The Daily Digest: 12-18-06
Al Franken leads the digest today. Well, I guess he and the others thinking about running against GOP Senator Norm Coleman in 2008. The Star Tribune skips 2007 entirely and focuses on the U.S. Senate race in 2008.
The New York Times says Franken will run in their story on Air America.
Newsweek also mentions Franken in their Air America story.
The blogs are also pondering an Al Franken candidacy. Michael Brodkorb, with MDE, is bringing up stories on Franken's alleged drug use.
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Minnesota Monitor focuses on the news about Franken.
Someone with Minnesota Network for Progressive Action encourages Dems to not back Al Franken.
The Governor and the Legislature
The Star Tribune has a story saying property taxes are easing up.
The Grand Forks Herald takes a look at property taxes in their area. The Duluth News Tribune has a property tax tale of two cities.
AP says state primed for a flu pandemic.
The Downtown Journal profiles DFL Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller.
The Bemidji Pioneer says the Beltrami County Board discussed legislativye priorities with state lawmakers.
USA Today says states are struggling to cover retirees.
Congress
First off, DFL Congressman-elect Tim Walz, DFL Congressman-elect Keith Ellison and GOP Congresswoman-elect Michele Bachmann are on MPR's Midday program today at 11.
The Wall Street Journal says DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar indicates his opposition to any airline mergers.
DFL Senator-elect Amy Klobuchar names her chief of staff (he used to work for Patrick Kennedy).
She'll also talk ethics during a conference call with reporters this afternoon.
The Star Tribune also says Congress will take aim at student debt.
GOP Senator Norm Coleman wants South Korea to start buying American beef.
There's an immigration rally scheduled outside of Coleman's St. Paul office this afternoon.
The Modesto Bee mentions DFL Congressman Collin Peterson in a story that says lawmakers are getting ready to direct ag dollars.
It looks like Congress will have some tidying up to do on the financial realm.
Blog Watch
See above for Franken related blogs.
Dick Polman's American Debate takes a look at Evan Bayh's decision to drop his run for the presidency.
The Fix surveys the 2008 scene now the Bayh is out.
The Caucus examines the political book list.
And Lloydletta writes about a retraction from City Pages on Governor Pawlenty's election night victory.
Other
Star Tribune takes a look at St. Paul mayor Chris Coleman's first year.
The Star Tribune editorial writer was cleared in the plagiarism probe.
Finally, USA Today says the internet is critical for political fundraising.