The Daily Digest: 11-7-08
236 votes separate GOP Sen. Norm Coleman and Democrat Al Franken. Both candidates are also preparing for a recount. Coleman's campaign manager sent a letter to County Elections officials to keep round the clock security over the ballots. Franken started raising money for the recount.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Mark Ritchie said he may hold a recount meeting with the parties involved. MPR, the Pi Press, the Star Tribune, AP and Forum Communications have stories.
Meanwhile, Coleman's campaign is looking for recount watchers.
Franken told MPR's Midday that he won't waive the recount.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
The Fargo Forum says counties are bracing for the recount.
Meanwhile, former U.S. Attorney Tom Heffelfinger will not head Coleman's recount team.
Secretary of State Mark Ritchie will be on Midday at 11 this morning to talk about the recount.
AP says an official recount would occur but other avenues (including legal challenges) could overtake it. The Senate could also determine the winner.
MinnPost says the DFL blew a big opportunity in several key races.
Pawlenty
The Pi Press ponders Gov. Pawlenty's presidential probability and the Republican party's future.
Legislature
As expected, House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher and House Majority Leader Tony Sertich have been reelected to their positions by the DFL Caucus.
Congress
Congressman-elect Erik Paulsen wants to join the House Ways and Means Committee.
GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann praises Obama but also said she hopes disagreement with Obama won't be considered racism.
DFL Rep. Collin Peterson wants a higher bio-blend.
DFL Rep. Tim Walz calls for greater cooperation in Congress.
Obama Transition
President-elect Obama will hold a news conference today at 1:30 Central. MInnesota Public Radio will air his comments live on the radio.
Obama will meet with his Economic Advisory Board today. Here's the reported list of attendees.
President Bush and Obama will meet next week.
Rahm Emanuel takes the job as White House Chief of Staff.
DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar says it's unlikely that he'll accept a post in the Obama Administration.
There is also speculation that DFL Rep. Collin Peterson could be tabbed for Ag Chief.
Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak says he's not looking to join the Obama cabinet.
Economy
U.S. employers cut 240,000 jobs last month.
Retailers also report decreased buying.
Workers at Cliffs Resources is preparing for layoffs including jobs cuts on the Iron Range.
A Northwest Airlines customer center is closing in Minot.
Finally
The Digest will be taking next week off to work on our transition team. There really isn't a transition occurring but I'm exhausted and need to take a break. The blog will continue to post updates on the Senate recount, etc. I just won't be getting up at 6 AM to do it. The Digest will resume the week of November 17th - Which will now be known as Recount Week. Have a nice weekend.