December 14, 2004 - MPR’s Lorna Benson reports on a panel discussion at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey Institute designed to debunk misperceptions about immigrants. The panel of Twin Cities community leaders say they're discouraged by the attitudes of Minnesotans who are fed up with immigrants. A new study has found that many Minnesotans believe immigrants are a drain on public services and that they shun assimilation. The opinions were strongest among people living in the outer-ring suburbs.
December 15, 2004 - Some DFL state officials are proposing that the state offer health care benefits and no-interest loans to Minnesota National Guard members and reservists. They say the high number of overseas deployments is placing a tremendous burden on families. Governor Pawlenty has already proposed a package of military benefits, and the issue is likely to receive widespread support at the Capitol. Minnesota Public Radio's Laura McCallum reports...
December 16, 2004 - As part of the series A Mirror on Morality, MPR’s Lorna Benson talks with six parishioners from Macalester Plymouth United Church in St. Paul about the 2004 elections. Five are gay, the other a lesbian. Exit polls suggest that many Christians cast their ballots based on moral concerns, including strong opposition to gay marriage. The six discuss that "moral values" influenced their voting too - just in a different way.
December 17, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio's Bob Reha reports on North Dakota lawmakers arguing over money. While Minnesota lawmakers face a $700 million shortfall when they convene in St. Paul, in North Dakota, lawmakers won't fight over fixing a deficit, but rather what to do with a budget surplus.
December 22, 2004 - Governor Pawlenty today (WED) proposed a ten-year, seven-billion dollar transportation package. He says it will accelerate dozens of road and transit projects across the state. The plan wouldn't begin until 2007, and relies heavily on borrowed money. DFL leaders called it a credit card financing scheme. Minnesota Public Radio's Laura McCallum reports...
December 23, 2004 - There's something of a building boom going on with health care facilities around the Twin Cities. HealthPartners, Allina and HealthEast all recently announced major expansion plans. The groups say the construction will help improve care and patient satisfaction. But others worry it will increase health care costs. Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports...
December 27, 2004 - MPR’s Mark Zdechlik prepared this documentary, looking back at Minnesota's battleground role in the 2004 race for the White House. Includes numerous interviews and speeches.
December 31, 2004 - Governor Tim Pawlenty is looking to protect the supply of cheap Canadian prescription drugs. He's has written to Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin urging him to continue allowing re-importation of prescription drugs. Recent news reports suggest that Martin's health cabinet wants to block the current system. But Canadian pharmacies and others who support reimportation say they'll pursue other measures to keep the business going. Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports...
January 3, 2005 -
January 6, 2005 - < It's ATC. I'm Tom Crann for Minnesota Public Radio.