Over the decades, MPR has presented the many different perspectives of Minnesota politics and politicians. This collection is home to a multitude speeches, interviews and debates on the issues of the day. Important topics of civil rights, environment, crime, budget, legislation, and campaigns are addressed.
Click on link to these well-known figures to see audio segments directly related to them: Michele Bachmann Arne Carlson Keith Ellison Hubert Humphrey Amy Klobuchar Eugene McCarthy Walter Mondale Tim Pawlenty R.T. Rybak Jesse Ventura Paul Wellstone
December 13, 2000 - Republican Gil Gutknecht, who represents Minnesota's First Congressional District, says last night's decision means George W. Bush is the winner of the Presidential election. First District Congressman Gil Gutknecht. Senator Paul Wellstone says he will react to the decision later today.
December 14, 2000 - After the speeches last night by Vice-President Gore and President-elect Bush, Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone announced he is reconsidering his pledge to serve no more than two terms in the U-S Senate. Wellstone's second term ends in 2002. He joins us now. Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone.
December 15, 2000 - Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe is a DFLer from Erskine. Moe thinks that the surplus should be put aside for an endowment in case of something happens in the future. The current law is to give the surplus back to the tax payers.
December 18, 2000 - Walter Mondale, former U.S. vice president, reflects on the 2000 United States presidential election and what lies in store for the leaders of the country and the citizens of the U.S. George W. Bush was elected after nearly-tied vote. U.S. Supreme Court rules on Florida ballot court challenge; results have Al Gore losing election, George W. Bush winning.
December 28, 2000 - Morning Edition’s Cathy Wurzer interviews Neva Walker, who was elected to represent District 61B in South Minneapolis. In a weeks time, she will be sworn-in as the first African American state legislator. Walker is a DFLer who, like all new legislators, will have to transition into her new job.
January 3, 2001 - The 2001 legislative session got underway today (WEDNESDAY) with Democrats and Republicans sparring in the House. Meanwhile, in the Senate, Governor Ventura picked up his first party ally. Minnesota Public Radio's Laura McCallum reports...
January 3, 2001 - It's a busy day for politics in Washington, too. Minnesota's three new members of Congress will be sworn in today. Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Khoo is out in Washington for the ceremony. He's on the line now. Good morning, Michael.
January 3, 2001 - INTRO-- President-elect George W. Bush may have to fight hard to win approval for his choice of attorney general. Some civil rights groups plan to pressure Senate Democrats to vote against John Ashcroft for the position. Ashcroft is a Missouri conservative who lost re-election to the Senate in November. He's been criticized by democrats for his opposition to abortion and his position on some civil rights issues. Ashcroft is also a FRIEND of Minnesota DFL Senator Paul Wellstone. Senator Wellstone is on the line now.
January 3, 2001 - Morning Edition’s Cathy Wurzer talks with Democrat John Hottinger, the assistant majority leader of the senate, and Republican Tim Pawlenty, the majority leader of the house, about the start of Minnesota state legislature. Legislators are expected to tackle some sticky issues, like what to do with a projected three billion dollar surplus, along with campaign finance proposals, and the high price of prescription drugs.
January 4, 2001 -