Collection

Arne Carlson: A Profile

Arne Helge Carlson is an American Republican politician, who served as 37th Governor of Minnesota. His governorship was noted for creating a state surplus, elementary and secondary education funding, and support of the University of Minnesota. This collection presents archival interviews, speeches and commentary of Carlson.

Born September 24th, 1934, in New York City, Carlson moved to Minnesota where he served on the Minneapolis City Council from 1965 to 1967, member of Minnesota House of Representatives from 1971 to 1979, and Minnesota State Auditor from 1979 to 1991. While coming in second during Republican primary in Governor’s race in 1990, a scandal forced out Republican candidate Jon Grunseth, which led to Carlson becoming a “write-in” candidate and winning election over DFL candidate, Rudy Perpich.

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31 Collection Items


  • 2010 gubernatorial race tame compared to chaotic 1990 contest

    With the close of the 2010 gubernatorial race, MPR’s Curtis Gilbert revisits the memorable 1990 Minnesota governor’s race, which involved screaming headlines, sex scandals, an 11th hour withdrawal -- and a surprise upset victory.

    Nov. 5, 20108 min
  • Former governors Arne Carlson and Wendell Anderson at the State Fair

    On this special Midday program at the Minnesota State Fair, former Minnesota governors Arne Carlson, a Republican, and Wendell Anderson, a DFLer, reflect on current events and politics past and future.

    Aug. 23, 2007
  • MPR Day at the Fair: Former governors Anderson, Quie, and Carlson talk politics

    As part of MPR Day at the Fair, former governors Wendell Anderson, Al Quie, and Arne Carlson talk politics at the Minnesota State Fair.

    Sep. 1, 2006
  • Arne Carlson's causes - Civility in politics and responsibility in public finance

    While out of public office for almost 7 years, former Governor Arne Carlson still hasn't stopped thinking about how to improve government. Carlson has taken up the cause of civility in politics and responsibility in public finance and talks with MPR’s Gary Eichten about his efforts.

    Dec. 2, 200553 min
  • Arne Carlson on the Twins and the ballpark

    On this Midday, Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson talks about charges his administration was improperly involved in the threat to move the Twins and gain a new ballpark. Program also includes a talk with Twins President Jerry Bell.

    Mar. 30, 200048 min
  • A look back at Arne Carlson's gubernatorial tenure

    As Governor-elect Jesse Ventura’s administration prepares to begin, MPR's Mike Mulcahy has a look back at the Arne Carlson’s years as Minnesota governor. Carlson will be remembered for the record number of bills he vetoed, his love of the Gophers' basketball team, and for his flamboyant ex-wife…but the Carlson legacy will be also be marked by the record budget surpluses that piled up during his watch.

    Dec. 28, 1998
  • Governor Carlson's new spending plan includes social and environmental proposals

    MPR’s Karen Louise Boothe reports that Governor Arne Carlson has presented a plan to spend another $51 million on three "quality of life" initiatives. the proposal calls for aid for homeless children, more funding for the arts, and money to clean up and maintain Minnesota lakes.

    Dec. 1, 1998
  • Arne Carlson speech on media accountibilty

    On this Midday, a broadcast of Governor Arne Carlson speaking on media accountability, and a need for self-examination of profession. Carlson’s speech was given at the Minnesota Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

    Apr. 20, 199853 min
  • State-of-the-State: Arne Carlson's speeches through the years

    MPR’s Mary Stucky matches up the content of the State-of-the-State addresses through Governor Arne Carlson’s tenure. His speeches over the years reflect the changing fortunes of the state and ups and downs in Carlson’s relationship with state lawmakers.

    Feb. 2, 1998
  • Governor Carlson says Twins are on their way out

    MPR’s Martin Kaste reports that in the aftermath of the Minnesota lawmakers' vote to defeat the Twins stadium bill (voting 84 to 47 against the package), Governor Arne Carlson has offered a eulogy of sorts, seeing it as the "last, best hope" to keep the baseball team in Minnesota.

    Nov. 14, 19974 min