The higher-ed chair's awkward cell phone call

A light moment at the hearing yesterday:

Representatives were in the middle of a hot discussion of Republican-led budget cuts and tuition increases when Rep. Tom Rukavina (DFL-Virginia) asked a question of higher-ed committee chairman Bud Nornes, a Fergus Falls Republican.

Nornes looked startled for a second, as he was apparently in the middle of a quiet cell phone conversation. He hung up and said:

“Sorry, when my wife calls, I have to answer it.”

And the issue?

“I have a sick cat.”

Apparently not one to miss a chance, Rukavina chuckled and said:

“See? And to think you’re going to cut the veterinary school!”

Nornes answered:

“Well, just wish me well with the cat.”