Governor Pawlenty

New York Times: G.O.P. Leader Wants to Be More Than Opposition

2009-04-15T16:49:00.002-05:00

By ADAM NAGOURNEY
Published: April 15, 2009

ST. PAUL — Ask Tim Pawlenty, the Republican governor of Minnesota, to describe the road that will bring his party back to power, and he offers a quick response.

“Some of it will be the inevitable pendulum swinging back,” he said. “The Democrats, being in full control of the White House and Congress, will inevitably overplay their hands. It is the predictable thing that happens when you have total power. They will go too far, and there will be an inevitable reaction to that.”

With that, Mr. Pawlenty settled back in a chair in his office here the other afternoon, realizing the problem with a strategy that is ultimately only reactive: In order for the Republicans to succeed, the Democrats will have to fail. “Feeding off what they do wrong is not a strategy,” he said. “We may get some tailwind from that, but it can’t be the central tenet of our strategy.”

At a time when Republicans are struggling to find new leaders — and to lay out a case against a popular president with big ambitions — Mr. Pawlenty’s ruminations reflect the dimensions of his party’s challenge.

At 48, Mr. Pawlenty, who has never served in Washington, is a potential new face for the national Republican Party. He is at the center of what the party’s leaders see as a critical debate: how to recover when the party is viewed so unfavorably by much of the public. Mr. Pawlenty is the two-term Republican governor of a swing state; he was on the short list of possible running mates for Senator John McCain of Arizona last year; he is frequently mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in 2012.

Mr. Pawlenty said that he is far from making a decision about whether to run for president, or for that matter, re-election next year as governor. But it was clear in the course of the conversation that he is thinking about ways to take on the Democratic Party in general and Mr. Obama in particular.

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Associated Press: Republican governor blasts Obama budget

2009-04-15T16:13:00.001-05:00

WASHINGTON (AP) — A possible White House contender in 2012 said in the GOP's Saturday address that President Barack Obama and the Democrats who run Congress should lower taxes and hold down spending.

"Let hardworking American families keep more of what they earn by cutting taxes and reining in spending," said Gov. Tim Pawlenty, R-Minn. "It's just common sense."

He said Democratic president's budget will require higher taxes and unfairly loads debt onto future generations. Pawlenty also said Obama has talked about tax relief, but his budget suggests he'll be raising taxes.

"I thought President Obama's proposal to eliminate capital gains taxes for small businesses was a pretty good idea. And his pledge to lower taxes for middle-class Americans was something Republicans wholeheartedly supported," Pawlenty said. "But the budget that Congress is considering doesn't provide that tax relief."

Click here to read the entire article and to watch the video.

Star Tribune: Click online and see how state spends your money

2009-03-27T11:06:00.000-06:00

Only a few clicks will enable taxpayers to get more details on how their dollars are being spent.

By KEVIN DUCHSCHERE, Star Tribune
Last update: March 26, 2009 - 10:40 PM

Minnesota's checkbook register went online Thursday.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty unveiled a new website, titled TAP Minnesota -- www.mmb.state.mn.us/tap -- that anyone with a computer can access to find out how much money the state is spending and where.

Figures for 2007-09 can be found by state agency, funding source or the vendor receiving the payment. Private data are omitted.

Special funds as well as the general fund can be searched, Pawlenty said. The site will be updated daily.

The governor said he hopes that taxpayers will use it to learn more about their government, scrutinize state spending and even wag a finger at profligate officials.

"We anticipate that this is going to be a powerful new tool," Pawlenty said at a Capitol news conference. "Taxpayers are paying the bills for government in Minnesota, and we think they should have a chance to look at the checkbook register and see where all this money is going in a great amount of detail, and be able to do that on a user-friendly, online, anytime basis."

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Star Tribune: Pawlenty unveils highway projects financed by stimulus funds

2009-02-25T12:00:00.001-06:00

By BOB VON STERNBERG, Star Tribune
Last update: February 25, 2009 - 10:30 AM

Gov. Tim Pawlenty this morning unveiled a list of 60 transportation projects in outstate Minnesota worth an estimated $180 million that will be financed by money from the federal stimulus bill.

Minnesota is expected to receive more than $596 million for state and local highway and transit projects over the next two years as a result of the federal legislation.

The Federal Highway Administration estimates that the outstate transportation projects will create approximately 5,000 jobs. Projects in the Twin Cities metro area will be announced in March.

The projects announced today include concrete rehabilitation on Interstate 94 near Monticello, repaving Highway 75 north of Ortonville and concrete replacement work on stretches of Interstate 90 in southern Minnesota.

The most expensive project, costing $18 million, entails rehabilitating Hwy. 53 north of Duluth.

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Pioneer Press: Minnesota, Wisconsin looking to help each other save

2009-01-13T14:29:00.002-06:00

By Bill Salisbury

Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle today signed an agreement to share services in order to cut costs and help both states cope with big budget deficits.

The pact directs agency heads in both states to identify possible areas of cooperation that would cut costs and provide services more efficiently. Minnesota faces a $4.8 billion budget shortfall over the next two years while Wisconsin has a $5.4 billion projected deficit.

During a press conference at the Minnesota Capitol in St. Paul, Pawlenty, a Republican who initiated the idea, called the agreement a "unique partnership" that has not been tried by other states.

Pawlenty didn't know how much the two states would save but said it would be "millions of dollars and maybe more."

Doyle, a Democrat, said it was an "enormously important opportunity" for both states. Wisconsin and Minnesota are similar in many ways, he said, and both states need to find ways to cut government spending during the current recession.

How would it work? Here's one example: The two states combined buy more than 600 tons of road salt every winter. Pawlenty said they could save nearly $1 million by bulk purchasing.

Click here to read the entire article.

Park Rapids Enterprise: Pawlenty promotes green jobs

2008-11-10T15:22:00.002-06:00

Don Davis, Capitol Bureau
Published Monday, November 10, 2008

Lower taxes for businesses that add jobs in renewable energy industries is a key part of Gov. Tim Pawlenty's 2009 economic plan.

As he was beginning a statewide tour announcing his $86 million "Green Jobs Investment Initiative," Pawlenty told reporters in a Capitol news conference Monday that he does not know how many jobs his plan would create. However, he said it would be a significant number and state officials predicted more than 114,000 million Minnesotans will hold such jobs in the next 30 years. About 15,000 Minnesotans work in green jobs today.

Green jobs are those involving the manufacture or other work on renewable energy components ranging from manufacturing wind-powered electric generator parts to making crop-based fuels.

Pawlenty's proposal, which needs legislative approval, would:

-- Create a nearly tax-free environment for businesses that create green jobs patterned after the Job Opportunity Building Zones program for struggling rural areas.

-- Provide a tax breaks to investors willing to spend money on projects creating green jobs.

-- Give companies that produce solar or biomethane gas (such as from landfills and manure) energy credit toward meeting the state's goal of providing 25 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2025.

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MPR: Pawlenty renews push to change teaching rules

2008-09-23T11:15:00.000-05:00

by Tom Weber, Minnesota Public Radio
September 23, 2008

St. Paul, Minn. — Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Tuesday outlined a number of education related proposals he plans to push for during the 2009 legislative session. It's the first set of initiatives from the governor for next year's legislative session.

The governor's package focuses on improving the quality of teachers by changing how they are paid, recruited and prepared for class.

Pawlenty proposes tying teacher pay raises to improvement in student performance. It's a step further than the QComp law Minnesota enacted a few years ago, which put more emphasis on merit in pay decisions.

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Star Tribune: Pawlenty unveils plan to revamp health care system in Minnesota

2008-07-30T11:44:00.001-05:00

Pawlenty's health care plan would allow patients to view records on secure websites and use debit cards to tap flexible spending accounts. For 50,000 state employees, it could be a reality by next year.

By PATRICIA LOPEZ, Star Tribune
Last update: July 29, 2008 - 11:22 PM

You're sick. Achy. You've got a nagging feeling that maybe this is a recurrence of that bug you picked up a few months ago.

Imagine logging on to your secured personal medical Web profile, checking results of previous lab tests, doing a few quick price comparisons on treatment options, then using your flexible spending account debit card to pay for eligible out-of-pocket costs.

That's what could soon be in store for all Minnesotans and what will be reality for the state's 50,000 employees as early as next year, Gov. Tim Pawlenty said Tuesday in a major health-care rollout that he said puts Minnesota in the forefront of consumer-friendly medicine.

Speaking to a health care alliance group at the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul, Pawlenty said his goal is to give all Minnesotans access to online personal health portfolios by 2011.

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Star Tribune: Legislature adjourns after budget deal reached

2008-05-19T10:34:00.002-05:00

Property tax relief, budget cuts and new public facilities add up to a session all sides called one of the most successful in years as the Legislature adjourned.
By MARK BRUNSWICK, Star Tribune
Last update: May 19, 2008 - 10:05 AM

Fireworks burst outside the State Capitol Sunday night -- a celebration of 150 years of statehood. But, for a change, few explosions occurred inside the historic building, after Gov. Tim Pawlenty and legislative leaders reached agreement on a budget that ended the 2008 legislative session.

The House and Senate processed bills to ratify the leaders' agreement, and both chambers adjourned shortly before midnight, with generally good feelings prevailing.

The closing deal means more Minnesotans will be covered by health insurance, more money will flow to public schools and nursing homes, a light-rail line between Minneapolis and St. Paul is a step closer to reality, and so is Minnesota's first new major state park in 40 years.

Property tax relief is also on the way, in several forms. Pawlenty and legislative negotiators agreed to limit increases in city and county property taxes to 3.9 percent annually for the next three years.

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Star Tribune: Pawlenty slashes $200 million from bonding bill

2008-04-08T16:28:00.001-05:00

The governor trimmed $200 million-plus from the bonding bill through line-item vetoes. DFLers said the cuts hit their districts, especially St. Paul, hard. But Pawlenty asserted they were neither personal nor political.

By MARK BRUNSWICK, Star Tribune
Last update: April 7, 2008 - 10:06 PM

Complaining about "misplaced priorities" that would fund a sheet music museum but not a new nursing facility for veterans, Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Monday slashed more than $200 million from the capital investment bill presented to him last week by the DFL-controlled Legislature.

The Republican governor had raised the prospect of vetoing the entire bill, which funds construction projects and has been held up this year as an important jobs package in a weakening economy. Instead, he reduced it by 13 percent to $717 million, using 52 line-item vetoes. DFL critics contended that he focused the cuts on their districts, particularly in St. Paul.

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WCCO: Pawlenty Names Former Law Partner As Chief Justice

2008-03-17T13:09:00.002-06:00

ST. PAUL (AP) ― Eric Magnuson, a former law partner of Gov. Tim Pawlenty, secured an appointment Monday to the Minnesota Supreme Court's top job, becoming the state's first chief justice in seven decades without prior service on the high court.

He replaces Russell Anderson, who announced last week he would retire in June. Magnuson, a noted appellate lawyer, had been in charge of screening judicial candidates for the governor.

"For 32 years, I've been thinking this would be a really good job," Magnuson said, with Anderson, the six other justices and relatives looking on. Magnuson, 57, cut his legal teeth as a law clerk to former Chief Justice Robert Sheran and as a clerk to Hennepin County District Judge Douglas Amdahl before he became chief justice. But he has spent most of his career in private practice.

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Pioneer Press: Pawlenty budget fix cuts spending, but also cuts sales tax

2008-03-07T16:38:00.001-06:00

Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 03/07/2008 04:03:02 PM CST

Gov. Tim Pawlenty's budget fix comes with a twist: In addition to spending cuts, he's proposing a statewide sales tax reduction.

The 1/8th of a percent cut to the sales tax would actually deepen Minnesota's anticipated deficit, which economic forecasters say will hit $935 million. Pawlenty, a Republican, said today that the sales tax cut would provide an economic stimulus and cost the state treasury $77 million over the next 16 months.

"This is a modest tax cut, but it's a step in the right direction," Pawlenty said.

His plan seeks to use $250 million from the state budget reserve and shifts another $250 million from a health care fund to cover subsidized care for disadvantaged Minnesotans.

Nobody will be removed" from government health programs, he said. But he said a planned expansion of coverage would be canceled.

Tax collectors would pull in $102 million more by doing away with an exemption some corporations used to shield income from overseas operations.

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Pioneer Press: Gov. Pawlenty predicts revolt over transportation bill tax increases

2008-02-27T08:57:00.002-06:00

By BILL SALISBURY bsalisbury@pioneerpress.com
Article Last Updated: 02/26/2008 04:26:07 PM CST

Gov. Tim Pawlenty today predicted Minnesota taxpayers would revolt against the gas and other tax increases that Democrats in the Legislature imposed on them Monday by overriding his veto of the transportation bill.

"Yesterday the DFL had their day raising taxes," Pawlwenty said at a Capitol news conference. "Now the taxpayers of Minnesota will have their days between now and when they get to decide how they want this Legislature to run in the future and who's going run it.

Yesterday will be the day that began a tax revolt in Minnesota," he said with uncharacteristic passion.
The transportation bill will increase the gas tax by 5.5 cents this year and up 8.5 cents in future years. It also levies a 0.25 percent sales in the metro area for transit, boosts motor vehicle license tab fees and increases other smaller taxes.

"Yesterday the DFL caucus took a bucket of tax increases and dumped it on the heads of hardworking Minnesotans at at time when they're stuggling to pay food costs, when they're struggling to pay health-care costs, when theyre struggling to pay gasoline costs, and the economy is shaky and their worried about their economic future."

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Coon Rapids ECM Publishers: Pawlenty Vetos Transportation Finance Bill

2008-02-22T17:16:00.002-06:00

Pawlenty vetoes transportation finance bill; Speaker Kelliher says votes for override are there

Friday, 22 February 2008
by T.W. Budig
ECM capitol reporter

Gov. Tim Pawlenty has vetoed the transportation finance bill passed Thursday (Feb. 21) night by lawmakers.

In his veto letter, Pawlenty expressed disappointment that lawmakers chose to ignore his “repeated” offers to work together on a compromise.

“This is a bill that goes way, way too far,” said Pawlenty Press Secretary Brian McClung, speaking for the governor who is on his way to National Governor’s Association meeting in Washington.

Standing outside the Governor’s Office,
McClung posed with the “Veto” stamp Pawlenty applied to the transportation bill.

He questioned why Congress on a bipartisan basis had crafted an economic stimulus package that included tax cuts while Minnesota lawmakers were raising tax.

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State of the State Address

2008-02-14T12:59:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, I delivered the State of the State address in St. Cloud. The state of our state is strong even as we are challenged by circumstances.

I strongly reminded DFL legislators of the need for government to live within its means just like Minnesota families and businesses are required to do. Minnesotans are facing challenging times with rising fuel costs and health care costs. Government should not add to the burden by demanding more in taxes. I also reminded DFL legislators of the availability of my “taxpayer protection pen” (aka veto pen) and my willingness to use it to control spending.

The prosperity of our citizens depends upon their ability to access good-paying jobs. For jobs to be available, businesses need to stay, grow and invent in Minnesota. Our large government and job-punishing tax structure in Minnesota reflects the demographics and economy of the 1960’s. We need to reduce taxes on income, investment, and entrepreneurial activities. I will create the 21st Century Tax Reform Commission to look at improving our tax system in a manner that makes Minnesota more competitive.

Once again, I urged the legislature to join me in passing legislation that caps how much property taxes can increase a year. This common sense approach has been used effectively in many other states.

Minnesotans are finding it more and more difficult to afford health care. During the speech, I also announced plans to make health care in Minnesota more affordable and focused on better health care outcomes. I believe these reforms can be passed yet this year.

Besides parents, the quality and effectiveness of teachers is the most important factor in determining the educational success of a child. Yesterday, I outlined several proposals to improve teaching in Minnesota, including: creating alternative pathways into teaching for highly talented mid-career professionals; requiring even tenured teachers to be evaluated and further trained on a regular basis; and creating a world-class e-curriculum so that students and teachers can have the best instruction available to them anytime and anywhere.

I also strongly urged the legislature to pass my proposal to further support members of the military, their families and veterans. During my speech I also outlined several other initiatives.

We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I am confident with your help, we will continue moving Minnesota forward.

Sincerely,

Tim Pawlenty
Governor

2007 Campaign Finance Filing

2008-01-30T09:41:00.000-06:00

(St. Paul) – The Pawlenty for Governor Committee is filing its Annual Report of Receipts and Expenditures for 2007 today. The committee will report over $850,000 in receipts and just over $640,000 in expenditures, with $375,285 cash on hand at the end of the year.

“I am grateful for the continued strong support my campaign committee receives from so many Minnesotans. Their support allows us to continue our grassroots efforts to promote our agenda and move Minnesota forward", Governor Tim Pawlenty said.

Campaign Political Director Trisha Hamm said, “The 14,000 contributions our campaign received in 2007 show support for Governor Pawlenty’s message which includes holding the line on taxes and requiring government to live within its means. The strategic expenditures we made this year to keep our supporters informed, build our fundraising capabilities and advocate the Governor’s strong agenda are all important investments for the future of our campaign.”

Pioneer Press: Pawlenty bonding proposal includes $225M for bridges

2008-01-14T13:34:00.000-06:00

BY DENNIS LIEN Pioneer Press
Article Last Updated: 01/14/2008 09:51:49 AM CST

Gov. Tim Pawlenty proposed a $965 million bonding package today, with much of the money directed at new and improved roads and bridges.

"This proposal is fiscally responsible and it sets key priorities such as replacing more than 600 local bridges,'' Pawlenty said in a statement.

The package, he said, rises to $1.09 billion when user-financed bonds, trunk highway bonds and extra cash are included.

Almost 40 percent, or $416 million, would go to transportation. Of that, $225 million would be dedicated for local bridges and $30 million for local roads. The Central Corridor light-rail project would get $70 million.

He said the local bridge amount is more than four times larger than the amount in any previous bonding bill in state history.

Click here to read the entire article.

Minnesota Public Radio: Pawlenty targets illegal immigration

2008-01-08T09:12:00.000-06:00

Pawlenty targets illegal immigration
by Tom Scheck, Minnesota Public Radio
January 7, 2008

Gov. Tim Pawlenty is renewing his call to crack down on illegal immigration in Minnesota. The governor's plan includes some initiatives that don't need legislative approval and some that do.

St. Paul, Minn. — The governor issued an order that takes several steps to deal with illegal immigration without legislative agreement.

It requires state law enforcement officers to work with federal agents to enforce immigration laws. It instructs the Department of Public Safety to review photos on the state's driver's license database for possible fraud. And it requires any new state employees and contractors who do business with the state to verify citizenship through an Internet-based system operated by the federal government.

Pawlenty said the steps are necessary to respond to illegal immigration.

Click here to read the entire article.

Budget Forecast

2007-12-03T16:03:00.000-06:00

December 3

While much of the nation's economy remains strong, the housing crisis and high oil prices are causing economists to predict an economic slow-down.

As a result, the State of Minnesota’s budget is now projected to have a $373 million shortfall during the current budget period. This deficit is about 1% of the general fund budget.

Since I have become Governor, we have achieved a long-standing goal to move Minnesota out of the top ten in taxes, and have kept a lid on State spending. The DFL doesn’t believe in the value of lower taxes or limiting government spending.

Predictably, their approach in times of deficit will be to increase state spending and raise taxes to pay for it.

We cannot tax our way to prosperity. The best way to stimulate the economy is to leave as much money as possible in the hands of hard-working Minnesota families.

Some relief can come in the form of closing a tax loophole for foreign corporations. This is a fair thing to do and brings Minnesota in line with how the federal government taxes such corporations.

Every time the suggestion is made to close this loophole, the Democrats want to use the money generated by the change for more government spending. No surprise there. They always want to spend more. I think we should use the money to provide relief directly to Minnesota taxpayers.

But I can’t present our message alone. I need your help delivering our message of limiting government spending and tax relief to legislators. Please visit our Action Center at http://www.timpawlenty.com/ to find out ways you can help.

Thanks!

Sincerely,

Tim Pawlenty
Governor

November 26

This afternoon I announced my selection of Chris Dietzen to serve on the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Judge Dietzen has a long and distinguished career as both an attorney and as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. He is a graduate of Gonzaga University, where he also received his law degree. For more than 30 years, he practiced law specializing in civil litigation and has served on the appellate court since 2004.

He has proven himself to be a strict constructionist who follows the rule of law with impartiality. In a time when legislating from the bench has unfortunately become more commonplace, Judge Dietzen has continually used judicial restraint and common sense in his opinions.

His strong experience, innate fairness and honest character will serve him well as the newest member of the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Sincerely,

Tim Pawlenty
Governor

Coon Rapids ECM Publishers: Pawlenty Administration presents $51 million veterans package to be submitted to Legislature

2007-11-12T22:33:00.000-06:00

by T.W. Budig

ECM capitol reporter

Minnesota Veterans Affairs Commissioner Clark Dyrud styled the proposal “a grand coming together.”

The Pawlenty Administration on Veterans Day (Nov. 12) presented a $51 million veterans package it will submit to the Legislature this coming session.

It isn’t a dream sheet, said Minnesota Military Affairs Adjutant General Maj. General Larry Shellito, speaking at a Capitol press conference.

The 35 initiatives contained in the proposal emerged out of a collaborative process, he explained.

Click here to read the entire story.

Star Tribune: Minnesota Poll: Show of support for Pawlenty

2007-10-03T10:08:00.000-05:00

Enjoying his highest approval ratings in four years, Gov. Tim Pawlenty has weathered a politically stormy summer.
By Mark Brunswick, Star Tribune

Gov. Tim Pawlenty appears to have weathered some of the most tumultuous events of his tenure, with 59 percent of Minnesota adults approving of the job he is doing as governor, a new Star Tribune Minnesota Poll shows. It is his highest approval rating in the poll since February 2003, shortly after he took office.

Click here to read entire article.

Fox 9 News: Pawlenty Proposes Small Business Assistance for '08 Session

2007-09-25T15:58:00.000-05:00

ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Rural Minnesota small business development is the first major initiative proposed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty for the 2008 legislative session. On Tuesday, Pawlenty outlined SEED -- his Strategic Entrepreneurial Economic Development program.

SEED is a combination of tax credits, loans, grants and other capital assistance to small business owners in Minnesota. Pawlenty will ask the 2008 Legislature to approve and pay the program with $20 million from the state's general fund and another $50 million in borrowed money.

Click here to read the full article.

KARE 11: Pawlenty announces state loans for Mesabi Nugget plant

2007-09-20T14:38:00.001-05:00

(Associated Press) Governor Tim Pawlenty said state agencies will lend $26.5 million to the Mesabi Nugget plant on the Iron Range, calling it a "transformational moment for northeastern Minnesota."

He signed a $16.5 million loan from the Iron Range Resources Board in Eveleth on Thursday and said the project will also get $10 million from the state Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Click here to read the full article.

Governor Pawlenty Signs Flood Relief Bill

2007-09-12T09:08:00.000-05:00

Just before 3:00 AM this morning, Governor Pawlenty signed the flood relief bill passed in the one-day special session.

As reported by the Pioneer Press, the bill includes:

- $51 million to repair and replace roads and bridges.

- $38 million for other public infrastructure projects, including repairing local sewer and water systems, city and county buildings, municipal utilities and state and local parks.

- $35 million in grants and loans to small businesses.

- $16 million in low-interest and forgivable loans to individual homeowners.

- $1 million for property tax abatements for flooded homes and businesses.

- $584,000 to clean up and repair schools and provide aid to offset pupils who left school districts after the flood.

Click here to read the rest of the Pioneer Press article.

Governor Pawlenty Calls Special Session

2007-09-10T18:37:00.001-05:00

The State Legislature will convene at 5:00pm Tuesday for a special session to provide aid needed from the recent droughts and flooding in Minnesota.

Click here to listen to the press conference, via MPR.

PIONEER PRESS: Pawlenty says special session must be limited to floods, transportation, cutting property taxes

2007-09-04T14:53:00.001-05:00

By Rachel E. Stassen-Berger

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty said he has begun to doubt lawmakers' willingness to focus a potential special session only on emergency issues.

Pawlenty, a Republican, voiced those doubts in a letter to Democratic-Farmer-Labor leaders Tuesday. He said his questions were prompted after reading an article in the West Central Tribune newspaper and talks his staffers have had with lawmakers.

"The sentiments expressed in the attached article and the discussions with legislators since our meeting last week raise questions about the DFL majority's willingness to keep a potential special session properly focused," he wrote.

Since the Interstate-35W bridge collapse on Aug. 1, lawmakers and the governor have considered the possibility of an interim legislative session to deal with the disaster. The massive flooding in southeastern Minnesota on Aug. 19 further fueled those discussions.

But the governor has said he will only call lawmakers into special session if he receives a detailed pre-agreement on what bills will be passed and the length of the session.

Click here to read the full article.

HometownSoure.com: Gov. Pawlenty announces proposal to require disclosure of flood insurance eligibility

2007-08-24T15:02:00.000-05:00

Elgin, Minn. – Visiting southeastern Minnesota communities hit by flooding, Gov. Tim Pawlenty Friday announced a proposal to require insurance companies to tell Minnesotans about their eligibility for flood insurance.

“Many Minnesotans are unaware they are able to purchase flood insurance for their home,” Gov. Pawlenty said. “In some cases, people living through this disaster in southeastern Minnesota were told that couldn’t get flood insurance. We need to ensure that people have good information when they buy insurance so they can make the best decision about what’s right for them and their families.”

Click here for more.

Governor Pawlenty Speaks to the Ethanol Conference

2007-08-08T15:07:00.000-05:00

The speech is online at domesticfuel.com.

Statement from Governor Pawlenty on I-35W Bridge Collapse

2007-08-01T22:18:00.000-05:00

Saint Paul – The following is a statement from Governor Tim Pawlenty regarding the collapse of the I-35W Mississippi River bridge in Minneapolis:

“This is a catastrophe of historic propositions for Minnesota. We want to say to the families who are being impacted by this that our hearts and prayers are with you. But we also want to make sure that you know we are doing everything we can to make sure that we respond as quickly as we can to the needs of this emergency.”

MPR: Pawlenty to ask for agricultural disaster declaration

2007-08-01T13:04:00.000-05:00

by Tim Post, Minnesota Public Radio

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty got a first-hand look at drought-damaged crops in central Minnesota on Tuesday. Pawlenty toured a Little Falls area farm, where a lack of rain has wilted the corn crop and stunted the hay crop. The governor says by the end of the week he expects to ask the federal government to declare many of Minnesota's driest counties disaster areas in an effort to free up federal and state assistance for farmers.

Click here to read the full article.

Pawlenty Tours Drought Area Today

2007-07-31T00:37:00.001-05:00

The St. Cloud Times has the details on the visit.

Click here to go to their story.

STAR TRIBUNE: Pawlenty revs up his peers on energy

2007-07-24T12:53:00.000-05:00

By Patricia Lopez, Star Tribune

TRAVERSE CITY, MICH. - With the nation's governors assembled before him, Gov. Tim Pawlenty said on Monday that the United States can no longer rely on "unstable and unfriendly" foreign sources for its growing energy needs and called for an "Americanization" of energy. As the new chairman of the National Governors Association, the Minnesota governor said that "securing a clean energy future" would be the group's top priority for the coming year.

Click here to read the full article.

Pawlenty Named NGA Chair

2007-07-23T10:41:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty officially took over as chair of the National Governors Association this morning. He announced his policy initiative will be "Securing a Clean Energy Future."

More details to come as press reports become available...

Stateline.org Story on Pawlenty Becoming NGA Chair

2007-07-20T12:14:00.000-05:00

By Pamela M. Prah, Stateline.org Staff Writer

Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty personifies Minnesotans’ reputation for being exceedingly polite. But beneath the mild manners lies a huge hockey fan hooked on hockeyfights.com, a Web site showcasing the bloodier side of the sport.

The two-term governor showed his more competitive side by delivering solid body checks to Democratic proposals to raise taxes in his state. His ferocity at blocking tax hikes is one reason some Republicans see this 46-year-old as a rising political star despite the wafer-thin margin of his re-election last fall.

Click here to read the full article.

Pioneer Press: New 2,500-acre state park proposed by Pawlenty

2007-07-18T10:02:00.000-05:00

photo courtesy of lakevermillion.com

By Bill Salisbury

Gov. Tim Pawlenty today proposed creating a new 2,500-acre state park on Lake Vermilion in northeastern Minnesota. It would be Minnesota's first new major state park in 28 years.

"This is a unique opportunity to create a next-generation state park on one of Minnesota's most beautiful and pristine lakes," Pawlenty said in a news release. "Today we are outlining a vision and asking local and legislative leaders to partner with us to make this a reality. A state park in this location would provide an up-north, place-at-the-lake experience for all Minnesotans."

Click here to read the full article.

FORBES MAGAZINE: Minnesota Moves Up to 10th Best State for Business, #1 Quality of Life

2007-07-16T17:52:00.001-05:00

Click here to see a slide show of the top states in which to do business, including Minnesota.

MPR: State effort to focus on school violence

2007-07-16T17:19:00.001-05:00

by Tim Pugmire, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — Gov. Pawlenty announced that the state Department of Public Safety will establish a new office to focus on school safety issues.

The Minnesota School Safety Center will coordinate all federal, state and local efforts to prevent school violence.

Click here to read the full article.

New York Times Features Pawlenty and QComp Initiative

2007-06-18T14:01:00.000-05:00

The New York Times has an article today about Governor Pawlenty and his efforts to modernize teacher compensation.

Here are some key excerpts:

"Here in Minneapolis, for instance, the teachers’ union is cooperating with Minnesota’s Republican governor on a plan in which teachers in some schools work with mentors to improve their instruction and get bonuses for raising student achievement. John Roper-Batker, a science teacher here, said his first reaction was dismay when he heard his school was considering participating in the plan in 2004.

“I wanted to get involved just to make sure it wouldn’t happen,” he said.

But after learning more, Mr. Roper-Batker said, “I became a salesman for it.” He and his colleagues have voted in favor of the plan twice by large margins."

Click on the logo to read the full article.

TIME MAGAZINE: Pawlenty Leading on Health Care and Energy

2007-06-18T13:53:00.000-05:00

This week's issue of Time Magazine has an article about state and local government taking on initiatives without the federal government.

Here's what they have to say about Governor Pawlenty:

"The Minnesota Governor's new health initiative rewards people who are serious about prevention and makes medicine more affordable. The state is set to reach a 20% ethanol standard by 2013 and draw 25% of its energy from renewables by 2025."

Minnesota Tax Ranking Drops...Again

2007-06-12T00:24:00.000-05:00

The Star Tribune has the details.

Click here to read the story.

Wall Street Journal: Governor Veto

2007-06-05T10:06:00.000-05:00

If he's looking for tips on handling Nancy Pelosi, President Bush might want to consult Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota. The Republican Governor is using his veto power to good effect on policy and making himself more popular.

Last month the Democrats who run the Legislature in St. Paul pushed through a big tax and spending increase in their $35 billion state budget. Last week Mr. Pawlenty responded by vetoing all six of the spending and tax bills the Democrats sent him.

Click here to read the full article (subscription required).

New Web Video With Governor Pawlenty

2007-05-25T01:03:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty's St. Paul Press Conference

2007-05-22T14:08:00.000-05:00

MPR has the audio.

Governor Pawlenty On the Latest Round of Bills...

2007-05-22T09:38:00.000-05:00

"I can't just say that bills that I haven't even seen yet, that spend $34 billion, that are 500 pages long or more, that I'm going to blindly just say, oh sure, I'll sign them.

That ain't the way it works."

CHANHASSEN VILLAGER: Pawlenty encourages scholars to serve

2007-05-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

Governor Tim Pawlenty spoke at the Chanhassen Rotary annual scholarship breakfast Wednesday morning about the importance of serving others.

“This country doesn’t work unless we have people with a heart of service,” he said. “Life is a relay race. Are the folks who are going to grab the baton ready?”

Click here to read the full article.

STEVE SVIGGUM: There's no need to raise taxes

2007-05-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Steve Sviggum, published in the Star Tribune

While Democrats want to portray the need for increased taxes in Minnesota as the all-or-nothing approach to provide property tax relief and adequate education funding this session, it does not need to be the case.

Minnesota has an additional $3 billion to spend on government programs this session (including the $2.2 billion surplus). That's a 9.8 percent increase in overall state spending. With those kinds of resources available, there ought to be enough to fund all of Minnesota's needs -- including education and property tax relief -- without increasing the tax burdens that will kill jobs and economic growth in our state.

Click here to read the full op-ed.

STAR TRIBUNE: Pawlenty vetoes gas tax, income tax bills

2007-05-16T09:34:00.000-05:00

By Patricia Lopez, Star Tribune

Gov. Tim Pawlenty struck swiftly and with strong language Tuesday to veto a gasoline tax increase and an income-tax-for-property-tax swap that were at the heart of the DFL's agenda for the session.

DFLers accused him of protecting the state's richest 1 percent -- those who would have borne most of the income tax increase, which would pay for the proposed property tax relief -- at the expense of everyone else. But they conceded that some of their top objectives are fast sliding out of reach.

Click here to read the full article.

Fish Count as of Lunch Break:

2007-05-12T14:22:00.000-05:00

Governor Tim Pawlenty: 2 Northerns, 2 Walleye, 1 Perch

First Lady Mary Pawlenty: 3 Walleye, 2 Perch

Lt. Governor Carol Molnau: 3 Walleye, 9 Perch

Fishing Opener Update

2007-05-12T10:17:00.000-05:00

Early reports are that the Governor is hauling in the fish this morning.

More details to follow...

THE PILOT-INDEPENDENT: Celebrations, dedications kick off Governor's Fishing Opener weekend

2007-05-10T09:49:00.000-05:00

by Gail DeBoer

After a year of anticipation and preparation, the Walker community is rolling out a big "Walker-style" welcome for the 2007 Governor's Fishing Opener on Leech Lake this weekend.
Gov. Tim Pawlenty, First Lady Mary Pawlenty, Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau and other dignitaries will be participating in several events Friday that are open to the public.

The Fishing Opener kicks off Friday morning with Pawlenty's weekly radio show. The public is invited to Jimmy's Family Restaurant to watch the live broadcast from 9 to 10 a.m., produced by WCCO AM. It is distributed by satellite by the Minnesota News Network and will be carried locally by KQKK 101.9 FM and KAKK 1570 AM.

Click here to read the full article.

DETROIT LAKES TRIBUNE: Pawlenty veto pen dashes DFL dreams

2007-05-10T09:45:00.000-05:00

Don Davis, DL-Online

Gov. Tim Pawlenty did as he promised — vetoed two more of the state’s major funding bills and pared down another.

And the Republican governor said he is ready to wield his veto pen some more.

However, he also signed a couple of bills. One funds public safety programs to the tune of $2 million. The other makes ticket scalping legal.

Click here to read the full article.

All across Minnesota...people are buying lures.

2007-05-09T17:11:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty got his today.

Polinaut has details and a photo.

And then there's this stellar quote:

"I'm going to practice catch and release just like I do with the DFL tax increases and budget through the roof bills. We do a little legislative catch and release when they send me these big tax hikes and spending bills. We're going to do the same on the lake this Saturday."

STAR TRIBUNE: Pawlenty endorses report on changing management of natural resources

2007-05-09T10:52:00.000-05:00

By Dennis Anderson

Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Tuesday enthusiastically endorsed a commission report calling for overhauling the way the state's natural resources are managed and the way that management is funded.

The 57-page study by the Governor's Conservation Legacy Council, formed by Pawlenty last fall, calls for a three-pronged revamping: passage by the Legislature this session of sales-tax-based dedicated funding for conservation; establishment of a citizen Conservation Commission, whose duties would in part include oversight of the Department of Natural Resources; and development of a Conservation Compact, or statewide natural resources management plan.

Click here to read the full article.

VIDEO: Governor Pawlenty on KSTP's "At Issue"

2007-05-08T17:44:00.000-05:00

Click on the image to watch this week's episode of "At Issue."

There is SOME fun being had at the Capitol...

2007-05-08T13:41:00.000-05:00

The Pioneer Press has the story.

Click here to read the article about some fourth-graders from Stillwater visiting the Governor's office.

TOM SCHECK: The governor seems to be in a groove

2007-05-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

In today's Daily Digest, MPR's Tom Scheck says Governor Pawlenty is in a groove.

Click here to read today's Daily Digest.

PIONEER PRESS: Pawlenty vetoes 2 major bills

2007-05-08T01:04:00.000-05:00

BY BILL SALISBURY

Gov. Tim Pawlenty's red veto stamp got a workout Monday as he rejected budget bills to fund state agency operations and jobs programs.

Pawlenty signed a $2 billion anti-crime package and said he would be signing an $865 million appropriation for environmental and energy programs.

That means he will have signed three and vetoed three of the 11 tax and spending bills that will define the state's two-year budget. He's vetoing objectionable bills quickly, he said, to give the Legislature time to fix and send them back to him before the May 21 constitutional deadline for adjourning.

The Republican governor accused leaders of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor legislative majorities of adopting a new "ping-pong approach" to budget-making. Instead of negotiating spending targets with him, as previous legislatures and governors have done, he said, this year DFL lawmakers are sending him the budget bills they like, and he sends back the ones he dislikes.

Click here to read the full article.

Countdown to the Fishing Opener: 5 Days!

2007-05-07T13:31:00.000-05:00

The Star Tribune has fishing tips from Chip Leer. Mr. Leer will serve as fishing guide for Governor Pawlenty and First Lady Mary Pawlenty this weekend.

Click here to see the article with Chip's tips.

POLINAUT: Agriculture and Veterans Bill Signing

2007-05-04T15:26:00.000-05:00

Tom Scheck at MPR's Polinaut blog has more on today's bill signing, as well as a photo.

Click here to go to Polinaut.

HOMETOWNSOURCE.COM: Gov. Pawlenty signs Agriculture and Veterans Omnibus Bill

2007-05-04T15:13:00.000-05:00

--NEWS RELEASE--

Saint Paul – Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Friday (May 4) signed the $170 million Agriculture and Veterans Omnibus Bill that strengthens the Clean Water Legacy Act, builds on the Governor’s Next Generation Energy initiative, and continues Minnesota’s commitment to members of the military and veterans.

“This bill includes key initiatives we proposed to help veterans, active military members and their families,” Gov. Pawlenty said. “It also focuses on renewable energy development and important programs to keep Minnesota agriculture growing.”

The legislation creates the Next Generation Energy Board, expands the Agricultural Best Management Practices Loan Program to improve water quality, and includes outreach and reintegration programs for Minnesota veterans.

Click here to read the rest of the release.

BRAINERD DISPATCH: Pawlenty lauds lakes area chamber education effort

2007-05-04T13:27:00.000-05:00

By MIKE O'ROURKE, Associate Editor

EAST GULL LAKE - Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Thursday described the Brainerd Lakes Chamber's education initiative as "nation-leading" and expressed disappointment the Legislature has only "symbolically funded it" at this point.

"It's very visionary," he told the crowd of more than 300 at the chamber's spring celebration at The Legacy at Cragun's.

Click here to read the full article (registration free, but required).

NEW ULM JOURNAL EDITORIAL: Bloated bonding bill needed vetoing

2007-05-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

Gov. Tim Pawlenty issued the first of what is expected to be a long list of vetoes on budget and spending bills sent to him by the Legislature. The state construction funding bill was a bloated mess that deserved vetoing.

The bill, which topped out at $334 million, was not only four times the size of the governor’s proposed bonding bill, it was a bill that actually grew in conference committee. Usually when conferees get together they are looking for middle ground. But the panel reconciling the House’s $255 million bill and the Senate’s $285 million bill decided to go above and beyond.

Look for the governor to do the same to other overpriced budget and spending bills. The DFLers in the Legislature lack the votes to override the veto, so they are going to have to go back to work and come up with something more to the governor’s liking. They have about three weeks to do so before the end of the session. They’d best get to work.

ALBERT LEA TRIBUNE: Pawlenty to come for vets memorial

2007-05-04T11:07:00.000-05:00

By Sarah Light, staff writer

Gov. Tim Pawlenty will make his second visit to Albert Lea in two months during the Freeborn County Veterans Memorial dedication on Memorial Day, his office announced Tuesday.

The dedication will take place at the site of the memorial on the lawn of the Freeborn County Government Center at 2:30 p.m., after a Memorial Day parade that starts at 1:30 p.m.

Click here to read the full article.

Governor Pawlenty on Almanac: At the Capitol

2007-05-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

The Governor was on Almanac: At the Capitol with Mary Lahammer last night.

Click on the image to watch the show.

Fishing Opener Details

2007-05-03T10:21:00.000-05:00

The Governor's annual fishing opener is next weekend in Walker. The Pilot-Independent has all the details.

Click here for details.

Watch Governor Pawlenty on "Alamanac: At the Capitol" Tonight

2007-05-02T00:06:00.000-05:00

TPT 17 at 7:00pm

Click here for Almanac's homepage.

BUSINESS JOURNAL: Gov. proclaims May "Hire A Veteran Month"

2007-05-01T23:58:00.000-05:00

Carissa Wyant, Staff Writer

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty has proclaimed May as "Hire A Veteran Month."

According to a press release, the Governor's office said it would support the national "Hire Vets First" campaign, which aims to help employers and veterans make use of a national network of employment resources.

The state's job Web site will include a new feature to attract veteran applicants. Employers may add the words "Veteran Friendly Employer" to their job postings on the no-fee Minnesota's Job Bank, on line at www.mnworks.org. Employers will be able to view resumes of qualified veterans, which will display first in resume searches.

ASSOCIATED PRESS: Pawlenty vetoes construction projects bill

2007-05-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

By BRIAN BAKST Associated Press Writer

ST. PAUL
Rather than spare the projects he liked, Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed an entire state construction funding bill Tuesday and told legislators they'll have to scale it back to must-do items if they want his signature in round two.

Click here to read the full article.

STAR TRIBUNE: 56% in poll approve of Pawlenty's job

2007-04-30T22:39:00.000-05:00

Patricia Lopez

Despite his often contentious relations with the Legislature, Gov. Tim Pawlenty is cruising along with a comfortable 56 percent job approval rating in the latest SurveyUSA monthly tracking poll.

The poll of 600 Minnesotans shows that nearly all Minnesotans have a well-defined opinion of the two-term Republican governor. About 40 percent disapprove of the job Pawlenty is doing, while only 4 percent have no opinion.

Click here to read the full article.

WEST CENTRAL TRIBUNE: Governor warms up veto pen, striking down small local bill

2007-04-30T20:51:00.000-05:00

The Associated Press, St. Paul

Gov. Tim Pawlenty is threatening to veto most of the Legislature's work on the state budget this year. On Monday, he warmed up by striking down a bill for local governments.

The legislation would have raised the spending limits for city charter commissions outside of the state's biggest cities from $1,500 a year to $5,000. Above that, elected city councils would have to approve any outlays.

Click here to read the full article.

McELROY: Government strives for efficiency

2007-04-27T13:34:00.000-05:00

By Dan McElroy, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

As published in the St. Cloud Times

While the St. Cloud Times Editorial Board is right to raise the issue of efficiency in state government ("Debate on efficiency is missing at Capitol," April 11), it does not provide a complete picture of what we have accomplished under Gov. Tim Pawlenty's leadership.

Hundreds of changes have been made in Minnesota's government operations, some large and strategic, others incremental and tactical. The work isn't always visible, and much of it requires no legislation, but all of it is being done to run Minnesota's government more efficiently and productively.

For example, there are fewer state agencies now than there were in 2003. This means fewer overhead operations and savings for taxpayers.

Pawlenty merged the Minnesota Department of Economic Security and the Department of Trade and Economic Development to create the new Department of Employment and Economic Development, the Office of Environmental Assistance merged with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and the agency known as Minnesota Planning was eliminated and its functions merged into the Department of Administration.

Click here to read the full editorial.

CPAC Photo

2007-04-26T22:49:00.000-05:00

This just in...

AUDIO: Governors Napolitano and Pawlenty on MPR

2007-04-26T01:33:00.000-05:00

Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — Improving the math and science skills of high school graduates is a priority for policymakers around the country. But how to accomplish that is far from certain.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty wants to make math and science education a higher priority, and he discussed that issue Wednesday with Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, as they visited the Minnesota Math and Science Academy, a charter school in Woodbury.

Napolitano, a Democrat, is president of the National Governors Association, and is touring the country in search of good national models for science and math education. Pawlenty, a Republican, is the NGA's vice president.

MPR's Tom Crann spoke with both governors about their goals for math and science education.

Click here to listen to the conversation.

The Pilot-Independent: Fishing hosts for Governor, First Lady and Lt. Governor announced

2007-04-25T21:57:00.000-05:00

The Pilot-Independent

For Chip Leer, fishing is more than a hobby or a pastime. It's a lifestyle; fishing is in his blood; he loves everything about it.

Leer, one of the founders of Fishing the WildSide, got his start in fishing as a guide in Alaska. From there he returned to his roots in northern Minnesota as a multi-species guide and resort owner.

His personal mission is to assist people in achieving their personal fishing goals while attracting newcomers to the sport with the excitement of fishing.

"I feel being asked to host Gov. Tim Pawlenty on opening day is a high honor, and with it comes quite the responsibility," Leer said when he heard of the announcement. "With the numbers of anglers qualified for this task, I am extremely humbled to have been chosen."

Read the full article.

Agri News: Albert Lea rolls out the green carpet for Pawlenty

2007-04-24T15:17:00.000-05:00

By Janet Kubat Willette

ALBERT LEA, Minn. -- Albert Lea and Freeborn County rolled out the green carpet for Gov. Tim Pawlenty.

The garage-slash-warehouse at Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services became a banquet room filled with 50 or-so tables, each sporting a green centerpiece with a tractor, some corn kernels, childrens' play animals and some standing grass.

A green carpet stretched from one end of the warehouse to the other and two shiny green John Deeres sat in opposite corners.

The stage where Gov. Tim Pawlenty spoke was decorated with a farm gate and hay bales. Pawlenty was the guest speaker at the second annual Freeborn County Agriculture Luncheon.

Click here to read the full article.

Pioneer Press Editorial: Poised for progress on mental health

2007-04-24T02:35:00.000-05:00

Pioneer Press

Those of us who like to sit back and throw mud pies at the occupants of the state Capitol need to deliver a bouquet of the sweetest-smelling spring daffodils for their work on behalf of those with severe mental illness.

The burden of severe mental illness is made much worse when our social networks do not offer the right kind of help at the right time. A family or patient looking for help needs everything our health care system can deliver. They need to know there is hope, and that the people of Minnesota are not going to leave them suffering alone.

So we praise the advocates, family members, legislators, health and human services officials and Gov. Tim Pawlenty for stepping up to help during this legislative session. Bills awaiting final action contain a substantial investment in services, in the work of the providers themselves and in the idea of a unified set of benefits that government insurance programs will cover.

Click here to read the full article.

Governor Pawlenty Rallies GOP at Conventions

2007-04-21T21:55:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty visited Republican congressional district conventions today in Medina, White Bear Lake and Waseca.

He was well received as he talked about the recent election, the legislative session, the future of the Republican Party and the need to develop more renewable energy in Minnesota.

VIDEO: Governor Pawlenty on TPT's Almanac

2007-04-20T22:56:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty appeared on TPT's Almanac this evening with hosts Cathy Wurzer and Eric Eskola.

They discussed his mental health initiative, the legislative session and his efforts to reform government.

Click here to watch the interview.

GOVERNOR PAWLENTY: You Did It!

2007-04-20T22:17:00.000-05:00

Click here to listen to our radio - "Taxed Enough"

Dear Friends,
As you know, two weeks ago we launched a radio ad - "Taxed Enough."

The point of the ad is that we have just climbed out of a huge budget deficit - now is NOT the time to raise taxes.

With your help and support, we're making a real difference.

In the two weeks since the ad started, thousands of you have visited our online action center to help spread the word that we do not need to raise taxes.

And I'm proud to announce that your generous financial contributions have allowed us to keep the ad running for a third week and to run it on even more radio stations across Minnesota.

But we can't let up now.

Huge tax increases are working their way through the Democrat-controlled legislature.

If you haven't already, please join me in this fight.

After all, why would we raise taxes when the state's coffers have a positive balance?

Please visit our online Action Center today to contact your legislator, send a letter to the editor of your local newspaper and take other actions to spread the word that you're taxed enough.

Click here to help spread the word.

Thank your for joining me in this fight and for all you do for Minnesota.

Sincerely,
Tim Pawlenty
Governor

P.S. Please visit our "Action Center" at www.TimPawlenty.com, where you can contact your local legislator or send a letter to the editor in support of not raising taxes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS: After few vetoes in 1st term, Pawlenty prepares to let loose

2007-04-20T21:42:00.000-05:00

By Brian Bakst, Associated Press

In his first four years, Gov. Tim Pawlenty had the luxury of serving alongside a Republican House majority, a line of defense that kept most bills he didn't like away from his desk.
Now that Democrats run the full Legislature, his veto power could get a workout — and a test.

A game of political chicken is in full swing as the 2007 session hits the home stretch. Almost every budget bill the House approved this week is a veto candidate, as are several Senate-passed plans.

Some people at the Capitol doubt Pawlenty's willingness to drive up his veto count, but Pawlenty said he won't be shy about using the executive power. His veto tally so far is among the lowest for Minnesota governors who have served at least four years.

"For me it's not a matter of volume," he said. "It's a matter of principle and what's right. I'm not going to set some artificial cap."

Click here to read the full article.

VIDEO: Pawlenty visits U of M Law School

2007-04-20T17:37:00.000-05:00

Governor Pawlenty visited his alma mater this week, the University of Minnesota Law School.

The Daily covered his visit with an article and a video.

Click here to read the article and see the video.

Worthington Post: A call for education reform

2007-04-19T11:06:00.000-05:00

The Worthington Post discusses Governor Pawlenty's recent trip to Worthington. While there he visited Worthington High School to discuss education reform.

Click here to read the article.

Editorial: JOBZ helps level the outstate business field

2007-04-18T16:49:00.000-05:00

Read the Full Article.

Governor talks development, visits Blazing Star Landing

2007-04-18T16:38:00.000-05:00

Read the Full Article.