Almanac: At the Capitol

Mike Huckabee launched his Minnesota campaign and the most notable name is Republican Party Chair Ron Carey. This is the earliest presidential endorsement by a party chair in memory. DFL Party Chair Brian Melendez has stayed neutral until a nomination. Carey said there was "too much at stake to be silent anymore" and the party bylaws allow his endorsement. The biggest problem for Huckabee could be there are no plans for him to make a visit in person. While the Huckster pulled off a low-budget miracle in Iowa, he did it in person; and since his personality is a big part of his success, not being here in person could hurt him. This also creates a divided front for Minnesota Republicans with Gov. Tim Pawlenty in a huge national role and John McCain campaign's co-chair. Bush's Minnesota campaign press secretary Peter Hong ironically drew similarities between Huckabee and Pawlenty, saying they're both bright, likeable and love rock'n'roll.