The Daily Digest: The uncertain 8th

Good morning!

In Minnesota

Democrats say they can no longer take the northeastern part of the state for granted anymore and are redoubling their efforts to keep the congressional seat there and turn out voters. (MPR News)

Gov. Mark Dayton is out with his first television ad of the campaign, a hockey-themed piece entitled "Darn Good Coach" that talks up the Democratic incumbent's first-term accomplishments. (Star Tribune)

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.

Unions are central to Dayton's re-election effort. (Star Tribune)

National Republicans are running ads calling 8th District DFL Rep. Rick Nolan weak on terrorism. (The Hill)

Republican gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson is replacing his campaign manager. (MPR News)

The PoliGraph takes a look at a DCCC ad against Republican Torrey Westrom in the 7th Congressional District. (MPR News)

Unlike recent election cycles, the congressional race in the 6th District is relatively sleepy this year. (St. Cloud Times)

National Politics

Republicans, including 8th District candidate Stewart Mills, have been trying to deflect potential Democratic attacks on issues important to women voters. (NPR)

Democrats are talking up Social Security in an attempt to shore up their position with older voters. (New York Times)

Gabby Giffords, irreproachable figure of sympathy, has fashioned an improbable new role for herself this election year: ruthless attack dog. (Politico)

Sen. Amy Klobuchar may not have are-election battle this year, but she still finds herself smack dab in the middle of a campaign — a national crusade to keep women in the Senate and in leadership. (St. Cloud Times)

While Scots may have voted to remain part of the United Kingdom, dreams of secession live on worldwide. A new poll shows that nearly a quarter of all Americans support their state leaving the union. The Republic of Minnesota, anyone? (Reuters)