By Joe Spear
Free Press Editor
Seems like Independence Party candidate for governor Tom Horner would have been the shoo-in Republican contender in years past, and would have had a pretty good shot at being elected as such.
I'm thinking of Arne Carlson's tenure. Horner is an experienced business executive, knows how to compromise, but also could come out strong as a fiscal conservative. Unfortunately, neither major party appears to attract or promote this kind of candidate.
While Minnesota has elected an independent before, the odds are always tough, especially if that candidate can't attract first time voters, who tend to not participate unless they're really frustrated or the domestic situation is untenable.
The candidates and parties have changed a lot, but I don't think Minnesota voters are all that different than they were in the 1990s.
The Star Tribune's editorial about the Republican candidates seems a little like damning with faint praise. The focus seemed to be asking if GOP candidates can solve "gridlock." Strib suggested neither Republican candidate had much experience doing that.
Still think we ought to reduce legislator restrictions on going out for coffee or having drinks at sponsored events. They talked more and were a little less fundamentalist in their views when they can have a common drink together.
Good info tip of the day
Here's my "good info" tip of the day. It sounds like Republican Sen. Julie Rosen doesn't like what Pawlenty administration is doing on shutting down mental health centers, including one in Mankato.
We commented on that decision a few weeks ago.
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I believe the GOP candidate (Tom Emmer) is a most troubling party selection and unfortunately shows the trend of the Republican Party.
ReplyDeleteI'd never vote for either of the two, but both Emmer and Seifert are conservative, but Seifert is a level-headed, well-read, kind of witty in a dry way and mild-mannered candidate - whereas, Emmer is a shoot-from-the-hip, hockey dad and appease the Tea Party candidate.
It is like a William Buckley versus Sarah Palin. The fact that Emmer would consider introducing a bill that would call for castration of some sex offenders is proof enough he is not qualified to lead the Minnesota Republican Party.