2010 DFL Precinct Caucuses and the Straw Poll

The consensus picks for tonight straw poll appear to be Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL-60A, Minneapolis), Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak (DFL) or Rep. Paul Thissen (DFL-63A, Minneapolis). DFLers are forced to make a choice otherwise vote Uncommitted. This means...

The End Game Cometh

In preparation for the final hours of the 2007-08 legislative session, we thought some of the conversations we have had with members were worth noting. The Governor Tim Pawlenty (R-MN) linchpin of the tax bill is the 3.9% cap on property taxes. This is generally...

The Futility of Debating Hypotheticals

It started in the State Senate when Sen Dave Kleis (R–16, St. Cloud) arose on the floor to challenge the proposed map for legislative district brought forward by Sen Larry Pogemiller (DFL–59, Minneapolis). Kleis read into the record criticisms of the plan by former...

Hey Senator, Take Your Tie Off

Last night, during the debate on the State Government Finance Bill Rep Tom Rukavina (DFL-05A, Virginia) was able to amend the House Rules and create parity between the House and Senate. The Rules for dress code by the members of the state House are far more lenient...

Another Redistricting Solution?

There has been a consistent current of speculation about the future of Sen. Majority Leader Roger Moe (DFL–02, Erskine). Rumors have been circulating for years about his pending departure.  We think we may have figured out a scenario, in which Moe again can save the...