The Daily Digest: 2-2-09
Happy Groundhog Day! Minnesota is still without a Senator. If it seems like you're hearing the same arguments over and over and over again - You are. MPR and the Pi Press say it could go on a bit longer.
The trial begins its second week today.
Coleman also appeared on WCCO. He left open the possibility of further court challenges and said Star Tribune reporters inserted themselves into a DFL ad in the final days of the campaign.
AP says the Norm Coleman's campaign has turned to Bush vs. Gore.
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The NRSC will hold a fundraiser for Coleman later this month.
CQ looks at the fundraising numbers. Democrat Al Franken out raised and outspent Coleman.
State Government
A new poll of Minnesota's manufacturers says manufacturers are confident about the future.
It's going to be a rough week for Gov. Pawlenty's Q-Comp plan. The Legislative Auditor releases a report on the education merit pay program later this week. The Star Tribune also says nearly every teacher gets the pay raise.
AP says Pawlenty's budget plan could cost hundreds of state employees their jobs.
The Wall Street Journal says more states are looking at tax breaks to woo jobs. Pawlenty is mentioned.
The Star Tribune takes a deeper look at Pawlenty's attempt to cut the corporate income tax.
State lawmakers will start taking a closer look at Gov. Pawlenty's budget. MPR and the Pi Press have stories.
Welfare fraud will also get some attention in the budget debate.
The Pi Press says conservation and arts groups are ripping Pawlenty's budget proposal.
Gov. Pawlenty tries to thread the needle on the federal stimulus package. He criticizes it but says he'll take the money.
The State Arts School fights to survive.
Transit backers say they expect an end to a major hurdle called the Cost Effectiveness Index.
A Minnesota county tries to block a tribal land buyback.
Old mining tunnels threaten a Minnesota highway project.
Pawlenty requests an ag disaster regulation.
Congress
The Senate is set to vote on a stimulus bill this week.
Businesses fare better in the Senate package.
Schools are wishing and hoping for the stimulus money.
President Obama keeps the rendition program.
He also says "Some banks won't make it."
DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar attended a Super Bowl party at the White House.
Democrats hoping for a filibuster proof Senate will be disappointed. It appears that a Republican will replace Sen. Judd Gregg, reportedly will be named Commerce Secretary.
Republicans say they'll take a wait and see approach to Tom Daschle's confirmation. Daschle revealed he didn't pay taxes.
The New York Times says Klobuchar is one of the many senators who are bringing a youthful feel to the Senate.
DFL Rep. Tim Walz visited Luverne.