News Releases
Absentee Ballot Update
Minnesota Report
The Secretary of State’s website shows the total of requested and accepted ballots.
Statewide Counts
- Applications submitted (10/17/24): 706,344
- Accepted ballots (10/17/24): 337,633
Remembering Paul Wellstone
Minnesota Report
It is often a melancholy time in late October for those who recall the tragic death of US Senator Paul Wellstone (D-MN) his wife Sheila, daughter Marcia, DFL Party Associate Chair Mary McEvoy, staffer Will McLaughlin and pilot Tom Lapic.
There will be a remembrance on Friday, October 25th, at 10:00 am at 7343 Bodes Road located in rural Eveleth.
Secretary of State Release of Early Voting Numbers
Minnesota Report
With twenty-five days until the November 5th 2024, General Election, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon’s (DFL) office released the figures accumulated to date for early voting.
There were 609,239 applications submitted and 220,006 ballots accepted as of October 10th 2024 or 37.09%.
| 2016 Sent | 2016 Accepted | 2020 Sent | 2020 Accepted | 2024 Sent | 2024 Accepted | |
| Week 1 | 150,488 | 14,225 | 1,246,810 | 75,511 | 431,502 | 32,788 |
| Week 2 | 209,197 | 46,467 | 1,410,010 | 336,017 | 526,285 | 107,421 |
| Week 3 | 270,984 | 88,593 | 1,539,250 | 635,003 | 616,333 | 220,006 |
The historic results of vote by mail and absentee voting, last updated 10/03/2024, are available here. https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote/cities-and-towns-that-vote-by-mail/
Remember Minnesota passed no-excuse absentee voting in 2014. Currently, there are 28 states with no-excuse absentee voting. Here is the list from the National Conference of State Legislators.
2024:Takeaways From the Vice-Presidential Debate
National Report
The debate scored points with the electorate by being a civil engagement between two professional politicians. There nearly genial exchange was not as billed or as expected because of the tenor and tone of the conversation was not a series of personal attacks or venal digs at one another, but rather a discussion of two far different perspectives for America.
By most indicators, the debate was a draw, and somewhat of an underwhelming exercise in democracy. In what is normally seen as a required event, but never viewed as having a high impact on the outcome of the Presidential race, the debate was a wash. There was no distinct or clear winner. It was pretty much a virtual tie. It was an educational lesson in civics, although each candidate was appealing to a different audience.
Contrary to what prior to the night, people in the punditry class believed, US Senator JD Vance (R-OH) was the pit bull, or the attack dog, appealing not just to an audience of one, Donald J Trump (R), but also his wife, mother, and the 33 Class I incumbent US Senators and candidates, plus the Nebraska Class II seat vacated by US Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE), and the Republican House incumbents and candidates. This politicians in this limited audience continue look for the lead from Trump and his primary surrogate in Vance for their direction. With Trump the Republican party is no longer the party of Abraham Lincoln, and without Trump it is rudderless.
For Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) he appeared to be attempting to not make any unforced errors, and instead of having poignant, impactful comments like “These guys are just weird” he sounded more like the Social Studies Teacher giving a civics lesson. His lack of playing the attack dog, and staunch advocate for Vice-President Kamala Harris (D) seemed to be clearly lacking. He started a bit unsettled, but gained his stride as the discussion turned to questions about differences in the two public policies. His audience was the Independent voters who have not signed up for either camp yet.
If we were to make a sports analogy, Walz was reminiscent of the Minnesota Gophers under Jim Wacker, which we swear his offense would sit on the ball in the fourth quarter, play prevent defense and frequently lost.
In the end, the few takeaways are Vance sees Trump as his meal ticket should their side win, and win or lose, his route to his own Presidential Candidacy in 2028, unless Trump causes—as a we expect—a Constitutional Crisis and refuses to vacate. He seems to differ from Vice-President Mike Pence (R) and though we will never truly know, but can only speculate, would have not certified the election. He falsely said Trump acceded to a peaceful transfer of power, which the Insurrection he caused on January 6th, proves to be a lie.
Since Walz called him out on this point, and the fact it occurred late in the debate, may have provided the Independent voters with the comfort they needed to hear and information to secure their vote on November 5th.
As a result, the Harris/Walz Campaign has put out an ad utilizing this debate exchange.
MSNBC has a segment on this clear takeaway on the new ad. https://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/watch/harris-campaign-releases-ad-on-vance-s-response-to-trump-s-2020-election-loss-220664389524
Continuing Concerns About Microsoft’s Anti-Competitive Behavior
National Report
In 1998, the Department of Justice (DOJ) during the Clinton Administration sued Microsoft for Antitrust violations, and in 2000, Justice Thomas Penfield Jackson found them to be guilty in a number of ways. https://www.justice.gov/atr/us-v-microsoft-courts-findings-fact
Principally, the company participated in:
-
Providing false and misleading statements
-
Tampering with evidence, an example being executive emails
-
Caused Courtroom distractions
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Violated the trial judge’s established impermissible ex parte contacts, such as secret interviews with the media
Microsoft was able to secure a softer settlement with the Bush Administration DOJ but he key finding that remained were upheld and Microsoft was ordered to:
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Not force restrictive contracts on industry partners
-
Open some of its technology to outsiders
-
Give software and hardware companies the same programming interfaces as Microsoft middleware
The problem is the company continues to exercise these anti-competitive practices and these now, are worth considering as a threat to national security.
Microsoft’s monopolistic licensing practices across Microsoft 365 and Azure leverage the company’s massive market share to stifle innovation and limit competition. By bundling services and creating an ecosystem where these platforms work seamlessly together, Microsoft effectively locks in users, making it costly and disruptive for businesses to switch to competitors. Restrictive licensing agreements and cloud interoperability limitations further reinforce Microsoft’s control, preventing smaller competitors from gaining a foothold and reducing the incentive for new entrants to innovate in both the software and cloud services markets.
Microsoft’s dominant market position particularly as it relates to its cloud (Azure) and productivity software (Office 365) has raised concerns abroad. For example, the United Kingdom is investigating Microsoft’s hiring of AI staff as they look to build their new AI division and the E.U. has charged Microsoft with antitrust violations for its licensing behavior. Furthermore, South Africa is investigating the company over its cloud computing licensing programs.
Due to Microsoft’s dominant market share, the company has grown lax in its attention to its Cybersecurity. As you’ll recall, in 2023 China hacked Microsoft and stole thousands of emails from key American officials. The Department of Homeland Security’s Safety Review Board criticized the company for its “shoddy Cybersecurity practices, a lax corporate culture and a deliberate lack of transparency.” The aforementioned hack leaked emails from numerous top American officials which showed our nation’s over reliance on the company’s productivity software. Microsoft’s anti-competitive behavior has led to Cybersecurity issues that threaten our national data. It’s well past time for these practices to be investigated and addressed. I urge you both to call on the Federal Trade Commission to investigate Microsoft’s anti-competitive licensing practices and use the Senate’s investigatory powers to address Microsoft’s monopolistic behavior.
2024 Pre-General Election Campaign Finance Reports
Minnesota Report Here are the financial resources available to the two major political parties and their respective Legislative Caucuses. In this election a key race to watch which will determine the legislative majority is the open seat, Special Election in Senate District 45. Here, is where the Senate Caucuses Campaign are significant factors worth noting….
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Candidates Wolgamott and Ek are Each, Seeking a Shot at Redemption
Minnesota Report In December of 2005, the MN Supreme Court Ruled House Candidate Sue Ek (R-MN) ineligible as a candidate for the House seat 15B, do to her failure to reside in the district 60-days prior to the filing period. This means the highest court in our state, proven Ms Ek to be a bold-faced…
This content is for Annual General Subscription, Annual Premium Subscription, Congressional Daybook and News Release Contributor, Monthly General Subscription, Monthly Premium Subscription, PAC or Independent Expenditure Organization Daybook and News Release Contributor, and Statewide Political Party or Caucus Daybook and News Release Contributor members only.
Commemorating 9/11
National & Minnesota Report
The pain never leaves, the visual of the United Airlines Flight 175 banking left and careening into the South Tower of the World Trade Center will never be forgotten. It played like a movie, but the problem is it was real.
On September 11th, 2021, we wrote the This Day of Tragedy which reflected our sentiments at the time.
Kamala Harris Has Presidential Chops
National & Minnesota Report
In our story, prior to the Vice-President Kamala Harris (D) and Donald J Trump (R) debate we knew it would be a telling event, and it was. As we said, Harris needed to establish she had Presidential Chops, and she did. In boxing terms, she mugged the guy. He was out of his league and in fact he looked more like the Grinch Who Stole Christmas than the cat who ate the canary.
The Prosecutor v the Felon Part I was a masterful work of watching Trump be dismantled. At each turn, when Harris scored her virtual body blows, they seemed almost physical. We were reminded of the old arcade game Punch Out, which each time the opponent is hit below the chin, the game announces “Body Blow”!
In this case, the battle of Kamala “Childless Cat Lady” Harris v Donald “The Diapered Don” Trump was a massacre. She wiped the floor with his ass.
He looked tired, and took on the role of the doddering old man, outclassed by the more youthful and vibrant opponent. While he answered questions, he was poised behind his microphone, leading with his chin. He transposed himself, with President Joe Biden (D) who looked like he was destined for a knockout blow and instead needed to throw in the towel.
The memorable takeaways for us were when Harris said he had sold us out to China. Harris says Trump ‘sold us out on China’ and when he reiterated the bizarre unsubstantiated claim first made by his running mate US Senator JD Vance (R-OH) about Haitian Immigrants eating people’s pet in Springfield, OH. This is the Trump video on it from the debate.
When Harris’ running mate, our Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) first called Trump and Vance, “Weird” and members of the He Man Woman Haters Club it caught on, because they are.
We were early adopter of the weird concept, except we called Trump Bizzarro back in 2020. Since Trump’s Contraction of COVID, We Have Been Waiting for His Superman Declaration, and He Delivered
The one telling factor on who won and who lost is Trump when into the Spin Room to try and salvage something from his failed effort, and Harris left to celebrate with supporters. The bulk of the Trump surrogates and he himself have been kvetching about the television network and the moderators ABC’s David Muir and Linsey Davis.
Taylor Swift Endorsement and Her Political Weight
A major endorsement followed the debate when on Instagram, Taylor Swift while holding Benjamin Buttons posted the following.
Like many of you, I watched the debate tonight. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to do your research on the issues at hand and the stances these candidates take on the topics that matter to you the most. As a voter, I make sure to watch and read everything I can about their proposed policies and plans for this country.
Recently I was made aware that AI of ‘me’ falsely endorsing Donald Trump’s presidential run was posted to his site. It really conjured up my fears around AI, and the dangers of spreading misinformation. It brought me to the conclusion that I need to be very transparent about my actual plans for this election as a voter. The simplest way to combat misinformation is with the truth.
I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election. I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos. I was so heartened and impressed by her selection of running mate @timwalz, who has been standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, IVF, and a woman’s right to her own body for decades.
I’ve done my research, and I’ve made my choice. Your research is all yours to do, and the choice is yours to make. I also want to say, especially to first time voters: Remember that in order to vote, you have to be registered! I also find it’s much easier to vote early. I’ll link where to register and find early voting dates and info in my story.
With love and hope,
Taylor Swift
Childless Cat Lady
After her concert series in Minneapolis, in October 2023—when President Joe Biden (D) was still in the race—we wrote this article which recognized the (political) force of Taylor Swift. One Person Who Could Run as a Third-Party Candidate for President and Win. Taylor Swift
Republican Vice-Presidential candidate US Sen JD Vance (R-OH) originally, made his infamous Childless Cat Ladies remark with Tucker Carlson on FoxNews.
Now hopefully, we will get to see, The Prosecutor v the Felon Part II. Which if it occurs could be a good as the Godfather Part II with 17 wins & 21 nominations, which is by some measures the sequel outpaces the original Godfather Part I with its 31 wins & 31 nominations, we disagree, but fully believe Godfather Part III, sucked.
If we do not get a second Presidential Debate we’ll just have to settle for the Vice-Presidential Debate on October 1st.
The Potential Significant Effects of Sex and Age Could Have in the Seven Swing Voter States
National & Minnesota Report
When Checks & Balances started in 1995, our focus was on the Swing Voter. We decided, in this Presidential Election, based on the constant barrage of news reports of the closeness outcome, and the prognostication, it was worth analyzing the potential factors which could determine the results. We have concluded Age and Gender might be the essential elements.
Hence, this is the reason we have provided a spreadsheet of the Presidential Popular Vote results in each of the seven swing states AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA and WI from 2008-2020. Additionally, w have broken down the Census figures from 2022 by four different age brackets to show how different ages could also impact the results in their states. Now, because these are historical numbers they will not be completely precise, but they clearly will provide a perspective. Sure, some people have died, some new people have moved into the state and the different rules for voter registration may have changed, especially, in Georgia, in which the recent Republican appointees on their election board is pursuing changes as we write this.
When looking at the population of men and women from 2022, we can get a general perspective on the percentages of each. Additionally, because women vote more often than men, and when compared to the total population. The non-voting group is based on ineligibility due to age below 18, non-citizens, non-registered eligible voters and convicted felons.
In this election, it could truly become the Year of the Woman. Since AZ, GA, MI, NC and PA, all have higher percentages of women in their state, and women vote in higher instances, all other factors being equal, Harris may have an advantage based on gender. The differences then come down to three other factors, which political party they identify with or whether or not they consider themselves to be Independents.
As you can see below, some states are showing a party difference, but we think the gender of the respondents are a major factor.
CBS News Poll
|
State |
Democrat |
Republican |
Difference |
|
Michigan |
89% |
78% |
11% |
|
Pennsylvania |
82% |
75% |
7% |
|
Wisconsin |
87% |
76% |
11% |
The 93 Electoral College votes in these states will be penultimate to deciding the final outcome and the debate performance tonight will likely become the essential element in determining how the electorate feels toward each of these candidates. Because Trump is largely already defined, it will be up to Harris to delineate herself and buttress against anything Trump throws at her to prove her Presidential Chops.
In the race to 270, and each camp being in the low 200’s, any variance between these states will have a significant impact. The biggest prize clearly is Pennsylvania, but the various combinations play out like an algebraic formula. Here are the differentials.
|
State |
Electoral College Vote |
% Men |
% Women |
|
AZ |
11 |
51.44% |
51.47% |
|
GA |
16 |
49.70% |
52.17% |
|
MI |
15 |
49.62% |
50.38% |
|
NC |
16 |
48.88% |
51.12% |
|
NV |
6 |
50.35% |
49.65% |
|
PA |
19 |
49.34% |
50.66% |
|
WI |
10 |
50.21% |
49.79% |
Click here to see the state-by-state breakdown of the 2022 Electoral College Votes
On the question of Age, in 2008, the number of the youth vote was higher than the senior citizen vote for the first time in our nation. In this election, because of issues like abortion, marijuana legalization and student loan forgiveness the youth vote is a potential factor, but also the War in Gaza might impinge this block of support, especially if Donald J Trump is perceived better on the issue than is Vice-President Kamala Harris.
2008-2020 Electoral Results in the 7 Swing State Presidential Election
The additional factors of running mate selection, might play a role, if the 2nd Congressional District in Nebraska plays a role and since our Governor Tim Walz (D) was born in the Cornhusker State, Omaha might be paying closer attention. For the record, this district does normally vote for the Democratic candidate.
Favorite sons can play a role, in 2008 US Sen John McCain (R-AZ) carried his state, but in 2012US Sen Mitt Romney (R-UT) was not able to carry his birth state of Michigan, in spite of the fact his father was a former governor.
2018 State Fair Polls
Once again, we attended the Great-Minnesota-Get-Together and stopped by the legislative booths in the Education Building. We collected the Annual Polls from the House and Senate. As we have said, this often is an indicator of where the majorities legislative...
NPR Censors Opposition Comments on RCV
The NPR show 1A ran a program on Ranked Choice Voting today, and Checks & Balances Publisher Shawn Towle sought a spot on the panel. When called back by producer Andi McDaniel he was informed the panel was full but could submit a comment through the voicemail...
Corroborating Information on the Knoblach Story
Last year, we published a controversial and disturbing piece on House Ways & Means Chairman, Jim Knoblach (R-14B, St Cloud) regarding claims made by his daughter on her Facebook...
Pawlenty’s Second Deferral (He called us first with the news.)
Originally posted April 20, 2001 When the Vice-President of the United States calls someone who may believe is the person actually in charge, you stop and take notice. So seems to have been with the state House Majority Leader Tim Pawlenty (R – 38B,...
Does Checks & Balances Deserve Credit/Blame for Bachmann’s Political Rise?
Originally published April 04, 2000 Original Title: Another Change in Parties? KSTP talk radio host Jason Lewis openly speculated on his program about the possibility of other members of the legislature leaving the Republican Party for greener pastures with the DFL....
2017 House State Fair Poll
Minnesota Report Official Ballot Minnesota House of Representatives 2017 State Fair Poll Question 1. Should handheld cell phone use be illegal when operating a motor vehicle, except in emergency situations?...
Rep Jim Knoblach Facing Allegations of Sexual Abuse by Daughter
Some disturbing information has come to our attention, alleging Rep. Jim Knoblach (R-14B, St Cloud) engaged in an abusive relationship with his daughter Laura, which if true are damning. We have received screenshots from her personal Facebook page, which has since...
2016 House State Fair Poll
We at Checks & Balances are continuing our tradition of publishing the State Fair Polls found at the State Fair booths in the Education Building. Official Ballot Minnesota House of Representatives 2016 State Fair Poll Question 1. Do you support an increase in the...
Legislative Return/Special Session 2020
Minnesota Report We are hearing the legislature will likely be recalled for Special Session June 12th, which is just before Governor Tim Walz’ (DFL-MN) last peacetime emergency declaration is set to expire. In order to declare another one, he will need to receive...
Alcohol From Restaurant to You
Minnesota Report The House and the Senate have agreed to allow alcohol sales to be purchased from restaurants, during the COVID-19 crisis, but only beer and wine. The problem with this is with liquor stores still open the cost will be higher without an added benefit,...
Caution is the Best Medicine
Minnesota Report As Donald J Trump (R) continues to discuss his preparation and planning, combined with his pressure to open up the United States for business again on May 1st, he does so in a potential conflict with the state’s governors. Here in Minnesota, he will...
What to Expect from the Legislature Today?
Minnesota Report The agenda for the legislature is limited and focused on issues surrounding the COVID-19 Virus and there are a number of ways it is adversely affecting our state. A view of the times for consideration by the House Rules and Legislative Administration...
What the House Looks Like During COVID-19
Minnesota Report Watching yesterday’s proceedings of the Minnesota House of Representatives during the passage of extension of Worker’s Compensation Benefits to First-Responders and other personnel who contract COVID-19 in the course of doing their jobs, was an...
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