world

But Thompson conceded that the threat of terrorism has affected the health agenda, including proposals to add prescription drug coverage to the Medicare program.

Many seniors in Minnesota can no longer afford to buy the supplemental insurance that helps pay for medications. Thompson agreed that there is a need for some drug coverage in Medicare.

"There's an outside chance, but I am not looking for anything to happen on that soon," he said. "It is more logical that it will be next year. But I am an optimist."

-- Glenn Howatt is at howatt@startribune.com .