Dayton announces fund ‘winners,’ scolds Legislature, lobbies for more bonding
The governor pointed to the 90 applications totaling $288 million as evidence of the need for further investment.
James Nord
James Nord covers politics and the Minnesota Legislature.
Planning for Minnesota’s health insurance exchange at risk of faltering
As federal deadlines approach, business groups have joined conservative Republicans in criticizing what they say is a lack of transparency in specifics for the project.
Will the voting amendment dismantle Minnesota’s current election system?
Secretary of State Mark Ritchie and other opponents say it would significantly change absentee balloting and same-day registration. Proponents, though, vigorously disagree.
Amendments likely to face more political and legal hurdles even if they pass
One expert says “significant post-election litigation,” as well as routine politics, could prevent either amendment from ever taking effect.
Supreme Court affirms legislative control of constitutional amendment process
As a result, the voting amendment will stay on the ballot and both it and the marriage amendment will carry their original titles.
‘Pre-formatted’ special session wraps up disaster relief aid quickly
In about two hours, the Minnesota Legislature overwhelmingly passed a nearly $170 million package to help Duluth and other areas ravaged by June storms.
One-day special session on disaster relief starts at 2 p.m. Friday
An agreement signed by the leaders prohibits amendments to the $167.5 million package.
Rep. Gauthier to continue campaign — but with no help from DFL or legislative colleagues
DFLers further cut ties Wednesday after the Duluth Democrat’s announcement.
VP Joe Biden touts Obama accomplishments with ‘bumper sticker’ message
His shorthand message for supporters: “Osama bin Laden is dead, and General Motors is alive.”
Dayton chooses Appeals Court Judge Wilhemina Wright as his first Supreme Court pick
She credits two justices — Alan Page, the state’s first justice of color, and Rosalie Wahl, the first female justice — for opening up the opportunity for her to serve.
DFL leaders call on Rep. Gauthier to give up re-election bid
House Minority Leader Paul Thissen and DFL Chair Ken Martin are the latest critics of Gauthier’s behavior.
Mayors Rybak, Coleman blast Photo ID as needless expense in tight times
The DFL mayors of Minnesota’s two largest cities called the amendment an unfunded mandate for cash-strapped municipalities.
Campaign board allows Catholic to keep confidential his anti-marriage amendment donation
In a rare move, it said his identity could remain confidential because he fears losing his employment with the Catholic Church, which supports the measure.
Federal judge denies lawsuit effort to change Minnesota’s voting procedures
The lawsuit would have enacted sweeping changes to Minnesota’s election system, including Election Day voter registration.
DFL wants probe of alleged Senate GOP politicking on taxpayer time
Chairman Ken Martin said GOP candidates appeared to be using a publicly funded room as the “Senate Republicans’ new campaign office.”
Minnesota’s 9% primary turnout is second lowest in 60 years
The only lower turnout during that period was in 2004, when 7.73 percent of eligible voters took part.
Vice President Joe Biden to visit Minnesota
He reportedly will host two state campaign events Tuesday.
Obama surrogates’ ‘Heartland Tour’ rolling through Minnesota
By its completion on Friday, the bus tour will have made more than 21 stops.
Tea Party leader ousts longtime GOP Rep. Steve Smith
Results were mixed, though, in three legislative races considered a test of strength for the Republican Party’s most conservative members.
GOP uniting behind victorious Allen Quist after bruising 1st District fight
His opponent, Mike Parry, pledged support in efforts to defeat incumbent Congressman Tim Walz.
