The Daily Digest: 2-7-08

Sorry the digest is late. Computer problems plagued me.

One day after Super Tuesday, the focus is now on the bread and butter issues. Concerns over job losses and problems in the mortgage industry are prompting fears of a recession. That means Minnesota's budget deficit could get bigger. Reorganization at Macy's doesn't help the situation in Minnesota.

Governor Pawlenty is headed to Washington DC today and will be in Germany this weekend.

The governor announced that they will raise the ceiling on lost wages benefits for bridge victims.

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Lawmakers tour the border to consider the impact of a new law.

The Minnesota Department of Health

The Minnesota Council of Helath Plans says depression is the state's top mental health issue.

Congress

The Senate blocks the economic stimulus bill. GOP Sen. Norm Coleman and DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar voted to back the package.

The MNDaily says Coleman does not back a plan that would limit interrogations.

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar wants to change Super Tuesday.

GOP Rep. John Kline is briefed on issues involving Afghanistan. He'd like to see greater investment from NATO allies.

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson is mentioned in this Politico story on trade issues related to sugar.

There are also rumors that a Delta/NWA merger is on the horizon.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar says he'll fight the merger.

2008 Race for President

Mitt Romney has suspended his campaign for president effectively giving John McCain the GOP nomination.

DFL Rep. Tim Walz backs Barack Obama for president.

Candidates are doing the math on the delegate numbers.

Tuesday's crowded chaos at the caucuses are prompting several lawmakers to call for a primary. MPR and the Star Tribune have stories.

Pawlenty for VP talk

U.S. News and World Report has Pawlenty on a John McCain shortlist.

KSTP asks "Where in the world is Pawlenty?"

WCCO says it's possible that Minnesota could see a Gov. Molnau.

2008 Race for U.S. Senate

DFLer Darryl Stanton says he's running again.

2008 Race for Congress

Democrat Steve Sarvi made his run for Congress official. He's running against GOP Rep. John Kline in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.

The Hill says the NRCC Chair says a federal investigation by will not harm fundraising. Kline is mentioned.