Former Republican Staffer Doing Debate Prep with DFL Candidate

Now, we don’t want to appear to be picking on Sen. David Hann (R-48, Eden Prairie), but there is so much material to work with, we just can’t help ourselves. Here is a bit of poetic justice. Former Senate staffer, who worked in communications and research under Hann,...

Hann’s Missed Opportunity

In Minnesota politics, the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) are usually a safe endorsement for incumbent legislators. Their endorsement usually comes with some money and independent expenditure support. This year we understand Sen. David Hann...

Senate Republicans Planning for Hann Loss

We learned today the MN Senate Republican Caucus is taking steps to preparing for a loss by Senate Minority Leader David Hann (R-48, Edenn Prairie) in November. We understand they have selected Assistant Majority Sen. Michelle Benson (R-31, Ham Lake) to step into the...

In the Battle for Political $$ the DFL Leads Handily

The campaign finance reports for the various political entities are out and we have assembled a breakdown of the numbers for your perusal. Republican Party of MN Cash Collected                  601,753.81 In-Kind Contributions     230,911.35 Total...

Where is the DFL House’s Environmental Agenda?

It would seem logical that the DFL should be regularly banging the drum on behalf of the environment. When Republican candidates often are climate change deniers, and obstructionists when it comes to dealing with issues like pollinators and ditch buffers. It even...

Because of Trump, the DFL Senate Majority is Expanding its Target List

The 2016 Target List for the DFL was originally set at 24 and has now been expanded to 26. Additionally, four other seats have risen to higher priorities and more likely victories because of the candidacy of Donald J. Trump (R). Recent polling reveals a far stronger...

Senate Republicans Are Actively Engaged in their Own Targeting Efforts

Recent opposition mailers have hit in the districts of Sen. Rod Skoe (DFL-02, Clearbrook), Sen. Kent Eken (DFL-04, Twin Valley), Sen. Lyle Koenen (DFL-17, Clara City), Sen. Vicki Jensen (DFL-24, Owatonna, and Sen. Matt Schmit (DFL-21, Red Wing). The expectation is...

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...