Adam --

The idea for this column really has more to do with everyone thinking one way (the technical definition of "groupthink") rather than saying everyone should think the other way.

The impetus is that while the public has lined up on one side, journalists who are taking a stand are all on the other. That disconnect interested me, and would if it were the other way around. (I'd probably have said an all-opponent line-up was too easily falling into the demagogue pandering.)...

Mike - credentials are good for a session.

Bill - Michael acquitted himself honorably in the working group, as did all the other members. Really, it was quite professional.

Frankly, most of the ideas/initiatives/concepts came from me or Mitch, so I didn't feel like we were being used. The Senate staff mostly pounded our principles into procedure, which I signed off on. I didn't see partisan game-playing.

Obviously, final chapter not written, but so far so good and I'm...

Hal - I pointedly did not endorse Dayton's plan because it's not really my point.

My point is we are at the Rubicon. Election's over. One has to balance the budget, and has to show their work. Saying "his taxes are too high" is sophistry unless you say "here's what I'd do instead."

Negotiating position? Sure, could well be. But the point is that Dayton is the only one whose math works. It's up to other comers to prove their "seriousness" with detail. This is the honest way for...

Fluffy - just for the record, it's HIPAA. I think as far as Kahn's bill being a violation, remember the feds are proposing an even less restrictive rule (see previous story). I'd guess Kahn's bill would instantly allow such look-sees in the event the feds change their standard.