In Philadelphia, President-elect Barack Obama met with governors like Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal (who got in the photo that's on Finance and Commerce's site and not our Gov. Tim Pawlenty also often-mentioned with Jindal as a presidential contender).
In a conference call with reporters afterwards Pawlenty said he was "thankful and grateful" for Obama coming to the National Governor's Association meeting which Pawlenty said is unprecedented for an incoming president. The governor said Obama was "very gracious" and talked with the governors for about an hour. Pawlenty was particularly pleased with Obama's closing remarks that this "isn't goodbye, but hello."
The Minnesota governor got some one-on-one time with Obama “off to the side” where they talked about renewable energy. Pawlenty said the President-elect was “aware of Minnesota’s commitment” in this area. Pawlenty said as Obama left the meeting the governor indicated to the new president his interest in "moving the nation ahead" on more renewable energy.
Looking towards Thursday’s state budget forecast, Pawlenty said he didn’t know the number but it’s obvious Minnesota, along with other states, is facing a “major financial problem.” The governor said on Thursday he’ll announce “some immediate plans and actions” in regard to a state deficit. He also said he expects the cushion that was built up with higher revenue in recent months has been "burned through" and he expects a "noteworthy deficit" in the current budget cycle that ends in June.
In terms of federal help Pawlenty said “I have not asked Obama for more money” and reiterated he does “not support an across the board bailout.”