Lori Swanson was former Attorney General Mike Hatch's close aide throughout his eight-year term. When he ran for governor in 2006 and the DFL's first endorsee for attorney general withdrew from that race, Hatch backed Swanson's run in the primary and general election. She won handily in her first bid for elected office, while Hatch was narrowly defeated in the governor's race.
Swanson was quickly embroiled in controversy, as dozens of staffers departed and a union accused her of retaliation against lawyers attempting to organize the office.
To date, Swanson has been comparatively low-key in what has historically been a high profile position whose holders have used it to build their reputations and propel further political ambitions, The last three attornies general in Minnesota left the post to run (unsuccessfully) for governor.
Party: DFL Age: 41; born Dec. 16, 1966 Family: Husband Gary Elected: 2006 Employment history: practicing attorney Minnesota Deputy Attorney General Minnesota Solicitor General Education: University of Wisconsin-Madison William Mitchell College of Law Website:www.ag.state.mn.us Phone: (651) 296-3353, (800) 657-3787
A suit settled in 2006 channeled funds to a nonprofit whose political wing later endorsed Mike Hatch for governor. The legislative auditor wants to know more.
State officials filed suit against Excel Dairy just north of Thief River Falls, charging that it has failed to abide by a range of environmental laws and operating permits.