Almanac: At the Capitol

Now that the session is over, the campaign can begin. Gov. Pawlenty and Democratic legislative leaders are flying around the state listing their accomplishments. This year they all have something to brag about. Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher said "I believe we'll pick up seats." What they want is to pick up half a dozen seats so they have a veto-proof majority like the Senate majority. Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller said "if the speaker and majority leader of the House have a successful campaign this year that will make all of the difference next year as to whether we can address the fiscal problems in the state and make the necessary investments in a sound, united, prosperous Minnesota." That could be code for more overrides or at least the threat of overrides to the governor and investments usually mean tax increases.

Pogemiller said the transportation override changed the dynamics of the session and forced Pawlenty to work with them. Speaker Kelliher got credit again for the deal, Pogemiller said "there's no way to analyze the last several years emerging from gridlock and inaction and lack of leadership, there's no way not to conclude that the strength of the House leadership is what has made the difference." The speaker officially checked off the accomplishments she promised she'd be "focused on like a laser beam" of education healthcare and property taxes.