There aare lots of people at Minneapolis Convention Center in Downtown Minneapolis. The mood are very festuve.
This morning I saw a Emmer supporter bringing pig around when I arrived to MCC. There was less people unlikely last week when I got to Duluth Entrainment Convention Center.
People was very polite and respectful to me and I wanted to say thank to Sheldon Anderson, who is Mayor of Wyoming MN/House candidate for House District 17 and Anne Neu from Chip Cravaack campaign for getting me on the floor since guest passes are all out.
Several of my co workers from the Cspitol, lobbyist and media are here as well.
My top boss, Gov. Tim Pawlenty is speaking and thanking everyone for their support and volunteering on his past campaigns. Also thanked everyone for his service as Governor.
I have been taking pictures and walking around to see whats going on.
Met children of Rhonda Siverjah who is running mate of Marty Siefert. They are very nice people.
Gonna check out all excitment when I come back from my meeting in St. Paul.
Friday, April 30, 2010
R.T. Rybak: Bigger holes to fill
Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak looked back on his failed attempt to win the DFL's nod for governor and looked ahead to tackling the city's problems, including those nasty potholes.
By STEVE BRANDT, Star Tribune
Last update: April 28, 2010
His voice is still hoarse from last weekend's DFL convention, and R.T. Rybak is nursing it this week with mugs of tea.
Back in his Minneapolis City Hall office, he says he's relieved that two years of compartmentalizing his life between the duties of a mayor and the grind of campaigning for governor are over. He says that even focusing on potholes is refreshing.
"It's a little like taking a duplex and turning it into a single-family house," Rybak said this week, reflecting after finishing runner-up to House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher for DFL endorsement Saturday in Duluth. "I'm taking one side out of my brain and filling it with the other."
Does he still want to be governor? That depends on circumstances.
"I'm open to it,'' he said. "It won't have much to do with me having a personal ambition. If I died tomorrow, I would be incredibly fulfilled knowing I got to be mayor of Minneapolis. I don't need another notch on my professional belt.
"I ran for governor because the state was in such a mess and ... that jeopardizes everything we've accomplished, so whether I do something again will depend on large part on whether the state gets straightened out and whether the issues I care about get fixed."
What about Congress, if a Democrat there moved on?
Rybak, an early and tireless Barack Obama supporter, said he's not ruling anything out, but added: "My place in public service is as an executive and as far as Washington goes, I had a great opportunity to go to Washington when President Obama got elected. ... [My wife] Megan and I talked about that and we're Minnesotans."
Why he didn't get endorsed
He said a major factor in losing his endorsement bid was because he couldn't overcome the loyalty of super-delegates to Kelliher, whom he has pledged to support. Those were the convention's 190 state and federal elected and party officials.
Endorsements of her by Sen. John Marty and Rep. Tom Rukavina as they dropped out helped to seal the deal.
Others say that building trades' hostility to Rybak cost him votes, as well as his inability to convert his lead within a band of progressive Democrats known as ReNEW Minnesota to the 60 percent threshold needed to bind its bloc of delegates.
Some were surprised that he couldn't draw more overt support from Obama and his operatives. Rukavina's fiery speech also may have siphoned off some delegates early on. Some Rybakers complain privately that some Minneapolis legislators bad-mouthed his mayoralty.
Still, some say the urban mayor proved political viability statewide, and that it's no shame to finish second in a crowded field. "His ability to motivate and inspire people are tremendous attributes," said Dan McGrath, executive director of TakeAction Minnesota, a progressive political arm.
Training for the future
Rybak said his new statewide contacts will help Minneapolis at the state level, where a negative perception of the state's biggest city has sometimes prevailed.
He's also building some political chits. He'll return to Montgomery's Kolacky Days contest in July, not only for the rubber match in his kolacky-eating contest with that city's mayor, Mick McGuire, but also to stump in the parade for McGuire's legislative bid.
On a personal level, odds are that he might be spotted in an antique store as he restores equilibrium to his personal life. "Megan has built up many chits that I'm sure she'll cash in," he explained. You may also spot him training for the two or three triathlons he hopes to enter after limiting himself to one last summer while campaigning for mayor.
Inside City Hall, Rybak's relatively painless supplemental 2010 budget, which accommodates new state aid cuts, is expected to pass Friday. He'll go from there to meet with department heads to craft his 2011 proposal. Job creation and youth are tops on his agenda.
He's working with other mayors and business on regional competitiveness issues, working with St. Paul on developing green manufacturing jobs, and developing jobs from his homegrown food initiative. He's beating the bushes for more summer jobs for teens, reassessing the city's youth violence prevention effort, looking for college money for city high school graduates and working with others to revive the state's bid for competitively awarded federal school dollars.
"I planned to work on all of these issues some way. But it was unclear whether I'd be doing that as a mayor or a governor," he said. "Now it's quite clear that I'll be doing it from here and it's OK."
Steve Brandt • 612-673-4438
By STEVE BRANDT, Star Tribune
Last update: April 28, 2010
His voice is still hoarse from last weekend's DFL convention, and R.T. Rybak is nursing it this week with mugs of tea.
Back in his Minneapolis City Hall office, he says he's relieved that two years of compartmentalizing his life between the duties of a mayor and the grind of campaigning for governor are over. He says that even focusing on potholes is refreshing.
"It's a little like taking a duplex and turning it into a single-family house," Rybak said this week, reflecting after finishing runner-up to House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher for DFL endorsement Saturday in Duluth. "I'm taking one side out of my brain and filling it with the other."
Does he still want to be governor? That depends on circumstances.
"I'm open to it,'' he said. "It won't have much to do with me having a personal ambition. If I died tomorrow, I would be incredibly fulfilled knowing I got to be mayor of Minneapolis. I don't need another notch on my professional belt.
"I ran for governor because the state was in such a mess and ... that jeopardizes everything we've accomplished, so whether I do something again will depend on large part on whether the state gets straightened out and whether the issues I care about get fixed."
What about Congress, if a Democrat there moved on?
Rybak, an early and tireless Barack Obama supporter, said he's not ruling anything out, but added: "My place in public service is as an executive and as far as Washington goes, I had a great opportunity to go to Washington when President Obama got elected. ... [My wife] Megan and I talked about that and we're Minnesotans."
Why he didn't get endorsed
He said a major factor in losing his endorsement bid was because he couldn't overcome the loyalty of super-delegates to Kelliher, whom he has pledged to support. Those were the convention's 190 state and federal elected and party officials.
Endorsements of her by Sen. John Marty and Rep. Tom Rukavina as they dropped out helped to seal the deal.
Others say that building trades' hostility to Rybak cost him votes, as well as his inability to convert his lead within a band of progressive Democrats known as ReNEW Minnesota to the 60 percent threshold needed to bind its bloc of delegates.
Some were surprised that he couldn't draw more overt support from Obama and his operatives. Rukavina's fiery speech also may have siphoned off some delegates early on. Some Rybakers complain privately that some Minneapolis legislators bad-mouthed his mayoralty.
Still, some say the urban mayor proved political viability statewide, and that it's no shame to finish second in a crowded field. "His ability to motivate and inspire people are tremendous attributes," said Dan McGrath, executive director of TakeAction Minnesota, a progressive political arm.
Training for the future
Rybak said his new statewide contacts will help Minneapolis at the state level, where a negative perception of the state's biggest city has sometimes prevailed.
He's also building some political chits. He'll return to Montgomery's Kolacky Days contest in July, not only for the rubber match in his kolacky-eating contest with that city's mayor, Mick McGuire, but also to stump in the parade for McGuire's legislative bid.
On a personal level, odds are that he might be spotted in an antique store as he restores equilibrium to his personal life. "Megan has built up many chits that I'm sure she'll cash in," he explained. You may also spot him training for the two or three triathlons he hopes to enter after limiting himself to one last summer while campaigning for mayor.
Inside City Hall, Rybak's relatively painless supplemental 2010 budget, which accommodates new state aid cuts, is expected to pass Friday. He'll go from there to meet with department heads to craft his 2011 proposal. Job creation and youth are tops on his agenda.
He's working with other mayors and business on regional competitiveness issues, working with St. Paul on developing green manufacturing jobs, and developing jobs from his homegrown food initiative. He's beating the bushes for more summer jobs for teens, reassessing the city's youth violence prevention effort, looking for college money for city high school graduates and working with others to revive the state's bid for competitively awarded federal school dollars.
"I planned to work on all of these issues some way. But it was unclear whether I'd be doing that as a mayor or a governor," he said. "Now it's quite clear that I'll be doing it from here and it's OK."
Steve Brandt • 612-673-4438
Thursday, April 29, 2010
2010 INDEPENDENCE PARTY STATE CONVENTION IS SET FOR MAY 8
Minnesota Independence Party Convention website
The 2010 Independence Party State Convention will be held on Saturday, May 8th at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota. The Convention Schedule is:
•9:00-10:00am Registration
•10:00am Call to order (Proposed convention rules.)
•12:00-1:00pm - Lunch break (You must order box lunch before May 5th! Order Online!)
•1:00 pm Resume Convention Business
•4:30pm (or earlier) Adjourn
First up on the agenda will be proposed changes to the Minnesota Independence Party Constitution.
The second order of business will be to fill an open at-large position on the State Party Executive Committee. The newly elected Executive Committee member will serve until next year's convention when all at-large representatives will be up for election. If you are interested or i you have any questions please contact our State Party Director Kari Johnson-Robinson at karijohnson.robinsonip@gmail.com or 612-290-4296.
At the lunch break you are encouraged to remain on campus and meet IP candidates including our gubenatorial candidates! Please note that the only lunch available on campus will be the box lunches that must be pre-ordered by the IP. Box lunches are $10.00 each (turkey, tuna or egg salad sandwich). You can purchase your box lunch online or send a check with your order to the MNIP at PO BOX 40495, St. Paul, MN 55104. Please remember to include your sandwich selection on your check.
This is a great opportunity to make a small contribution to support the cost of this convention. Unlike the other parties, the IP remains free of special interest money and our convention is funded solely by your contribution. Consider sending an additional $5.00 with your box lunch order or make a contribution separately here.
Following lunch, we will begin consideration of candidates who are competing for the Independence Party endorsement! We will hear from canddiates for Governor first. All authorized delegates and alternates will cast their votes. Following the endorsements, the convention will adjourn.
The 2010 Independence Party State Convention will be held on Saturday, May 8th at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota. The Convention Schedule is:
•9:00-10:00am Registration
•10:00am Call to order (Proposed convention rules.)
•12:00-1:00pm - Lunch break (You must order box lunch before May 5th! Order Online!)
•1:00 pm Resume Convention Business
•4:30pm (or earlier) Adjourn
First up on the agenda will be proposed changes to the Minnesota Independence Party Constitution.
The second order of business will be to fill an open at-large position on the State Party Executive Committee. The newly elected Executive Committee member will serve until next year's convention when all at-large representatives will be up for election. If you are interested or i you have any questions please contact our State Party Director Kari Johnson-Robinson at karijohnson.robinsonip@gmail.com or 612-290-4296.
At the lunch break you are encouraged to remain on campus and meet IP candidates including our gubenatorial candidates! Please note that the only lunch available on campus will be the box lunches that must be pre-ordered by the IP. Box lunches are $10.00 each (turkey, tuna or egg salad sandwich). You can purchase your box lunch online or send a check with your order to the MNIP at PO BOX 40495, St. Paul, MN 55104. Please remember to include your sandwich selection on your check.
This is a great opportunity to make a small contribution to support the cost of this convention. Unlike the other parties, the IP remains free of special interest money and our convention is funded solely by your contribution. Consider sending an additional $5.00 with your box lunch order or make a contribution separately here.
Following lunch, we will begin consideration of candidates who are competing for the Independence Party endorsement! We will hear from canddiates for Governor first. All authorized delegates and alternates will cast their votes. Following the endorsements, the convention will adjourn.
I will be at Minnesota Republican State Convention
I will be at Minnesota Republican State Convention tomorrow, more likely do live tweet because I am not sure if there will be wireless capabilities at the Minneapolis Convention Center due to don’t want to have similar problem when I was in Duluth last weekend when there is no wireless internet access.
I won’t be staying during whole time because in between I have to run over to St. Paul for a meeting on possible promotion at my Capitol job. I plan to be at the convention before and after the meeting.
I am putting my party line aside and be nonpartisan because I want to give fair reading to Republicans and I don’t play favorites when covering stories. I am trying to give Republicans chance to see their stories on my blog. I also do have some friends and co workers who are Republicans and they have right to enjoy the blog as well.
I also do enjoy networking with political junkies at political conventions or events so that is other reason why I am going to Minnesota Republican State Convention.
If you have Twitter, follow me at mncapitolgirl
I won’t be staying during whole time because in between I have to run over to St. Paul for a meeting on possible promotion at my Capitol job. I plan to be at the convention before and after the meeting.
I am putting my party line aside and be nonpartisan because I want to give fair reading to Republicans and I don’t play favorites when covering stories. I am trying to give Republicans chance to see their stories on my blog. I also do have some friends and co workers who are Republicans and they have right to enjoy the blog as well.
I also do enjoy networking with political junkies at political conventions or events so that is other reason why I am going to Minnesota Republican State Convention.
If you have Twitter, follow me at mncapitolgirl
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Minnesota Republican State Convention Details
Here are some details of Minnesota Republican State Convention in case if anyone are interested in going. It will be held at Minneapolis Convention Center.
State Convention Draft Agenda
Subject to Change
Thursday, April 29, 2010
6:30 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
Presentation of Colors
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Call to Order
Credentials Committee Report
Rules Committee Report
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – State Auditor
Endorsement for State Auditor
Platform Committee Report
Friday, April 30, 2010
9:00 a.m. Call to Order
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Project Phoenix Update
Volunteer of the Year Awards
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – Governor
Endorsement for Governor
Continuation of Platform Committee Report
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – Attorney General
Endorsement for Attorney General
Nominating Committee Report – Secretary of State
Endorsement for Secretary of State
Saturday, May 1, 2010
9:00 a.m. Call to Order
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Unity Rally
Credentials Committee Report
Local Elected Official of the Year Award
Reports from Party Officers
Judicial Elections Committee Report
Completion of the Platform Committee Report
Constitution Committee Report
Other Business
Adjournment
Convention business, including any committee report and reports from Party Officers, may be considered at any time in the
course of the Convention where any lapse in the agenda or delay for the counting of votes permits.
Reports by Party Officers and speeches by congressional candidates, House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers, Senate Minority Leader
Dave Senjem, Congressman John Kline, Congressman Erik Paulsen, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Governor Tim Pawlenty
and other distinguished guests will be inserted into the Convention at the discretion of the Convention Co-chairs per the rules
Minnesota Republican State Convention Website
State Convention Draft Agenda
Subject to Change
Thursday, April 29, 2010
6:30 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
Presentation of Colors
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Call to Order
Credentials Committee Report
Rules Committee Report
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – State Auditor
Endorsement for State Auditor
Platform Committee Report
Friday, April 30, 2010
9:00 a.m. Call to Order
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Project Phoenix Update
Volunteer of the Year Awards
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – Governor
Endorsement for Governor
Continuation of Platform Committee Report
Credentials Committee Report
Nominating Committee Report – Attorney General
Endorsement for Attorney General
Nominating Committee Report – Secretary of State
Endorsement for Secretary of State
Saturday, May 1, 2010
9:00 a.m. Call to Order
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Unity Rally
Credentials Committee Report
Local Elected Official of the Year Award
Reports from Party Officers
Judicial Elections Committee Report
Completion of the Platform Committee Report
Constitution Committee Report
Other Business
Adjournment
Convention business, including any committee report and reports from Party Officers, may be considered at any time in the
course of the Convention where any lapse in the agenda or delay for the counting of votes permits.
Reports by Party Officers and speeches by congressional candidates, House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers, Senate Minority Leader
Dave Senjem, Congressman John Kline, Congressman Erik Paulsen, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Governor Tim Pawlenty
and other distinguished guests will be inserted into the Convention at the discretion of the Convention Co-chairs per the rules
Minnesota Republican State Convention Website
Fla. Gov. to Run as Independent in Senate Race
(Fox News Channel) - Fla. Gov. Charlie Crist will leave the Republican party and run as an Independent in the Florida Senate race, Fox News reported Wednesday.
Crist is set to make an official announcement at 5pm ET Thursday in St. Petersburg, Fla.
The Florida governor has said that under no circumstances would he drop out of the race, saying he will do what is best for the voters of Florida.
Crist said that Republicans in Washington want him to stay in the Republican party but voters in Florida have told him they want him to run as an Independent, Fox News reported.
Speculation that the more moderate Crist would leave the Republican party had mounted in recent weeks as his Republican challenger, former Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio took a commanding lead in polls and received the endorsement of Republican heavyweights such as 2008 presidential hopefuls Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney and former Vice President Dick Cheney.
Crist's campaign and the governor's office have not officially confirmed the move.
Crist is set to make an official announcement at 5pm ET Thursday in St. Petersburg, Fla.
The Florida governor has said that under no circumstances would he drop out of the race, saying he will do what is best for the voters of Florida.
Crist said that Republicans in Washington want him to stay in the Republican party but voters in Florida have told him they want him to run as an Independent, Fox News reported.
Speculation that the more moderate Crist would leave the Republican party had mounted in recent weeks as his Republican challenger, former Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio took a commanding lead in polls and received the endorsement of Republican heavyweights such as 2008 presidential hopefuls Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney and former Vice President Dick Cheney.
Crist's campaign and the governor's office have not officially confirmed the move.
Pictures from 2010 Annual Senate Potluck
I attended 2010 Annual Senate Potluck yesterday since I work at the Capitol and here are some pictures I took.
State Rep. Phil Sterner Capitol Update; April 28, 2010
Dear Friends,
I’m always impressed by the talent and ingenuity of District 196 students. Whether it’s the award winning marching band at RHS or the championship speech teams at Eastview High School, our students consistently outperform students across the state and the nation.
Rosemount High School Students Kristen Farris, Mackenzie Carlson, Alex Norris, Casey Tousignant and Dave Iverson are examples of this creativity. The five are finalists in the national Ford-sponsored Belt it OUT! competition. If selected as the winning entry, each student will win a $5000 scholarship to further their education. You can read their story by clicking on the link below, and more importantly, you can cast your vote for them.
The key to Minnesota’s economic success lies in a strong system of education. We’re lucky to have some of the best schools in the nation in Minnesota and some of the finest in the state right here in District 196. Best of luck to Kristen, Mackenzie, Alex, Casey and Dave, and congratulations to all of the bright and hardworking District 196 students – we’re proud of you!
Sincerely,
-Phil
State Representative Phil Sterner
523 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-4306
rep.phil.sterner@house.mn
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RHS students finalists in national Ford video contest
Five Rosemount High School students hope a catchy tune about seatbelt use and safety behind the wheel will earn them $5,000 each to put toward college. Win or lose, though, all of the students agree this is the most fun they’ve ever had with a scholarship application.
http://www.rosemounttownpages.com/event/article/id/24494/
I’m always impressed by the talent and ingenuity of District 196 students. Whether it’s the award winning marching band at RHS or the championship speech teams at Eastview High School, our students consistently outperform students across the state and the nation.
Rosemount High School Students Kristen Farris, Mackenzie Carlson, Alex Norris, Casey Tousignant and Dave Iverson are examples of this creativity. The five are finalists in the national Ford-sponsored Belt it OUT! competition. If selected as the winning entry, each student will win a $5000 scholarship to further their education. You can read their story by clicking on the link below, and more importantly, you can cast your vote for them.
The key to Minnesota’s economic success lies in a strong system of education. We’re lucky to have some of the best schools in the nation in Minnesota and some of the finest in the state right here in District 196. Best of luck to Kristen, Mackenzie, Alex, Casey and Dave, and congratulations to all of the bright and hardworking District 196 students – we’re proud of you!
Sincerely,
-Phil
State Representative Phil Sterner
523 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-4306
rep.phil.sterner@house.mn
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RHS students finalists in national Ford video contest
Five Rosemount High School students hope a catchy tune about seatbelt use and safety behind the wheel will earn them $5,000 each to put toward college. Win or lose, though, all of the students agree this is the most fun they’ve ever had with a scholarship application.
http://www.rosemounttownpages.com/event/article/id/24494/
Behind the DFL scenes: Inside Thissen’s war room
by Betsy Sundquist, Politics in Minnesota
April 23,2010
Carrie Lucking warns a visitor before she leads the way through the doors that the smell is not pleasant
In fact, the word she uses is “rancid.”
Paul Thissen’s “war room” – which doubles as a hockey locker room when the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center isn’t bursting at the seams with DFLers – is still filled with sweaty hockey uniforms and other gear, most of it concealed behind black curtains set up by convention center staff.
Although the smell isn’t as easily eradicated as the hockey players who normally frequent the room, the volunteers and staff members filling the space this weekend have learned pretty quickly to ignore the distraction and buckle down to the task at hand: getting four-term state Rep. Thissen endorsed by the DFL as its chosen candidate to run for governor. (Arguably, political staffers and volunteers are one of the only groups of people more accustomed to working under occasionally rancid conditions than journalists.)
Thissen is generally considered the candidate poised to benefit if the two front-runners – Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher – deadlock in tomorrow’s endorsement battle or if either of them falters during the process.
“Here’s the scary, scary boys’ bathroom,” says Lucking, the Thissen campaign’s communications director, ushering a visitor past the campaign’s data bank, where six members of Thissen’s technical team are performing real-time data updates during the convention. “But look – there’s a sauna!”
The tech team members receive messages from the convention floor on changes in delegate identifications and are able to instantly enter them into a database. Lucking says Thissen’s isn’t the only gubernatorial campaign with a backstage data bank, but she believes it’s the one making the best use of technology this weekend.
This is also where Thissen’s “persuasion team” has set up shop. The campaign receives requests and questions from delegates on the floor on small cards marked “Thissen Persuasion.” One side of the card is filled out with information about the delegate (or alternate delegate), including his or her congressional district (and where he or she can be located on the floor), the subject of the issue and a description; the issue is also designated “tier 1” or “tier 2.” If it’s a tier 1 issue, either Thissen or his wife Karen handles it; all tier 2 requests are assigned to whatever member of the persuasion team specializes in the applicable issue.
The other side of the card has spaces for the “persuader” to make notes and record the outcome of the contact.
According to Lucking, the campaign had completed 300 “persuasions” by midday Friday.
Many of Thissen’s volunteers are family members of staffers. Terrie Vitali, whose daughter, Gia Vitali, is managing Thissen’s campaign, was stationed outside the entrance to the war room Friday afternoon, making sure anyone who entered was authorized to do so (and was wearing one of the obligatory green bracelets that identified them as a member of the inner circle).
Thissen has more than 100 people working on his behalf behind the scenes, and another 100 on the convention floor, Lucking says. “It’s amazing how when people meet Paul, they want to help,” she says. “There’s a lot of momentum here.”
How will that momentum translate into delegate support? Tune in tomorrow.
April 23,2010
Carrie Lucking warns a visitor before she leads the way through the doors that the smell is not pleasant
In fact, the word she uses is “rancid.”
Paul Thissen’s “war room” – which doubles as a hockey locker room when the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center isn’t bursting at the seams with DFLers – is still filled with sweaty hockey uniforms and other gear, most of it concealed behind black curtains set up by convention center staff.
Although the smell isn’t as easily eradicated as the hockey players who normally frequent the room, the volunteers and staff members filling the space this weekend have learned pretty quickly to ignore the distraction and buckle down to the task at hand: getting four-term state Rep. Thissen endorsed by the DFL as its chosen candidate to run for governor. (Arguably, political staffers and volunteers are one of the only groups of people more accustomed to working under occasionally rancid conditions than journalists.)
Thissen is generally considered the candidate poised to benefit if the two front-runners – Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher – deadlock in tomorrow’s endorsement battle or if either of them falters during the process.
“Here’s the scary, scary boys’ bathroom,” says Lucking, the Thissen campaign’s communications director, ushering a visitor past the campaign’s data bank, where six members of Thissen’s technical team are performing real-time data updates during the convention. “But look – there’s a sauna!”
The tech team members receive messages from the convention floor on changes in delegate identifications and are able to instantly enter them into a database. Lucking says Thissen’s isn’t the only gubernatorial campaign with a backstage data bank, but she believes it’s the one making the best use of technology this weekend.
This is also where Thissen’s “persuasion team” has set up shop. The campaign receives requests and questions from delegates on the floor on small cards marked “Thissen Persuasion.” One side of the card is filled out with information about the delegate (or alternate delegate), including his or her congressional district (and where he or she can be located on the floor), the subject of the issue and a description; the issue is also designated “tier 1” or “tier 2.” If it’s a tier 1 issue, either Thissen or his wife Karen handles it; all tier 2 requests are assigned to whatever member of the persuasion team specializes in the applicable issue.
The other side of the card has spaces for the “persuader” to make notes and record the outcome of the contact.
According to Lucking, the campaign had completed 300 “persuasions” by midday Friday.
Many of Thissen’s volunteers are family members of staffers. Terrie Vitali, whose daughter, Gia Vitali, is managing Thissen’s campaign, was stationed outside the entrance to the war room Friday afternoon, making sure anyone who entered was authorized to do so (and was wearing one of the obligatory green bracelets that identified them as a member of the inner circle).
Thissen has more than 100 people working on his behalf behind the scenes, and another 100 on the convention floor, Lucking says. “It’s amazing how when people meet Paul, they want to help,” she says. “There’s a lot of momentum here.”
How will that momentum translate into delegate support? Tune in tomorrow.
Ole Savior's pissed off blog and Rach's opinion
Rach's opinion on Ole Savior candidancy and his speech at 2010 DFL State Convention
I found this blog where Ole Savior was so pissed off for not winning endorsement. I was at the convention, no one was paying attention to him and was having conversations while Ole Savior was speaking. There was some heckles in alternate delegate seating area in upper deck at the DECC.
Some people have been telling me that Ole Savior wasn't serious candidate and usually going off topic and didn't sound too serious on his candidacy. I have seen him spoke at 2002 and 2006 DFL State Conventions, and he is just same old news.
He need to work on being realistic and serious. He need to start somewhere at bottom and work way up. He need to focus on what is most important to Minnesotans, need to start reading what is going at my work and talk with Minnesota Citizens instead of thinking about himself.
Next time if he is speaking at the convention, he need to wear a suit not a Vikings jersey and this isn't Vikings game. Convention was held at a hockey arena not a football stadium or Metrodome.
If he isn't too happy with DFL party, he oughta switch to different party. By the way where is proof that he is Minneapolis DFL Delegation Caucus chair? According to a friend who is involved with Minnepaolis DFL, Ole Savior have never been delegation caucus chair. He haven't been honest with the party.
If you was at DFL State Convention and heard him speaking, feel free to share your opinion.
Monday, April 26, 2010
District 21 Democratic-NPL leaders steamroll the process
SOURCE: FARGO INFORUM
April 26, 2010
Scott Edward Haugen is running for the state Legislature in Fargo’s District 21, challenging the Democratic-NPL Party House endorsements, giving voters a choice in the June 8 primary.
By: Tom Magin, Fargo
Scott Edward Haugen is running for the state Legislature in Fargo’s District 21, challenging the Democratic-NPL Party House endorsements, giving voters a choice in the June 8 primary.
Democratic-NPL Party leaders stopped any debate, questions or answers about who should get the endorsements, so Haugen withdrew from the endorsement process. It was not democratic in his judgment, as many other Democrats agree. He made the right call to bypass that flawed process.
The noteworthy fact is, long before Haugen withdrew, the District 21 Committee had made plans for an endorsement process that included debate and questions and answers from the candidates. Unfortunately, the district party chairwoman and the incumbent legislative candidates derailed the District 21 committee’s decision, taking a less legitimate path in order to maintain their dubious control of the process.
Now, by challenging the insiders, Haugen has ruffled some feathers and has become a target of their criticism. That’s politics: a blend of facts, fiction and phobias. But, the truth is still important, good, bad or ugly, and there’s just no pretty way to say it: The incumbents did not want any debate, questions or answers, so they “stretched” their authority in order to prevent any debate, questions or answers.
Haugen’s candidacy gives the voters of District 21 a real choice and a real opportunity to have a more objective and progressive voice for the district in the North Dakota House. June’s primary election is about changing the Democratic Party’s decline and direction from the same old promises of the past, from the same old crowd, to a renewed focus on common sense, fairness, inclusiveness and accountability.
That’s why Haugen deserves our support now and in November. Haugen has the energy, passion and values that we need for the future of the Democratic-NPL Party and to represent all independent, forward-thinking citizens in Fargo’s District 21.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Magin lives in Fargo.
Tim Magin was Vice Chair of North Dakota AFL-CIO and current vice chair of Democratic-NPL Senate District 21.
April 26, 2010
Scott Edward Haugen is running for the state Legislature in Fargo’s District 21, challenging the Democratic-NPL Party House endorsements, giving voters a choice in the June 8 primary.
By: Tom Magin, Fargo
Scott Edward Haugen is running for the state Legislature in Fargo’s District 21, challenging the Democratic-NPL Party House endorsements, giving voters a choice in the June 8 primary.
Democratic-NPL Party leaders stopped any debate, questions or answers about who should get the endorsements, so Haugen withdrew from the endorsement process. It was not democratic in his judgment, as many other Democrats agree. He made the right call to bypass that flawed process.
The noteworthy fact is, long before Haugen withdrew, the District 21 Committee had made plans for an endorsement process that included debate and questions and answers from the candidates. Unfortunately, the district party chairwoman and the incumbent legislative candidates derailed the District 21 committee’s decision, taking a less legitimate path in order to maintain their dubious control of the process.
Now, by challenging the insiders, Haugen has ruffled some feathers and has become a target of their criticism. That’s politics: a blend of facts, fiction and phobias. But, the truth is still important, good, bad or ugly, and there’s just no pretty way to say it: The incumbents did not want any debate, questions or answers, so they “stretched” their authority in order to prevent any debate, questions or answers.
Haugen’s candidacy gives the voters of District 21 a real choice and a real opportunity to have a more objective and progressive voice for the district in the North Dakota House. June’s primary election is about changing the Democratic Party’s decline and direction from the same old promises of the past, from the same old crowd, to a renewed focus on common sense, fairness, inclusiveness and accountability.
That’s why Haugen deserves our support now and in November. Haugen has the energy, passion and values that we need for the future of the Democratic-NPL Party and to represent all independent, forward-thinking citizens in Fargo’s District 21.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Magin lives in Fargo.
Tim Magin was Vice Chair of North Dakota AFL-CIO and current vice chair of Democratic-NPL Senate District 21.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Ole Savior and the broken window
by Peter Bartz-Gallagher, Politics in Minnesota
April 24,2010
Perennial candidate Ole Savior is giving his speech right now on the convention floor. He mentioned that his car window was broken, and we’ve got more on that: [Originally published in the PIM Weekly Report]
The PIM squad shared a breakfast room with gubernatorial candidate Ole Savior, who shared tales of woe from Thursday night. Thinking he’d enjoy a relaxing evening at the Fon-du-Luth Casino, Savior ended up 320 bucks down at the slots, then found the window of his vehicle shattered! He had great things to say about Duluth police, though, who apprehended a suspect immediately.
April 24,2010
Perennial candidate Ole Savior is giving his speech right now on the convention floor. He mentioned that his car window was broken, and we’ve got more on that: [Originally published in the PIM Weekly Report]
The PIM squad shared a breakfast room with gubernatorial candidate Ole Savior, who shared tales of woe from Thursday night. Thinking he’d enjoy a relaxing evening at the Fon-du-Luth Casino, Savior ended up 320 bucks down at the slots, then found the window of his vehicle shattered! He had great things to say about Duluth police, though, who apprehended a suspect immediately.
The GOP’s in the house at the DFL convention
by Betsy Sundquist, Politics in Minnesota
April 24,2010
Two heavy hitters from the Minnesota Republican Party showed up this afternoon in Duluth for the state DFL convention: deputy chair Michael Brodkorb and communications director Mark Drake.
“I plan to sit politely in the stands,” Brodkorb said, hanging out with Drake in the arena’s exhibit hall, surrounded on all sides by DFLers. “I understand that this is a political convention and that I’m in the DFL’s house. I plan to be very polite and courteous.”
Brodkorb is in Duluth to observe the process and provide his party’s official response after DFLers endorse a gubernatorial candidate sometime later today (or tomorrow morning). He said he’s been to every state DFL convention since 1996.
“The glamorous life of politics: sitting in the top row of the DECC with Mark Drake, drinking warm water and eating Girl Scout cookies,” Brodkorb tweeted a few minutes ago.
Brodkorb predicted that Margaret Anderson Kelliher will land on top after the first ballot, and after that it will be a two-way race between Kelliher and R.T. Rybak, with Paul Thissen in third place.
He and Drake listened to candidate speeches on the drive north this morning, and Brodkorb called Tom Rukavina’s arena-shaking speech the “most entertaining and authentic” of all the candidate speeches. “He is refreshingly honest,” Brodkorb conceded, echoing Rukavina’s campaign slogan.
Minnesota Republicans will endorse a gubernatorial candidate next weekend in Minneapolis, and the GOP field isn’t anywhere near as cluttered as the DFL’s, even after this weekend’s endorsement battle finally ends (no fewer than six DFL gubernatorial candidates will appear on the August primary ballot).
“I think the Democrats will lose the governor’s office again, regardless of who’s endorsed,” Brodkorb said. “After next weekend, we will be united, and they won’t have a candidate until late August.”
April 24,2010
Two heavy hitters from the Minnesota Republican Party showed up this afternoon in Duluth for the state DFL convention: deputy chair Michael Brodkorb and communications director Mark Drake.
“I plan to sit politely in the stands,” Brodkorb said, hanging out with Drake in the arena’s exhibit hall, surrounded on all sides by DFLers. “I understand that this is a political convention and that I’m in the DFL’s house. I plan to be very polite and courteous.”
Brodkorb is in Duluth to observe the process and provide his party’s official response after DFLers endorse a gubernatorial candidate sometime later today (or tomorrow morning). He said he’s been to every state DFL convention since 1996.
“The glamorous life of politics: sitting in the top row of the DECC with Mark Drake, drinking warm water and eating Girl Scout cookies,” Brodkorb tweeted a few minutes ago.
Brodkorb predicted that Margaret Anderson Kelliher will land on top after the first ballot, and after that it will be a two-way race between Kelliher and R.T. Rybak, with Paul Thissen in third place.
He and Drake listened to candidate speeches on the drive north this morning, and Brodkorb called Tom Rukavina’s arena-shaking speech the “most entertaining and authentic” of all the candidate speeches. “He is refreshingly honest,” Brodkorb conceded, echoing Rukavina’s campaign slogan.
Minnesota Republicans will endorse a gubernatorial candidate next weekend in Minneapolis, and the GOP field isn’t anywhere near as cluttered as the DFL’s, even after this weekend’s endorsement battle finally ends (no fewer than six DFL gubernatorial candidates will appear on the August primary ballot).
“I think the Democrats will lose the governor’s office again, regardless of who’s endorsed,” Brodkorb said. “After next weekend, we will be united, and they won’t have a candidate until late August.”
Overheard at the convention: Marquart was lobbied by colleagues to turn down LG spot
by Steve Perry, Politics in Minnesota
April 25,2010
On the way out of the Duluth convention center last night, I ran into a senior House DFL legislator who said that several colleagues asked House property tax chair Paul Marquart of Dilworth to decline Margaret Anderson Kelliher’s invitation to be on her lieutenant governor short list.
“Everyone thinks that if Margaret were elected, [House Taxes Committee chair] Ann Lenczewski would be the commissioner of Management and Budget,” the rep noted. “Paul is the best taxes person we would have then. We can’t afford to lose him.”
April 25,2010
On the way out of the Duluth convention center last night, I ran into a senior House DFL legislator who said that several colleagues asked House property tax chair Paul Marquart of Dilworth to decline Margaret Anderson Kelliher’s invitation to be on her lieutenant governor short list.
“Everyone thinks that if Margaret were elected, [House Taxes Committee chair] Ann Lenczewski would be the commissioner of Management and Budget,” the rep noted. “Paul is the best taxes person we would have then. We can’t afford to lose him.”
RESULTS FROM 2010 DFL STATE CONVENTION
I had problem trying to connect internet at Duluth Entrainment Convention Center during Democratic Farmer Labor Party State Convention. I had to get results off Politics in Minnesota website.
The endorsing for Governor went through six ballots but only five are available because sixth wasn’t due to Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak conceded and House Speaker Margret Anderson Kelliher was declared winner.
The balloting started at around 1:30PM until 11:00PM.
First Ballot
Rybak: 294.5 (21.7 percent)
Thissen: 254.5 (18.8 percent)
Rukavina: 249.5 (18.4 percent)
Marty: 175.5 (13 percent)
No endorsement: 6.5 (0.5 percent)
*Entenza: 3.5 (0.3 percent)
*Idusogie: 3 (0.2 percent)
*Savior: 0
* - dropped from endorsement consideration
Second ballot
Kelliher: 377.5 (27.8 percent)
Rybak: 332 (24.5 percent)
Thissen: 270 (19.9 percent)
Rukavina: 238 (17.6 percent)
Marty: 136 (10 percent)
No endorsement: 2.5 (0.2 percent)
Third ballot
Kelliher: 414.5 (30.7 percent)
Rybak: 370 (27.4 percent)
Thissen: 295 (21.8 percent)
Rukavina: 269 (19.9 percent)
No endorsement: 2.5 (0.2 percent)
Fourth ballot:
Kelliher: 437 (32.8 percent)
Rybak: 380.5 (28.6 percent)
Thissen: 285 (21.4 percent)
Rukavina: 226 (17 percent)
No endorsement: 4 (.3 percent)
Fifth ballot
Kelliher: 630.5 (46.9 percent)
Rybak: 434 (32.3 percent)
Thissen: 269.5 (20.1 percent
No endorsement: 9 (0.7 percent)
The endorsing for Governor went through six ballots but only five are available because sixth wasn’t due to Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak conceded and House Speaker Margret Anderson Kelliher was declared winner.
The balloting started at around 1:30PM until 11:00PM.
First Ballot
Rybak: 294.5 (21.7 percent)
Thissen: 254.5 (18.8 percent)
Rukavina: 249.5 (18.4 percent)
Marty: 175.5 (13 percent)
No endorsement: 6.5 (0.5 percent)
*Entenza: 3.5 (0.3 percent)
*Idusogie: 3 (0.2 percent)
*Savior: 0
* - dropped from endorsement consideration
Second ballot
Kelliher: 377.5 (27.8 percent)
Rybak: 332 (24.5 percent)
Thissen: 270 (19.9 percent)
Rukavina: 238 (17.6 percent)
Marty: 136 (10 percent)
No endorsement: 2.5 (0.2 percent)
Third ballot
Kelliher: 414.5 (30.7 percent)
Rybak: 370 (27.4 percent)
Thissen: 295 (21.8 percent)
Rukavina: 269 (19.9 percent)
No endorsement: 2.5 (0.2 percent)
Fourth ballot:
Kelliher: 437 (32.8 percent)
Rybak: 380.5 (28.6 percent)
Thissen: 285 (21.4 percent)
Rukavina: 226 (17 percent)
No endorsement: 4 (.3 percent)
Fifth ballot
Kelliher: 630.5 (46.9 percent)
Rybak: 434 (32.3 percent)
Thissen: 269.5 (20.1 percent
No endorsement: 9 (0.7 percent)
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
I WILL BE AT DFL STATE CONVENTION AND MAY BE REPORTING LIVE FROM DULUTH THIS WEEKEND
This weekend, I will be in Duluth for Democratic Farmer Labor (DFL) party State Convention at the Duluth Entrainment Convention Center.
I am Alternate Delegate so I will try my best to cover the State and will do some reporting but not the whole time depending on my schedule and whatever is going on.
As for Saturday’s endorsement for Governor, I will be getting results when they are available.
I also will be tweeting live as well. Follow me at www.twitter.com/mncapitol throughout the weekend.
If you want to contribute something during the State, let me know and I will be more than happy to add to the site. You could e-mail me at senatoreggert@yahoo.com or if you are at the State, see me either at the Senate District 37 table (only if I get upgraded as Delegate) or alternate delegate seating area.
I am Alternate Delegate so I will try my best to cover the State and will do some reporting but not the whole time depending on my schedule and whatever is going on.
As for Saturday’s endorsement for Governor, I will be getting results when they are available.
I also will be tweeting live as well. Follow me at www.twitter.com/mncapitol throughout the weekend.
If you want to contribute something during the State, let me know and I will be more than happy to add to the site. You could e-mail me at senatoreggert@yahoo.com or if you are at the State, see me either at the Senate District 37 table (only if I get upgraded as Delegate) or alternate delegate seating area.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Former Falls man makes bid for North Dakota office
Source: International Falls Journal
Submitted by Journal Staff on April 14, 2010
A former International Falls resident is making his first bid for public office in North Dakota.
Scott Edward Haugen, a Democratic candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives, filed the necessary papers April 9 to run in the June 8 primary election. Haugen announced his candidacy last January at a press conference in Fargo, N.D. He is seeking a legislative seat for State District 21, which encompasses the downtown portion of the city.
“I feel that North Dakota’s phenomenal potential, in respect to its tremendous resources, our state’s $1 billion surplus, and the extraordinary people who call it home, has yet to reach its fullest potential,” Haugen said. “I have so many ideas and solutions that can help move our state forward, and benefit its citizens, in a way that is about reaching a great, new pinnacle of change and prosperity that will be good for everyone here in North Dakota.”
Haugen, 29, who lived with his family in Ranier in 1991, and in International Falls from 1991 to 1994, is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. He is a long-time resident of Fargo where he is a community organizer and human rights activist.
Haugen referred to his principal motivation for running, saying, “If I really want to see significant, progressive change happen, in a way that is truly in the best interests of North Dakota and its people, then I figured I better step up to the plate and try to help make it happen. And that’s why I’m running.”
___________________________________________________________________
Scott Haugen for House Campaign website
Scott Haugen's Twitter link
Submitted by Journal Staff on April 14, 2010
A former International Falls resident is making his first bid for public office in North Dakota.
Scott Edward Haugen, a Democratic candidate for the North Dakota House of Representatives, filed the necessary papers April 9 to run in the June 8 primary election. Haugen announced his candidacy last January at a press conference in Fargo, N.D. He is seeking a legislative seat for State District 21, which encompasses the downtown portion of the city.
“I feel that North Dakota’s phenomenal potential, in respect to its tremendous resources, our state’s $1 billion surplus, and the extraordinary people who call it home, has yet to reach its fullest potential,” Haugen said. “I have so many ideas and solutions that can help move our state forward, and benefit its citizens, in a way that is about reaching a great, new pinnacle of change and prosperity that will be good for everyone here in North Dakota.”
Haugen, 29, who lived with his family in Ranier in 1991, and in International Falls from 1991 to 1994, is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. He is a long-time resident of Fargo where he is a community organizer and human rights activist.
Haugen referred to his principal motivation for running, saying, “If I really want to see significant, progressive change happen, in a way that is truly in the best interests of North Dakota and its people, then I figured I better step up to the plate and try to help make it happen. And that’s why I’m running.”
___________________________________________________________________
Scott Haugen for House Campaign website
Scott Haugen's Twitter link
Thursday, April 8, 2010
ADA 20th Anniversary Celebration
ADA 20th Anniversary Celebration
Monday, July 26, 2010, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power St., Minneapolis
On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law.
The ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities, but we
have yet to reach its full promise. Join us in celebrating progress under
the ADA and rededicating ourselves to the fight for full ADA compliance.
SPEAKERS/ENTERTAINERS
. Comedian Josh Blue
. Former US Senator David Durenberger
. Local/National Politicians
. ASL Storyteller Nic Zapko
. ADA Expert Peter Berg
. And more!
FREE! FREE! FREE!
. Summertime food available on site
. Vendor booths & exhibits
. Accommodations
ASL interpreters
CART services
PCA assistance
Audio descriptors
Requests for other accommodations must be made by July 5 (contact below)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Cindy Tarshish, Committee Chair
(651)603-2015 (Twin Cities), (888)630-9793 (Toll-Free) or cindyt@mcil-mn.org
Marie Koehler 1-888-206-6513 (TTY) or 1-866-635-0082 (VP)
Partners Welcome!
If you would like to be a sponsor or exhibitor, opportunities are still
available! Sponsorships start at $850 and include prominent recognition in
the program booklet and a full table in the vendor fair. Exhibitor space is
available at $250 for a half table and $400 for a full table.
Space is limited - first come, first served. Contact Jo Erbes at (651)
201-2295 for more information.
If you need this information in an alternative format, contact Cindy
Tarshish at the number above.
Please help us reach more friends! Pass along this flyer or post it on your
web site.
Monday, July 26, 2010, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power St., Minneapolis
On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law.
The ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities, but we
have yet to reach its full promise. Join us in celebrating progress under
the ADA and rededicating ourselves to the fight for full ADA compliance.
SPEAKERS/ENTERTAINERS
. Comedian Josh Blue
. Former US Senator David Durenberger
. Local/National Politicians
. ASL Storyteller Nic Zapko
. ADA Expert Peter Berg
. And more!
FREE! FREE! FREE!
. Summertime food available on site
. Vendor booths & exhibits
. Accommodations
ASL interpreters
CART services
PCA assistance
Audio descriptors
Requests for other accommodations must be made by July 5 (contact below)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Cindy Tarshish, Committee Chair
(651)603-2015 (Twin Cities), (888)630-9793 (Toll-Free) or cindyt@mcil-mn.org
Marie Koehler 1-888-206-6513 (TTY) or 1-866-635-0082 (VP)
Partners Welcome!
If you would like to be a sponsor or exhibitor, opportunities are still
available! Sponsorships start at $850 and include prominent recognition in
the program booklet and a full table in the vendor fair. Exhibitor space is
available at $250 for a half table and $400 for a full table.
Space is limited - first come, first served. Contact Jo Erbes at (651)
201-2295 for more information.
If you need this information in an alternative format, contact Cindy
Tarshish at the number above.
Please help us reach more friends! Pass along this flyer or post it on your
web site.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Sturdevant: Oct. 16, 1978: A full day, and he was there
Dr. Morrison Hodges has a story you've just got to hear.
By LORI STURDEVANT, Star Tribune
Last update: April 7, 2010
Would I like to meet a former Republican who was an eyewitness to populist hostility in northeastern Minnesota and to the late Sen. Edward Kennedy's presidential candidacy revelation, all on the same historic day in 1978?
With a come-on like that from Minneapolis City Council Member Betsy Hodges, how could I refuse? Soon I was swapping stories and talking a little health care policy with the former head of cardiology at Hennepin County Medical Center, Dr. Morrison Hodges -- Betsy's dad.
His story is too good to keep to myself.
Hodges is the only member of his large Arkansas family to move to Minnesota and the only physician in a family of attorneys and politicians. In 1978, he was the only Republican in a family of Democrats that included Arkansas U.S. Sen. Kaneaster Hodges Jr., his brother.
Sen. Hodges prevailed on his colleague, Ted Kennedy, to come to Arkansas to speak at an event honoring Hodges' late father on Oct. 16, 1978. Kennedy agreed -- and allowed that he'd be coming from Minnesota, where he would be stumping for a Democratic senator in a tough election battle, Wendell Anderson.
That inspired another request: Could Morrison Hodges meet Kennedy in Hibbing and hitch a plane ride to Arkansas?
That's how an alternate delegate to the 1978 Minnesota GOP state convention wound up in a car in Virginia, Minn., with two Democratic U.S. senators, being pelted with eggs and rocks. State troopers hustled the dignitaries -- who also included Gov. Rudy and Lola Perpich -- into a motel room to regroup and arrange an earlier-than-scheduled wheels-up for Arkansas.
Northeastern Minnesotans were enraged that year over new federal restrictions on the use of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, not to mention the usual incendiaries: guns and abortion. (Minnesotans who think recent Tea Party protests represent a new low for political incivility need a refresher course on the 1960s and '70s.)
When they were finally in the air, Kennedy relaxed, poured a drink and pressed an Esquire magazine journalist to agree that anything said on the plane was off the record. Then he showed Hodges a notebook labeled "Kennedy 1980." It was a strategy outline for his still-secret plan to challenge President Jimmy Carter for the Democratic presidential nomination.
When they deplaned in Hodges' tiny hometown, Newport, a comedy of errors ensued in making connections with Hodges' several brothers. During the confusion, someone approached with the news that would make the day historic: A Polish cardinal had just been elected pope.
Kennedy laughed and blurted, "Here I am, running for president of the United States, and I'm standing in a used-car lot in Newport, Ark., with Hodges boys going here and Hodges boys going there; a Pole is the new pope, and I'm supposed to know what I'm talking about!"
He was off the airplane when he said it. The journalist was no longer bound to silence. The next month's Esquire broke the news that Kennedy would be running against Carter.
One more thing: At that night's event, Dr. Hodges met Arkansas' Democratic candidate for governor, Bill Clinton, and his wife, Hillary.
On the plane, Hodges remembers, Kennedy spoke about his desire to bring the benefits of health insurance to all Americans. In the ensuing years, Hodges came to agree with him -- and stopped attending Republican conventions. He retired from HCMC in 1995 and now does clinical research with the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation.
"I favor strongly a single-payer system," he said. More than half of the nation's physicians do -- especially primary-care doctors who see what lack of insurance does to patients' well-being, he said.
Hodges applauds the new health care law that was passed and wishes Kennedy would have lived long enough to see it. But he also said that the bill doesn't do enough to wring waste out of the system and control costs, and that the people who really understand American health care know it. He thinks that if he could have a private moment with Kennedy today, he might be permitted a preview peek at a notebook labeled "Single Payer 2017."
Lori Sturdevant is a Star Tribune editorial writer and columnist. She is at lsturdevant@startribune.com.
Next page
By LORI STURDEVANT, Star Tribune
Last update: April 7, 2010
Would I like to meet a former Republican who was an eyewitness to populist hostility in northeastern Minnesota and to the late Sen. Edward Kennedy's presidential candidacy revelation, all on the same historic day in 1978?
With a come-on like that from Minneapolis City Council Member Betsy Hodges, how could I refuse? Soon I was swapping stories and talking a little health care policy with the former head of cardiology at Hennepin County Medical Center, Dr. Morrison Hodges -- Betsy's dad.
His story is too good to keep to myself.
Hodges is the only member of his large Arkansas family to move to Minnesota and the only physician in a family of attorneys and politicians. In 1978, he was the only Republican in a family of Democrats that included Arkansas U.S. Sen. Kaneaster Hodges Jr., his brother.
Sen. Hodges prevailed on his colleague, Ted Kennedy, to come to Arkansas to speak at an event honoring Hodges' late father on Oct. 16, 1978. Kennedy agreed -- and allowed that he'd be coming from Minnesota, where he would be stumping for a Democratic senator in a tough election battle, Wendell Anderson.
That inspired another request: Could Morrison Hodges meet Kennedy in Hibbing and hitch a plane ride to Arkansas?
That's how an alternate delegate to the 1978 Minnesota GOP state convention wound up in a car in Virginia, Minn., with two Democratic U.S. senators, being pelted with eggs and rocks. State troopers hustled the dignitaries -- who also included Gov. Rudy and Lola Perpich -- into a motel room to regroup and arrange an earlier-than-scheduled wheels-up for Arkansas.
Northeastern Minnesotans were enraged that year over new federal restrictions on the use of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, not to mention the usual incendiaries: guns and abortion. (Minnesotans who think recent Tea Party protests represent a new low for political incivility need a refresher course on the 1960s and '70s.)
When they were finally in the air, Kennedy relaxed, poured a drink and pressed an Esquire magazine journalist to agree that anything said on the plane was off the record. Then he showed Hodges a notebook labeled "Kennedy 1980." It was a strategy outline for his still-secret plan to challenge President Jimmy Carter for the Democratic presidential nomination.
When they deplaned in Hodges' tiny hometown, Newport, a comedy of errors ensued in making connections with Hodges' several brothers. During the confusion, someone approached with the news that would make the day historic: A Polish cardinal had just been elected pope.
Kennedy laughed and blurted, "Here I am, running for president of the United States, and I'm standing in a used-car lot in Newport, Ark., with Hodges boys going here and Hodges boys going there; a Pole is the new pope, and I'm supposed to know what I'm talking about!"
He was off the airplane when he said it. The journalist was no longer bound to silence. The next month's Esquire broke the news that Kennedy would be running against Carter.
One more thing: At that night's event, Dr. Hodges met Arkansas' Democratic candidate for governor, Bill Clinton, and his wife, Hillary.
On the plane, Hodges remembers, Kennedy spoke about his desire to bring the benefits of health insurance to all Americans. In the ensuing years, Hodges came to agree with him -- and stopped attending Republican conventions. He retired from HCMC in 1995 and now does clinical research with the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation.
"I favor strongly a single-payer system," he said. More than half of the nation's physicians do -- especially primary-care doctors who see what lack of insurance does to patients' well-being, he said.
Hodges applauds the new health care law that was passed and wishes Kennedy would have lived long enough to see it. But he also said that the bill doesn't do enough to wring waste out of the system and control costs, and that the people who really understand American health care know it. He thinks that if he could have a private moment with Kennedy today, he might be permitted a preview peek at a notebook labeled "Single Payer 2017."
Lori Sturdevant is a Star Tribune editorial writer and columnist. She is at lsturdevant@startribune.com.
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