April 24, 2001 - MPR’s Michael Khoo reports that a Senate panel approved a campaign finance reform package championed by Governor Jesse Ventura. Some reform activists say the measure doesn't go far enough, while opponents say the bill is unconstitutional.
April 25, 2001 - MPR’s Art Hughes reports on first public forum of three mayoral candidates. Affordable housing, downtown development and policing issues are among the main topics debated by the three candidates for Minneapolis mayor who are vying for the DFL endorsement. Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton debated challengers Lisa McDonald, Minneapolis City Council member; and R.T. Rybak, community activist/internet consultant.
April 26, 2001 - MPR’s Andrew Haeg reports that the CEOs of twenty companies from Finland are in the Twin Cities to meet with local business leaders, and to explore potential business opportunities. The group attended a two-day workshop at a local law firm where they listened to an address by Governor Ventura, who has often promoted foreign trade and investment to boost the state's economy.
April 26, 2001 - As part of Mainstreet Radio series Broken Trust: Civil Rights in Indian Country, MPR’s Bob Rhea reports on the fight for religious freedom of Native Americans, including those incarcerated.
May 7, 2001 - MPR’s Tasya Rosenfeld talks with Blois Olson about Minneapolis DFL convention. Supporters of Sharon Sayles Belton are questioning what went wrong for the mayor at the Minneapolis DFL endorsing convention. Newcomer R.T. Rybak pulled off a political upset, finishing with a dozen more votes than the mayor. It wasn't enough to reach the 60 percent necessary for party endorsement, but it did prevent the endorsement from going to Sayles Belton or city councilmember Lisa McDonald.
May 8, 2001 - The Minnesota Senate approved a Health and Human Services funding bill with an abortion provision that Governor Jesse Ventura has promised to veto. Supporters of legalized abortion say funding for essential state services is being held hostage to abortion politics and possibly creating a deadlock or forcing a special session. But abortion foes say their plan to create a 24-hour waiting period for abortions is moderate and deserves the governor's signature.
May 8, 2001 - MPR’s Andrew Haeg reports on trade dominating Governor Jesse Ventura's agenda. Ventura met with a Chinese trade delegate and local businesspeople to push for closer economic ties between Minnesota and China. He also visited the Canadian Consulate where he announced an upcoming trade mission to Canada.
May 14, 2001 - Marv Koep, the fishing guide for Governor Ventura's fishing opener, discusses what he is expecting and how he is preparing for the big day. He says he's excited to have such a colorful governor in his charge, but he's also a little nervous.
May 14, 2001 - MPR’s Gary Eichten talks with former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Eugene McCarthy about politics and a new documentary about his life, titled “I'm Sorry I Was Right.” McCarthy also answers listener questions.
May 15, 2001 - MPR’s Laura McCallum reports that Governor Ventura has vetoed a sweeping health and human services bill because it contained an abortion waiting period. Meanwhile, the DFL-controlled Senate narrowly rejected the waiting period while working up a backup health and human services package.