The crowd at Norm Coleman's press conference was motivated.  They were very supportive of his effort to challenge the election results in court.  It was great for him to see and hear so many supporters, but for the press and the safety of others they weren't exactly helpful.  The room had to be way over capacity.  You couldn't walk in or out of the doors (my photographer was stuck outside unable to move through the crowd). 

The supporters yelled and cheered which generally makes good TV, but sometimes they yelled over the person they were there to support.  And when some members of the press tried to leave the room when Coleman completed his remarks they were heckled and screamed at for leaving early before the lawyers talked.  I'm sure the supporters didn't know the press had deadlines and had to run out to file their stories, they were just trying to do their jobs.  As one member of the press asked "Do I go to your job and tell you what to do?'  The animosity seemed to increase with the website The Uptake repeatedly trying to get press materials.  It's a tough road for non-traditional or partisan media to get access in the traditional world at the Capitol.  No one wants to really make or enforce rules.  Journalism is supposed to be about inclusion, journalism is just changing so fast.  

Gov. Pawlenty convened his reform summit and said there will be cuts and challenges, but also opportunity.  He said again that he is open to revenue neutral tax changes, but add "no credible economist" will say now is the time for tax increases and noted even Obama is backing off from them. 

But the Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher used the "revenue" word saying a solution will "probably include revenue" while cuts are going to happen but she doesn't know how the governor or leaders solve this without "revenue."

But, it doesn't seem Sen. Pogemiller is on the same page.  He said he was not ready to use the word "revenue" yet because "the governor has been firm that he's not going to raise taxes."  Poge also wants to pass small pieces of a budget deal as they can agree which would be a big shift from the "global deal" of the past.

The Canvassing Board certified Al Franken as the winnner.  Franken claimed victory in front of his home.  Coleman will speak tomorrow, his lawyers said today they will challenge in court. 

Meanwhile, the state Supreme Court shot down Coleman's effort to add more ballots. Here's the reaction:

COLEMAN FOR SENATE STATEMENT ON TODAY’S SUPREME COURT RULING

ST. PAUL - Coleman for Senate Counsel Fritz Knaak today issued the following statement regarding the Minnesota Supreme Court’s ruling today.

“Given our campaign’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the vote of no Minnesotan is disenfranchised, today’s ruling by the Minnesota Supreme Court is both disappointing and disheartening.  The fact that the Franken campaign now rejects the notion of every valid vote being counted so they can attempt to declare victory on the basis of a broken process, and an artificial lead built on double counting of votes should concern all Minnesotans.  Today’s ruling, which effectively disregards the votes of hundreds of Minnesotans, ensures that an election contest is now inevitable.  The Coleman campaign has consistently and continually fought to have every validly cast vote counted, and for the integrity of Minnesota’s election system, we will not stop now.  The Minnesota Supreme Court has made sure that an election contest will need to be filed quickly in order to ensure that an accurate and valid recount can be achieved.”

With the session starting tomorrow, the first rally of the week is taking place in the Capitol Rotunda.  There is standing room only for people urging health care for all in the "Minnesota Health Plan."  The Greater Minnesota Health Care Coalition organized the event.   Their pitch it is that "in economic bad times AND good, the cost of health care and the accessibility to it continue to be a growing hardship on the citizens of Minnesota."  Rally goers took a page from the Obama playbook, chanting "single payer, yes we can!"  This may be the sleeper issue of the first week of session, another statewide coalition is launching "Make Health Happen" on Thursday which is a plan for health coverage for all Minnesotans. 

The group today has about 20 speakers lined up (too many and too long a list for the press on a busy news day--we were the only TV camera there).  Our nightly updates from the Capitol start today.  The 90 second summary of the day's action will be available here on tpt.org/politics, you can watch it on TV following the NewsHour at 6:55 on TPT-2 in the Twin Cities, and for the first time statewide on the Minnesota Channel on all public TV station's digital channels across the state.  Most of the Capitol Press Corps are busy covering what could be the final State Canvassing Board meeting completing the recount and setting the stage for an actual winner in the Senate race.  Of course it'll be headed to court regardless...

Returning from vacation and looking back at the year, I decided to put together my Minnesota Top Ten Political Stories of 2008.

1. The Recount:  It may be the top story of this year too if it keeps going.  The most expensive and ugly political race in state history has continued, and continued, and continued.  It seems the state was split and rather lukewarm about Coleman and Franken.  I'll make no predictions about who "wins" and when.

2. Pawlenty Almost VP:  Keeping track of where and when VP candidate Pawlenty would surface was tough work for local political reporters.  He was everywhere.  He nearly got the number two job.  After not getting the nod, Pawlenty said he "doesn't get disappointed."  He might be super steady, but c'mon he is human.  The question is if he'll run again for gov. (I doubt it) and if he gains traction as a presidential candidate?

3. Transportation Override:  For the first time lawmakers overrode Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto.  A bridge fell down.  Dems crafted a deal and did the impossible.  Republicans suffered for it.

4. RNC:  The world did watch our wonderful Twin Cities shine (generally).  The protests got more local news than national play, so overall the country seemed to think St. Paul did a fine job hosting a huge event.  Republicans got the convention bounce they needed, but it didn't last.

5. Obama in St. Paul:  He might not have made many campaign visits here, but the biggest day of the campaign happened in a packed Xcel in St. Paul.  Obama secured the Democratic nomination in the place Republicans would officially choose their nominee.  It was the loudest and most emotional political rally I have ever covered.

6. Palin Shopping Spree:  Hey maybe it was a good economic stimulus for the local economy.  The hockey mom's big ticket suits and spending spree at Neiman Marcus created a big problem for her Average Joe image.  And that may could the memory of the solid speech she delivered in St. Paul that had quieted her skeptics.

7. Bachmann Bashes Obama/Media:  Later calling it an "urban myth" Congresswoman Michele Bachmann made big news after questioning Obama and members of congress for "un-American" views, though she says she didn't say that.  We've all seen the tape.  She did damage control and won.

8. Republicans Retention:  Going into the election, with the economy down, a Republican president's dismal approval ratings, and the GOP ticket topper behind, few Republicans really thought they would hold on to all of their congressional seats.  Most betting people thought either Bachmann or Paulsen were going to lose.  Paulsen's margin of victory surprised most observers.

9.  DFLers Do Well:  Dems fell short of an override majority in the House, but picked up a couple of seats.  The Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher probably deserves the most improved politician award this year.  Her level headed leadership helped guide a session-ending deal that seemed unlikely and gained praise from all involved.   The question is will she run for governor?

10.  Jesse Surfaces:  Remember when the nation was watching that odd appearance on Larry King to see if former Gov. Jesse Ventura would run for Senate.  He seemed to love the attention, but again cited his family for the reason to stay away from politics.  In his only local interview, Ventura told me how his Mexican retreat has help his wife Terry's health.  They are still Minnesota residents.  He's also sure 911 was a conspiracy...

The list of Dems running for governor continues to grow.  After getting creamed by Arne Carlson in the 90s, Mr. Ethics is trying again.  Here's the info:

Senator John Marty Announces Exploratory Campaign for Governor

Monday, December 22, 2008

After receiving strong encouragement from health care reformers and others, Senator John Marty is launching an exploratory campaign for Governor and johnmarty.org today. The campaign is being announced through email and other contacts to thousands of health reform advocates and other Minnesotans.

Marty is author of the proposed MN Health Plan, a bold initiative to ensure that all Minnesotans have access to affordable health care. Senator Marty first received statewide recognition for his leadership on ethics and campaign finance reform issues.

"This is a true exploratory campaign to connect with Minnesotans and hear about their vision for a better Minnesota," Senator Marty explained. "People want a government that works for them instead of special interests. They want living-wage jobs and quality schools, not large taxpayer subsidies for private businesses. They want cost-saving investments in children, positive steps to prevent domestic abuse and violence, and health care that's affordable for their families in good times and bad. I am confident that working together, we can meet these challenges."

Senator Marty chairs the Senate Health and Housing Committee. He also serves as the co-chair of the Legislative Commission to End Poverty. Senator Marty and his wife Connie have two adult children and live in Roseville.

(A copy of the announcement letter from supporters to activists is included below. Photos of John Marty are available at www.johnmarty.org/press)

johnmarty.org

Dear friends:

Our state and nation face challenges that will not be solved by business as usual – the worst economic times since the great depression, the foreclosure crisis, rising unemployment, and increasing economic and social disparities. These challenges require the kind of change that is only available from a leader of vision and courage.

That's why we are encouraging John Marty to run for Governor, and today we are announcing the formation of an exploratory campaign. Please join us at johnmarty.org

We are encouraging Senator Marty to run for Governor because of his vision, his strength, his integrity and his courage. Minnesotans are eager for change. We don't want politicians to continually tell us that universal health care will never happen, or that decent wages for workers are unrealistic, or that adequate funding for schools isn't feasible. We want a governor who will work with us to make things happen. We are confident John Marty can provide that leadership.

We have seen John Marty's leadership in health care reform. Senator Marty is the candidate with the vision to design the Minnesota Health Plan – the only plan around that would provide affordable health care to every Minnesotan. We have observed John's strength, day after day, giving voice to Minnesotans' need for a health care system that works. He is building a growing coalition of individuals and organizations who support this bold reform. John is the candidate with the integrity to reject all money from the pharmaceutical and insurance industries and all other special interests. That kind of courage enables him to stand up and fight for, and win passage of, the Minnesota Health Plan.

John Marty is rooted with conservative values – honesty, fairness, respect, frugality;
John Marty has a progressive vision – healthy families, a safe environment, good schools – a better future.

Please join us. Go to johnmarty.org

• Sign up to show your support.
• Share your encouragement, ideas, and concerns.
• If you can, make a small contribution – even $20 helps.
• And, please, forward this email to friends and family, adding a note explaining why you support John Marty for governor.

Sincerely,

The Marty for Governor exploratory campaign

Gov. Pawlenty announced his budget cuts to solve the current $400 million budet shortfall today.  Local government aid takes the single biggest hit at $100 million.  City leaders say some cuts will be drastic and could affect police and fire departments. It's not going to be a very merry Christmas for many.  Lawmakers don't seem too outraged only the speaker is having a press event at the Capitol.  I guess they feel better having him rather than them making the cuts.

With so many hurting I'm surprised companies and some publicly funded entities are still sending out Christmas cards.  I'm not going to name any names, but here's the stack of cards in my mailbox today (I'm sure I'm off their Christmas lists now).  I don't mean to be a Scrooge here, but it's not good PR to send out corporate holiday cards, especially to a reporter during a massive economic downturn.

And with so much chatter about Mickey Mouse ballots at the Capitol this week, I should fess up that I haven't been blogging much this week because I was visiting Mickey myself with my family.  It was my birthday this week. Even reporters need a break from the recount.  And interestingly enough, Disney appears pretty recession-proof, it was packed.

The report to the State Canvassing Board is that of the 12,000 rejected absentee ballots, 13% appear to be wrongfully rejected.  So far 4,823 rejected absentee ballots have been reviewed, 638 were wrongfully rejected as determined by local election officials.  That 638 margin is interesting because that's larger than the difference in votes between Coleman and Franken, not that they'll all go one direction, but it's a significant number that could carry forward statewide to nearly 1,600 new votes.

The board is recommending that counties review rejected absentee ballots for obvious errors or "allegedly wrongfully rejected" absentee ballots and report the new totals to the board for review.  The judges wanted to be clear they were not ordering counties what to do and the board does not have the authority to do so.

As far as challenged ballots, the 6,665 has been reduced to 4,472.  That still staggering amount brought an audible sigh from Canvassing Board member Judge Kathy Gearin who sounded off that "you'd have to be deaf and dumb" not to hear people wondering if all the challenges are serious.  She pleaded with the campaigns "please, please be serious." Secretary of State Mark Ritchie said he was "not happy" with the amount of paper he's gotten from the campaigns and wants their time dedicated to reducing the number of challenged ballots so they can and will finish next Friday Dec. 19.

The interest is intense, the fire marshal ruled that no one can stand in the room in the State Capitol so an overflow room has been set up with a TV feed in the Capitol Cafeteria. 

At the annual AP press briefing Gov. Pawlenty announced a state hiring and salary freeze--and he expects the same from cities, counties and school districts. If they don't it the governor said it will be "noticed." Pawlenty again vowed significant and dramatic changes to taxes, education and health and human services in light of the large budget deficit. He said there is going to be a "real impact on people." And that non-tax revenue the governor had mentioned is not fees but maybe privatizing thing like the lottery or airport. When asked about his level of engagement and national aspirations he said "this is a major crisis for the state" but didn't directly deny national ambitions. He joked some cuts could include space for the Capitol Press Corps which we do pay for.

Legislative leaders then told the press they expect swift action on the current shortfall before session starts in January. They hope to work out a compromise on unallotment with the governor.  Taxes is where they expect to differ although Democrats aren't talking specific tax increases yet, but Speaker Anderson Kelliher said to "take away a tray in the toolbox would be shortsighted." Seifert and Pogemiller got into a testy exchange when the GOP leader questioned arts spending on a film about clowns, puppet shows and documentary about "bitter and crabby" people.  Poge shot back to look for this as a "fracture point" as some try to "steal" arts and environment money set aside by the passage of the new constitutional amendment. The DFL leader then said to Seifert "I'd encourage him to lighten the rhetoric."  Still no love lost between those two.

Former Republican Governor Arne Carlson will address the House DFL Caucus this weekend at the invitation of Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher.  This Fall Carlson endorsed Barack Obama for president.  This year's crop of House Dems will discuss how to begin dealing with a more than $5 billion dollar shortfall. 

Speaking of solutions, the governor's Budget Commissioner Tom Hanson had an interesting exchange in Ways and Means today with Majority Leader Tony Sertich.   The newly spectacled Sertich asked about Gov. Pawlenty mentioning "non-tax revenues" and wanted clarification of what exactly are non-tax revenues?   This one seemed to stump Hanson as he took 21 seconds to come up with an answer that they'd "share" that information in coming weeks, but looking back to other deficits you'd see "similar similarities."

Can you say fee increases?  That's the "similar similarities" I can think up.

Check it out at 1:45:00 into the clip.