Political tensions erupted at the State Capitol this week over what DFLers hoped would be a straightforward measure to extend unemployment benefits for laid-off Iron Range miners.
It all seemed to start harmlessly enough.
The bill was a win-win, Rep. Dave Baker, R-Willmar, assured legislators: It would extend jobless benefits for Iron Range workers, but it would also give Republicans a huge win by offering a massive reduction in unemployment insurance taxes for businesses.
"Thank you, Mr. chair," said Rep. Jason Metsa, a DFLer from Virginia.
Then he unleashed.
"You just said [DFL lawmakers] don't give a [expletive] about our local businesses on the Range. … Are you freakin' kidding me? Are you kidding?"
"I don't think I said you don't give a [expletive]," Baker said. "I think what I said is, 'This also supports the small businesses as well as the workers.' "
With that, Baker and his allies in the committee approved the measure and set the stage for the political fight to come when the Legislature meets next week.