Almanac: At the Capitol

 

(Images from MDE)

Democrats have a lot going for them when it comes to the tide of politics right now, but it seems doubtful now images like these have a backlash since the vandalism was pretty bi-partisan.  The vandalism early seemed to hitting mostly Republicans (hours later we found out that Ellison and Klobuchar were hit too).  I don't take a lot a strong opinions here, but everyone can agree there is no place for vandalism.  If these images get a lot of attention especially on the Republican side, I wondered if this could evolve into something like the Rick Kahn comments at Wellstone's memorial (this now, later seems doubtful, just raising a question which is dangerous in this emotionally charged competitive election cycle).  The coverage seems to be mainly focused on the Colemans as victims since the images and quotes I've seen the most in the press are from Laurie and Norm Coleman.  (I'm not saying nor never meant to imply a Democrat was responsible, sorry if I left that impression earlier).

The DFL quickly and smartly issued the following statement (this was issued when, like me, they only knew of Republicans being targeted):

Upon news reports of recent vandalism, Minnesota DFL Chair Brian Melendez released the following statement:

 

“I deplore and condemn the vandalism against the property of Senator Coleman and other Republican officeholders. The immaturity and stupidity of these crimes should offend every citizen, regardless of politics. If Norm Coleman and the others are going to be held accountable for their poor stewardship, then it must be done the American way — at the ballot box and in public discourse, not in the dead of night with a can of spray paint. Whoever committed these cowardly crimes should step forward, confess, apologize, and take the consequences.”

 

 

 

The question I kept hearing all night at the Obama rally was "Where's Al Franken?" His rival for the DFL U.S. Senate endorsement Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer was there. Sen. Amy Klobuchar appeared and got big cheers. Congressman Keith Ellison also made the crowd roar. Many said they were waiting to see Franken appear, to shore up support, to rally the troops with 30,000 people in and around the X.
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This rift between Congresswoman Betty McCollum and Governor Tim Pawlenty on Central Corridor funding is getting interesting. A McCollum staffer just stopped by the State Capitol Press Room to distribute some background information. Their press release says "Pawlenty Administration Seeks $165,000,000 in 'Pork' While Decrying 'Pork'." McCollum says "Minnesotans deserve straight talk from Governor Pawlenty about his misleading position on Congressional earmarks."
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I've never been a big fan of Al Franken. He's always struck me as smug, thinking himself a lot funnier than he really is and routinely confusing drollery for comedy.
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