The Daily Digest (Senate GOP admits pamphlets were political, Dayton’s State of the State, Vikes say Metrodome is home in 2012)

One day after defending their actions as being legal and above board, Republicans in the Minnesota Senate admitted that they violated campaign finance laws. Senate GOP spokesman Steve Sviggum confirmed that taxpayer funded literature directed readers to a website operated by the Senate Republican caucus. That site solicited donations and called for volunteers for political events. Sviggum said he made the mistake and will reimburse the Senate for the cost of the printing. Senate Democrats say the 15 Republican senators who authorized the literature also need to be held accountable.

Sviggum's apology came just minutes after the DFL Party Chair filed a complaint against the senators in question and the Senate Republican caucus.

Several senators, including GOP Senate Majority Leader Dave Senjem, said they reviewed the materials before distributing them at last week's precinct caucuses.

State of the State

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Gov. Dayton delivers his second State of the State address tonight at 7pm. MPR News will carry the speech live.

Tidbit: Expect Gov. Dayton to highlight his plans for job creation and economic development. The speech will also focus on the idea of maintaining the state's qualities for future generations.

The Pi Press says Dayton is aiming for a "hopeful" theme.

Vikings Stadium

Vikings officials acknowledged that they'll play the 2012 season in the Metrodome.

The White Earth Band appears to be jumping into the stadium fray.

Under the Dome

Gov. Dayton has welcomed a federal investigation into how the state runs its federal Medicaid program.

A House panel debated a bill that would end the statewide business property tax.

The Star Tribune reports that the Minnesota Campaign Finance Board isn't keeping up with alleged violations on lobbyist disclosure laws.

Legislators propose removing the school trust lands from DNR management.

A bill imposing stricter welfare laws stalls in committee.

The Star Tribune says asbestos victims oppose the company's push for liability shield in state law. Legislation is being pushed in the Minnesota Legislature this session.

Gov. Dayton has renewed his call for Minnesota businesses to adopt a school.

Voting

Opponents of a plan that would require people to present photo identification to vote are worried the requirement would end same day voter registration.

A study found that there are significant errors on the state's voter rolls. For example, 1.8 million dead people are registered to vote in the U.S.

A federal appeals court in St. Paul is considering whether clothing bearing political slogans should be allowed in Minnesota polling places.

Economy

The head of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve says the state is poised well for a recovery.

Congress

Congressional negotiators reached a tentative deal on an extension of a payroll tax holiday.

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, a Republican who is facing a recall, plans to join President Obama on his visit to the state today.

The Chinese blocked a visit by a U.S. religious freedom envoy.

Middle East

Syrian forces renewed their attack on Homs.

Race for Senate

Republican Pete Hegseth, a U.S. Army captain, is considering a run against DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Race for Congress

USA Today is reporting that the producers for Dancing with the Stars asked GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann if she would participate in Dancing with the Stars.

Race for President

President Obama is polling ahead of his GOP rivals.

Mitt Romney is working to win Michigan, a state that once elected his father governor.

Romney's likeability is fading.

Politico says Romney hasn't disclosed all his bundlers.

A super PAC backing Romney spends heavily to target Rick Santorum.

A poll says Santorum has taken the lead on Romney.