've responded by renewing our House Republican majority,” Boehner said. “With this vote, the American people have also made clear that there is no mandate for raising tax rates.”

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:12 AM
"What we have here is a game of chicken," says Canon on the fiscal cliff, but says that Democrats have the advantage since the Bush-era tax cuts will expire at the end of this year.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:13 AM
@KerriMPR What I haven’t heard today regarding the polarized congress compared to the moderate electorate is the role of party endorsements.

by peterjanelle — November 7, 2012 at 11:13 AM
"Immigration reform is definitely something that we will see this year," says Canon. "The Republicans know they cannot be a national party with their current coalition." He thinks that will be a motivation for the GOP to work on immigration reform.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:15 AM
My message to the President -- 1. no more executive orders 2. don't give up on your goal of increasing bipartisanship

by MNFinn — November 7, 2012 at 11:19 AM
Marrero's new book is Killing the American Dream

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:20 AM
"Republicans didn't look at Latinos or do outreach to them," says Pilar Marrero on this election.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:23 AM
The economy was Latinos' number one issue this election says Marrero.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:25 AM
"Immigration marked the tone of the Republican party campaign that turned Latinos off."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:26 AM
The last few attempts at immigration reform have been cumbersome and large bills. Congress can make simple changes to immigration law:

by Brian Aust — November 7, 2012 at 11:27 AM
@Brian Aust What simple changes do you want to see, Brian?

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:27 AM
My post was incomplete: 1. increase the quota limits in both family-based and employment based immigration; 2. get rid of the "unlawful presence bars" and reimplement section 245(i), which allowed persons who had entered in undocumented status or overstayed their lawful stay, to pay a fine of $1,000 and adjust here.

by Brian Aust — November 7, 2012 at 11:29 AM
Question from caller:

"What would happen to the economy if all the illegal immigrants would go on strike?"

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:29 AM
@KerriMPR right wing pundits said that the Republican party is the natural home for Latinos, what do latinos hear when they say that?

by MBurnsville — November 7, 2012 at 11:31 AM
"The labor market is not a zero-sum gain where one worker takes the place of someone else." - Pilar Marrero. She says that immigrants buy goods, add to the economy.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:32 AM
Pilar Marrero

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:33 AM
The flow of people is a net-zero because of the bad economy says Marrero.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:35 AM
"The US economy cannot support everyone who would want to move to the US," says caller. Says that it is not fair that immigrants from across the border can circumvent the system while immigrants from Russia, Asia, and other countries have to follow rules to get into the U.S.

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:39 AM
Harry Reid: #Immigration reform "very high" on priority list for next Congress tpm.ly #latism

by wsefsaf — November 7, 2012 at 11:40 AM
RT @NewConsensus: our overly complex #immigration law endangers tradition of U.S. entrepreneurship via @nytimes nyti.ms

by ASmithJones — November 7, 2012 at 11:41 AM
RT @votolatino: 1st time in history the #Latino vote made up double digits of the total vote: 10%! #wepa #dale #election2012

by Margie — November 7, 2012 at 11:43 AM
It seems to me the US needs to deal with immigration from our Southern neighbors as part of a comprehensive relationship issue. There are economic problems that drive people to look for a better life in the US - the US should do more to address the entire issue -

by Robin — November 7, 2012 at 11:44 AM
High amounts of people breaking the immigration law does not necessarily indicate there is a problem with that law & that it needs reform. Pilar, please specify a few critical changes you feel are needed and why.

by MNFinn — November 7, 2012 at 11:46 AM
The person talking did not even answer that last caller's question.

We are deporting felons that came here illegally. His point was they come here illegally. Did German Irish etc etc immigrants all come here illegally?

No.

Why is Mexico supposed to be an exception?

by Wanda — November 7, 2012 at 11:46 AM
Enforcement of the current laws have not been done for years and years when the labor market was needed and time were properous.

Now how is it fair for the workforce that supplies services and as well as economic growth that they have to go back with their kids who do not sometimes do not even know the language, How do you tell someone 15 years later that you are no longer needed and no you cannot have segway to citizenship and have a say. Immigration reform is needed that sees this and disregards the stereotypes and only create fear and misconceptions.

by Israel — November 7, 2012 at 11:47 AM
I can say unequivocally as an immigration lawyer that enforcement against undocumented immigrants is an on the ground reality. I get several calls a week from people whose relatives and friends have been arrested by police and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Removal against non-felons who are here in undocumented status is real and it is harming families.

by Brian Aust — November 7, 2012 at 11:54 AM
How important was immigration as an issue for voters this election? From Pew:

"Immigration is also less of a focus in 2012. In the new survey, 41% view the issue of immigration as very important – the lowest of 12 issues tested – compared with 52% in August 2008."

by Stephanie Curtis, MPR News — November 7, 2012 at 11:56 AM
Why are Mexicans unable to come here legally and live?

by Wanda — November 7, 2012 at 11:56 AM
Is there any point in having an immigration policy? Why not just let anyone and everyone come and stay.

by Mark — November 7, 2012 at 11:57 AM
Since illegal immigration is overwhelmingly for employment opportunities, shouldn't some sort of guest-worker + nuclear family program be created to enable present-day illegal immigrants to openly serve as part of the US economy? Ideally such a program would include long term assimilation & citizenship incentives for the guest-workers and their families. Perhaps this all could be financed by added taxes for those employers who employ such immigrant laborers, which should be an acceptable exchange for them to become able to openly employ those who the otherwiseemploy secretly.

by Joe in Minneapolis — November 7, 2012 at 11:59 AM
@Mark Right if it's okay for one country to come and live and work here and attend school illegally then all countries should be able to.

by Wanda — November 7, 2012 at 12:00 PM
Mexicans can immigrate, but the wait times are extraordinary if the petition is filed by a spouse who is a permanent resident or for an adult child or sibling. www.travel.state.gov Spouses and children of US Citizens are always able to immigrate quickly. I have a lot of clients who are from Mexico and are married to a US Citizen. However, because he or she intitially entered without inspection, they have to go back to Mexico to apply for their status. This process is lengthy and they have to go to Ciudad Juarez, considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world.

by Brian Aust — November 7, 2012 at 12:02 PM
Thank you @KerriMPR & @PilarMarrero for an informative conversation on immigration policy in past, present, and future on @dailycircuit!

by Impact Strategies — November 7, 2012 at 12:02 PM