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Pawlenty's big ideas: A sampler
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2002-03
Big idea: Took no-new taxes pledge, promising not to raise state levies. Result: Pledge made a powerful campaign theme, and Pawlenty pushed through a belt-tightening budget in his first year, balancing a record shortfall without state tax hikes.2003
Big idea: Proposed restoring Minnesota's death penalty in the wake of the Dru Sjodin murder. Result: Lack of legislative support quickly killed the plan.2004
Big idea: Declares war on high prescription drug prices; crosses FDA by launching state website for Canadian drug purchases; attempts to pressure drug giant Pfizer through state pension fund stock holdings. Result: Website gets only light traffic; Pfizer policies unchanged.2004-05
Big idea: Demands Indian tribes share casino profits with state, suggests Mall of America casino deal with northern tribes if they don't. Result: No change in state gambling policy.2005
Big idea: Proposes health impact "fee" on tobacco to break budget deadlock, insisting it does not break his no-new taxes pledge. Result: Revenue from fee breaks budget stalemate; fee upheld in court.2005-06
Big idea: Proposes broad action to deny services to illegal immigrants. Result: No significant change in state policy.2006-07
Big idea: Announces plan to provide health insurance for all children in Minnesota. Result: Only a minor expansion of coverage is enacted.2007
Big idea: In wake of bridge collapse, reverses course and says he would consider signing a gas-tax hike. Result: Nothing so far.Recent State Politics stories
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Current state office holders
Governor: Tim Pawlenty
One of only a few prominent Republicans to win a competitive re-election contest in the Democratic sweep of 2006, Tim Pawlenty is widely seen as politically shrewd and naturally likable.
- Lt. Governor: Carol Molnau
- Secretary of State: Mark Ritchie
- Attorney General: Lori Swanson
- State Auditor: Rebecca Otto
Minnesota's political giants: Learn more about the men and women who have shaped Minnesota's political history.
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