State of Minnesota Archives: on Government Reform
Erin Murphy:
Voted NO on photo ID for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome: Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011
and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; Rep. Erin Murphy voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4, 2012; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 20, 2012
Heather Johnson:
Term limits for Congress, local officials, and judges
- I advocate term limits on Congress and limitations and elections for local, state, and federal judges including the Supreme Court.
- I advocate transparency and regular independent audits of government practices as well as the Federal
Reserve, answerable to the people, by the people, and for the people of these United States.
- I advocate the acknowledgement that juries do not have to uphold legislation in situations where they feel there just reason to ignore the law.
Source: 2014 Minnesota Senate campaign website, "Platform"
Jul 31, 2014
Jason Lewis:
Abolish FISA court which violates civil liberties
I voted against the FISA reauthorization while in Congress. I pushed for much-needed reforms to FISA, but the reforms didn't command support of the majority of the House, despite the much-publicized civil liberties abuses. I could not in good
conscience support the threats to privacy posed by a blanket extension of FISA surveillance without meaningful reforms. Now I think we are beyond the point of reforms. Simply put, it's time to stand up for civil liberties and abolish the secret court.
Source: 2020 Minnesota Senate campaign website LewisForMN.com
Jul 8, 2020
Jesse Ventura:
Close soft money loophole, give candidates public money
My Administration's goals for campaign finance reform are:- Closing the soft money loophole.
- Giving candidates the public money when they need it.
- Providing better citizen access to campaign finance information on the web.
- I believe that
political parties & party caucuses should agree to limit their independent
- expenditures as a condition of receiving public money, and I encourage the Minnesota
- Legislature to pass a bill that will close this gaping loophole in Minnesota's law.
Source: 2001 State of the State Address to Minnesota Legislature
Jan 4, 2001
Jesse Ventura:
Give every new program a sunset clause to force evaluation
- We must start evaluating programs for results.
- We can't ever hesitate to reform or eliminate programs if they aren't producing results.
-
Every new program should automatically have a "sunset" clause that forces proper evaluation.
- We must move decisions to the level closest to the people.no unfunded mandates from one unit of government to the next.
Source: 1999 State of the State Address to Minnesota Legislature
Mar 2, 1999
Jim Abeler:
Require photo ID to vote
Jim Abeler voted Yea in a Conference Report Vote on HF 2738.Legislative title:Requires Photo Identification to Vote
Legislative summary: Vote to adopt a conference report that submits a constitutional amendment to the
voters that requires voters to present photo identification prior to voting.Highlights:
- Requires voters voting in person to present valid government-issued photo identification in order to receive a ballot.
- Requires the state to issue photo
ID at no charge to eligible voters who do not have valid government-issued photo ID
-
Requires that a voter not capable of producing government-issued photo identification must be able to cast a provisional ballot
- Requires the amendment be submitted to the voters for approval at the 2012 general election.
Source: Minnesota House voting records (Votesmart synopses)
Apr 3, 2012
Jim Abeler:
Photo ID for voting
Question topic: People should be able to vote without photo identification.
Abeler: Strongly Disagree
Source: Faith2Action iVoterGuide on 2014 Minnesota Senate race
Jul 2, 2014
Jim Abeler:
Require photo ID for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome: Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011
and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; Rep. Jim Abeler voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4, 2012; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 20, 2012
Jim Abeler:
Keep restrictions on liquor licenses near state facilities
Legislative Summary of SF2696:Clarifying the prohibition on the issuance of intoxicating liquor licenses in proximity to certain state institutions.Summary by OnTheIssues: Allow liquor licenses near county jails, but
disallow liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a state hospital, training school, reformatory, prison, or other institution under the supervision or control of the commissioner of human services or the commissioner of corrections.
Governor's Veto
Message: There are many other facilities beyond hospitals, training schools, reformatories and prisons that are under the supervision or control of the Commissioners of Human Services or Corrections. It would surprise me if the Legislature
intended to allow liquor sales near all such facilities. Yet, the bill seems to do just that."
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/13/04; Rep. Abeler noted NO; Passed Senate 57-3-7 on May/14/04; Vetoed on May/29/04.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: SF2696
May 13, 2004
Jim Abeler:
Shift approval of local rules from Governor to Legislature
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; Rep. Abeler voted YES; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 16, 2003
Jim Newberger:
No need to make voter registration easier
Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Make voter registration easier"?
A: Oppose.
Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Minnesota Senate candidate
Mar 15, 2018
Jim Newberger:
Opposes regulation of political contributions
Campaign Finance: Require political ads & PACs to disclose their largest funders? Oppose decisions like Citizens United, which allows unlimited political donations from corporations & unions?Amy Klobuchar: Yes to both. Cosponsored DISCLOSE Act,
requiring full disclosure of advocacy groups' campaign contributions. Cosponsored amendment to overturn democracy-threatening decision.
Jim Newberger: Unknown on ads. No to limiting political donations. Opposes regulation of political contributions.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Minnesota Senate race
Nov 1, 2018
Karin Housley:
Switch from partisan way of governing back to compromise
What's the place of bipartisanship today in national politics? "It's missing. I think it's missing and that's why a lot of people are frustrated with our politicians. Because they dig their heels in and somewhere along the way compromise got to be a
bad word. I'm still going to stick to my core principals and values, but it doesn't mean I'm not going to work with the other side to listen to theirs and find something in the middle. I think the public is very frustrated with their politicians."
Source: Hutchinson Leader on 2017-8 Minnesota special election
Feb 18, 2018
Karin Housley:
Supports Citizens United: let corporations participate
On big money in politics: "I'd rather be out talking with communities," Housley said. "I wish campaigns didn't have to cost so much, but they do. I'm in support of a free market when it comes to campaigns."She noted while sometimes it's necessary
to spend large sums to campaign in population-thin areas like greater Minnesota, the high influx of donor and political action committee dollars complicates races.
Often, Housley said, a candidate is endorsed by a group or message they don't support
themselves and this also plays out with how outside money--or money funding political campaigns or candidates by groups outside the constituency--is handled in national elections.
Housley said she is in support of the
2010 Supreme Court ruling granting corporations personhood, or similar rights and privileges as human beings--Citizens United v. FEC. "I would be in support of the way it is right now," she said.
Source: Brainerd Dispatch: 2017-8 Minnesota Special Senate Election
Jul 31, 2018
Karin Housley:
Supports free market for campaigns, and Citizen United
Campaign Finance: 1. Require political ads to disclose their largest funders? 2. Support Citizens United decision, allowing unlimited political donations from corporations & unions?Smith: 1. Yes. Sponsored DISCLOSE Act. 2. Reverse by Constitutional
Amendment.
Housley: 1. Unclear. Said we need "adequate regulations" to ensure candidates raise funds ethically & transparently but supports "free market" for campaigns. 2. Yes. Supports Citizen United: "I would be in support of the way it is right now.
Source: 2017-2018 Minnesota special election CampusElect.org Guide
Nov 1, 2018
Kurt Bills:
Require photo ID for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome: Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011
and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; Rep. Kurt Bills voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4, 2012; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 20, 2012
Lori Swanson:
Fight to make campaign financing fairer & all-inclusive
We should overturn Citizens United. Corporate spending on elections drowns out the voices of regular people. As AG, Lori filed briefs in opposition to the Citizens United decision in the U.S. Supreme Court, and she supports efforts to encourage
a fairer, more inclusive political process. She supports strengthening Minnesota campaign finance laws to require better transparency on election spending and supports efforts to encourage small donor participation in the election process.
Source: 2018 Minnesota governor campaign website LoriSwanson.com
Jul 4, 2018
Mark Dayton:
No PAC money, no soft money
I agree that the exposing of soft money contributions has gravely threatened the quality of our political environment. For my part I have promised not to take any Political Action Committee (PAC) funds, nor will I accept any soft money from the
Democratic National Committee. I support most of the provisions of the McCain-Feingold legislation and I support campaign contribution limits and complete disclosure of all amounts and sources of every campaign contribution.
I would also propose forming a bi-partisan commission that includes broad-based citizen organizations and whose sole mandate would be to design a campaign financing system that best preserves and enhances democracy and advances interests of all
American citizens. I believe that Congress should accept the report of this public Commission and vote on the resulting legislation without changes or amendments. This will be the only way we will get comprehensive campaign finance reform.
Source: Minnesota Newspaper Association Election Questionnaire
Jul 2, 2000
Mark Dayton:
Make even-years "The Unsession", to eliminate laws & rules
Back in 1998, when I first ran for Governor, a campaign that most people have forgotten and I would like to, there was a TV commercial for the soft-drink 7-Up. Contrasting itself to Coke & Pepsi, it proudly called itself the "un-cola."In my campaign,
I proposed making an even-year legislative session "The Unsession." Except for responding to a fiscal or other emergency and passing a bonding bill, the session would be devoted to eliminating unnecessary or redundant laws, rules, and regulations;
reducing the verbiage in those that remain; shortening the timelines for developing and implementing them; and undoing anything else, which makes government nearly impossible to understand, operate, or support.
I suggest making next year's legislative
session the first "Unsession." After this session is concluded, I will ask my agency heads and legislative staff to begin making lists, and working with any legislators, other public officials, and citizens, who wish to spearhead these reforms.
Source: 2013 State of the State speech to Minnesota Legislature
Feb 6, 2013
Mark Dayton:
Vetoed photo ID requirement for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome:
Equivalent bill vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011 and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Apr 4, 2011
Matt Dean:
Constitutional amendment requiring photo ID for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome: Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011
and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; Rep. Matt Dean co-sponsored bill on March 7 and then voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 7, 2012
Michelle Benson:
Outlaw abusive practices like ballot harvesting
Easy to Vote. Hard to Cheat. Ensuring the integrity of our elections through common-sense approaches should not be controversial.
Minnesota needs to outlaw abusive practices like ballot harvesting and catch up to the rest of the country when it comes to voter verification.
Source: 2022 Minnesota Governor campaign website Michelle4MN.com
Dec 23, 2021
Michelle Benson:
The more we watch the polls, the less they cheat
HUGH HEWITT, DEBATE MODERATOR: In your opinion, did President Biden win the constitutional majority of the electoral college?
DR. SCOTT JENSEN: I can`t know what I don`t know. And I think we have to take that attitude towards 2020.
MAYOR MIKE MURPHY: I do believe there was voter fraud at a massive scale across this country.
STATE SEN. PAUL GAZELKA: I don`t think the election was fair, but I do think we have the results that we have. The electoral college is the way that we determine the election.
STATE SEN. MICHELLE BENSON: The more we watch, the less they cheat.
Source: MSNBC on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial debate
Sep 21, 2021
Michelle Benson:
Make it easy to vote and hard to cheat
All five Republican gubernatorial hopefuls were asked the same first question during the debate: "In your opinion, did President Biden win a constitutional majority in the electoral college?" Not a single candidate expressed confidence in the
long-certified results. Benson initially did not answer Hewitt's question directly, saying only that "our job" is "to make it easy to vote and hard to cheat," later adding: "The more we watch, the less we cheat."
Asked specifically in a follow-up if Biden won, she replied: "He was certified by Congress as having won the electoral college."
Benson also won re-election in 2020 and has not questioned the results. None of the candidates specifically explained which states' results they believe weren't valid.
Source: Bring Me the News blog on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial race
Dec 16, 2021
Michelle Fischbach:
Shift approval of local rules from Governor to Legislature
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Sen. Michelle Fischbach sponsored HF624 and voted YES; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 16, 2003
Mike Murphy:
Update and modernize voter registration systems
The 2020 election has highlighted the inaccuracies in our voting system. Voter integrity is vital to our elections, and to the Democratic process. Minnesotans deserve to know that our elections are free and fair. As Governor I will fight to protect
the ballot box, and make that your vote matters.- Update and modernize voter registration systems
- Purging voter lists and keep them up-to-date
-
Require voter-verifiable paper ballots or records for every vote cast
- Replace outdated voting machines
- Require minimum cybersecurity standards for our election infrastructure
- Perform mandatory pre and post-election accuracy testing on all
voting machines
- Conduct robust post-election audits
- Common-sense voter Identification that doesn't disenfranchise legal voters
- Strengthen same-day voter registration policies
Source: 2022 Minnesota governor campaign website MikeMurphyForMN.com
Feb 16, 2021
Mike Murphy:
Voter fraud on a massive scale in 2020
All five Republican gubernatorial hopefuls were asked the same first question during the debate: "In your opinion, did President Biden win a constitutional majority in the electoral college?" Not a single candidate expressed confidence in the
long-certified results. Murphy, the mayor of Lexington, said he believes there was voter fraud on a "massive scale" across the country in 2020, though acknowledged he can't "pinpoint the evidence' because he's not "privy to the scheme."
He also cited a debunked Project Veritas video about the DFL primary in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District.
None of the candidates specifically explained which states' results they believe weren't valid.
Source: Bring Me the News blog on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial race
Dec 16, 2021
Mike Murphy:
Voter fraud at massive scale in 2020 across the country
HUGH HEWITT, DEBATE MODERATOR: In your opinion, did President Biden win the constitutional majority of the electoral college?
DR. SCOTT JENSEN: I can`t know what I don`t know. And I think we have to take that attitude towards 2020.
MAYOR MIKE MURPHY: I do believe there was voter fraud at a massive scale across this country.
STATE SEN. PAUL GAZELKA: I don`t think the election was fair, but I do think we have the results that we have. The electoral college is the way that we determine the election.
STATE SEN. MICHELLE BENSON: The more we watch, the less they cheat.
Source: MSNBC on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial debate
Sep 21, 2021
Norm Coleman:
Frivolous lawsuits raise consumer prices
[On eliminating frivolous lawsuits] Coleman said he supported what he called a common sense approach. Coleman made the point that unnecessary lawsuits are a major expense for business.
"The cost of litigation I think doubles the price of a football helmets, it adds about $500 to the price of a car and about $3,000 for a pacemaker, " said Coleman.
Source: Minnesota Public Radio, Senatorial debates
Oct 21, 2002
Paul Gazelka:
2020 election not fair; need election reforms
All five Republican gubernatorial hopefuls were asked the same first question during the debate: "In your opinion, did President Biden win a constitutional majority in the electoral college?"
Not a single candidate expressed confidence in the long-certified results. Paul Gazelka said, "I don't think the election was fair, but I do think we have the results that we have and the electoral college is the way that we determine the election,"
said the former Senate majority leader, who won re-election himself in 2020 but has not questioned the results. Gazelka added he is "not a big fan of how it all played out" and called for election reforms.
None of the candidates specifically explained which states' results they believe weren't valid.
Source: Bring Me the News blog on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial race
Dec 16, 2021
Paula Overby:
Make voter registration easier
Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Make voter registration easier"?
A: Support--I support that. Diversity of opinion is our strength. Polarization is our undoing.
Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Minnesota Senate candidate
May 13, 2018
Rebecca Otto:
Loosen restrictions on liquor licenses near state facilities
Legislative Summary of SF2696:Clarifying the prohibition on the issuance of intoxicating liquor licenses in proximity to certain state institutions.Summary by OnTheIssues: Allow liquor licenses near county jails, but
disallow liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a state hospital, training school, reformatory, prison, or other institution under the supervision or control of the commissioner of human services or the commissioner of corrections.
Governor's Veto
Message: There are many other facilities beyond hospitals, training schools, reformatories and prisons that are under the supervision or control of the Commissioners of Human Services or Corrections. It would surprise me if the Legislature
intended to allow liquor sales near all such facilities. Yet, the bill seems to do just that."
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on 5/13/04; Rep. Otto voted YES; Passed Senate 57-3-7 on 5/14/04; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on 5/29/04.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: SF2696
May 13, 2004
Rebecca Otto:
Shift approval of local rules from Governor to Legislature
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; Rep. Otto voted YES; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 16, 2003
Scott Jensen:
Dead people voted in 2020; it's time for election integrity
All five Republican gubernatorial hopefuls were asked the same first question during the debate: "In your opinion, did President Biden win a constitutional majority in the electoral college?" Not a single candidate expressed confidence in the
long-certified results. Jensen said, "I can't know what I don't know. And I think we have to take that attitude toward 2020," he said, mentioning a Republican-led audit in Maricopa County that found zero discrepancies.
Jensen also said there have been "enough shenanigans," adding it's time to address "election integrity." He also said he believes dead people voted.
None of the candidates specifically explained which states' results they believe weren't valid.
Source: Bring Me the News blog on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial race
Dec 16, 2021
Scott Jensen:
Follow Trump in reducing rules and regulations
Some of his other campaign planks include no mask mandate for school kids, no vaccine passports, no vaccine mandate in the private sector or emergency lockdowns that don't work."We need to follow President [Donald] Trump's model,"
Jensen said. "His legacy will be policy. He reduced rules and regulations and put good judges in place. He went after NATO and NAFTA and trail-blazed issues. That's what we'll do. But we'll do something different and engage groups that weren't before."
Source: New Ulm Journal on 2022 Minnesota Gubernatorial race
Sep 21, 2021
Tim Pawlenty:
Proposed 2-term limit for governor & 12 years for Congress
Pawlenty made good on his promise to pursue term limits, though to no avail. His proposal would have imposed 10-year limits on the Legislature, 12-year limits on Congress, & a 2-term limit on governors. He argued that by imposing such limits, "there woul
be less focus on re-election and more on policy." The bill went to a House subcommittee on election law, where it failed to pass with a 5-5 vote. Had it passed the Legislature, the proposal would have gone to popular vote in the 1996 general election.
Source: Sam`s Club Republican, p.15, Minnesota Voting Records HF2186
May 10, 2010
Tim Pawlenty:
Keep restrictions on liquor licenses near state facilities
Legislative Summary of SF2696:Clarifying the prohibition on the issuance of intoxicating liquor licenses in proximity to certain state institutions.Summary by OnTheIssues: Allow liquor licenses near county jails, but
disallow liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a state hospital, training school, reformatory, prison, or other institution under the supervision or control of the commissioner of human services or the commissioner of corrections.
Governor's Veto
Message: There are many other facilities beyond hospitals, training schools, reformatories and prisons that are under the supervision or control of the Commissioners of Human Services or Corrections. It would surprise me if the Legislature
intended to allow liquor sales near all such facilities. Yet, the bill seems to do just that."
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/13/04; Passed Senate 57-3-7 on May/14/04; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/29/04.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: SF2696
May 29, 2004
Tim Pawlenty:
Keep approval of local rules with Governor, not Legislatur
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 27, 2003
Tim Walz:
Limit corporate campaign donations, and disclose all
Q: Require political ads to disclose their largest funders?Jeff Johnson (R): Unknown.
Tim Walz (D): Yes. Co-sponsored 2012 DISCLOSE Act, requiring full disclosure of independent campaign expenditures.
Q: Support Citizens United decision,
allowing unlimited political donations from corporations & unions?
Johnson: Unknown.
Walz: No. Disagrees with Supreme Court decision that lifts limits on corporations' & unions' spending in US elections.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Minnesota Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
Tim Walz:
Remove barriers to voting
Q: Voting Rights: Support stricter voting rules such as voter ID requirements, even if they prevent some people from voting?Jeff Johnson (R): Yes. Supports requiring voters to show photo ID, although Minnesotans rejected that idea in a 2012 vote.
Ti
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Minnesota Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
Tina Liebling:
Require disclosure of state legislature perks
We must promote high ethical standards and transparency for all who have the honor to serve the public.Our laws permit public officials to take trips--junkets--that are paid for by foundations or other organizations (but not by lobbyists). These
organizations include ALEC, an organization of large corporations that writes corporate-friendly legislation for legislators (almost always Republicans) to introduce in their states. My amendment to require disclosure of these trips by members of the
Minnesota House was voted down by Republicans.
Not all sponsored trips are bad, but the recipient should be required to disclose these perks to the public. We must make sure that the wealthy and well connected play by the same rules as everyone else.
Public money should be invested only where the public--not billionaire owners or another special interest group--will reap the benefits commensurate with the investment. This is why I voted "no" on the Vikings and Twins stadium deals.
Source: 2018 Minnesota governor campaign website TinaLiebling.com
May 2, 2017
Tina Liebling:
Voted NO on photo ID for voting
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID] ; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome: Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4, 2011
and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; Rep. Tina Liebling voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4, 2012; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 20, 2012
Tina Smith:
Reverse Citizens United by Constitutional Amendment
Campaign Finance: 1. Require political ads to disclose their largest funders? 2. Support Citizens United decision, allowing unlimited political donations from corporations & unions?Smith: 1. Yes. In 2018, cosponsored DISCLOSE Act, requiring
organizations spending more than $10,000 in an election cycle to disclose donors' names. 2. Reverse Citizens United by Constitutional Amendment.
Housley: Supports Citizen United: "I would be in support of the way it is right now."
Source: 2017-2018 Minnesota special election CampusElect.org Guide
Nov 1, 2018
Tina Smith:
Restore voting rights to ex-felons
Q: Restore voting rights after release from prison?Jason Lewis: Believes voting rights should be restored to felons once they have completed parole. Says each state should decide on laws.
Tina Smith: Co-sponsored bill to restore Voting Rights Act enacted to prevent discriminatory changes to state voting laws and procedures.
Source: CampusElect on 2020 Minnesota Senate race
Oct 10, 2020
Tom Emmer:
Limit PAC contributions, but all others ok
Q: Do you support limiting the number of terms for Minnesota governors, state senators and representatives? A: No.
Q: Do you support limiting the following types of contributions to state legislative candidates... Individual?
A: No.
Q: PAC?
A: Yes.
Q: Corporate?
A: No.
Q: Political Parties?
A: No.
Q: Do you support requiring disclosure of campaign finance information?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you support imposing spending limits on state-level political campaigns?
A: Yes.
Source: Minnesota Congressional 2008 Political Courage Test
Nov 1, 2008
Brad Finstad:
Don't saddle farmers with burdensome regulations
The First District is blessed with a robust agricultural economy, as well as a strong workforce, and outstanding schools and universities. As a member of both the Agriculture Committee and the Education and Labor Committee, I will work to make sure
we are serving the needs of our farmers, rather than saddling them with burdensome regulations; that our workforce is productive and competitive; and that every student--from preschool to college--has the opportunity and access to a good education.
Source: Southern Minnesota News on 2022 House incumbent MN-1 race
Oct 2, 2022
Brad Finstad:
Loosen restrictions on liquor licenses near state facilities
Legislative summary of SF2696: Clarifying the prohibition on the issuance of intoxicating liquor licenses in proximity to certain state institutions.Summary by OnTheIssues: Allow liquor licenses near county jails, but
disallow liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a state hospital, training school, reformatory, prison, or other institution under the supervision or control of the commissioner of human services or the commissioner of corrections.
Governor's Veto
Message: There are many other facilities beyond hospitals, training schools, reformatories and prisons that are under the supervision or control of the Commissioners of Human Services or Corrections. It would surprise me if the Legislature
intended to allow liquor sales near all such facilities. Yet, the bill seems to do just that."
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/13/04; State Rep. Finstad voted YES; Passed Senate 57-3-7 on May/14/04; Vetoed on May/29/04.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: SF2696
May 13, 2004
Brad Finstad:
Shift approval of local rules from Governor to Legislature
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; State Rep. Brad Finstad voted YES; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 16, 2003
Brad Finstad:
Keep restrictions on liquor licenses near state facilities
Legislative summary of SF2696: Clarifying the prohibition on the issuance of intoxicating liquor licenses in proximity to certain state institutions.Summary by OnTheIssues: Allow liquor licenses near county jails, but
disallow liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a state hospital, training school, reformatory, prison, or other institution under the supervision or control of the commissioner of human services or the commissioner of corrections.
Governor's Veto
Message: There are many other facilities beyond hospitals, training schools, reformatories and prisons that are under the supervision or control of the Commissioners of Human Services or Corrections. It would surprise me if the Legislature
intended to allow liquor sales near all such facilities. Yet, the bill seems to do just that."
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/13/04; State Rep. Finstad voted NO; Passed Senate 57-3-7 on May/14/04; Vetoed on May/29/04.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: SF2696
May 13, 2004
Brad Finstad:
Shift approval of local rules from Governor to Legislature
Legislative Summary of House File 624: Local government impact notes provided for state agency rule proposals, and legislative approval required for specified rulemaking.Governor's Veto Message:
The bill essentially shifts authority for conducting rulemaking from the executive branch to the legislative branch. Under current law, the legislature has granted the Governor's office final approval authority on all rulemakings.
This is sound policy as it provides accountability in a way that does not paralyze either branch of government. House File 624 would impose that responsibility on the already over-stressed legislative process.
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 124-8-2 on May/16/03; State Rep. Brad Finstad voted YES; Passed Senate 60-0-7 on May/16/03; Vetoed by Gov. Pawlenty on May/27/03.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF624
May 16, 2003
Tim Walz:
State investments come back to you tenfold over
Walz and GOP challenger Scott Jensen [held] their only televised debate. Walz stressed that the return on state investments in things like education, roads & health care "comes back to you tenfold over.""You get a choice here of a vision of Minnesota,
one that questions our elections, one that tells women they can't make their choices, one that defunds our public schools or you get an opportunity that brought so many of us to Minnesota. An opportunity for a state that is inclusive," Walz said.
Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune on 2022 Minnesota Governor race
Oct 18, 2022
Michelle Benson:
Require photo ID to vote
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID]; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome:Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4,
2011 and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; State Sen. Michelle Benson co-authored and voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 7, 2012
Paul Gazelka:
Require photo ID to vote
Legislative Summary: Voters required to present photographic identification. An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If adopted, it would read [for the relevant part]:All voters must be subject to identical
standards of eligibility verification before voting and the state must make photographic identification available to eligible voters at no cost to them. The following persons shall not be permitted to vote at any election: A person not meeting the above
requirements [for photo ID]; a person who has been convicted of a felony, unless restored to civil rights; a person under guardianship, or a person who is not mentally competent.
Legislative Outcome:Vetoed by Gov. Dayton on April 4,
2011 and hence reintroduced as constitutional ballot initiative; passed House 72-62 on March 20, 2012; State Sen. Paul Gazelka voted YES; passed Senate 35-29 on April 4; defeated 54%-46% by voters as "Amendment 2" on Nov 6, 2012.
Source: Minnesota legislative voting records: HF 2738
Mar 7, 2012
Tim Walz:
Restore voting rights for formerly incarcerated people
Gov. Walz signed into law the largest expansion of voting rights in Minnesota in the last half century, restoring voting rights for over 55,000 formerly incarcerated people in Minnesota, establishing automatic voter registration, creating a permanent
absentee voting status, and pre-registering 16- and 17-year-olds to vote. Gov.Walz also signed the Minnesota Voting Rights Act into law--prohibiting standards that would deny or limit any citizen's right to vote based on their race, color, or language.
Source: 2022 Minnesota Governor campaign website mn.gov/Governor
Aug 6, 2024
Steve Carlson:
Voter quotas resulted in unrepresentative officials
MNDFL elections have always been limited by quotas rigging nominations and misuse of voter information, and expansive violations of election laws and principles. Now with voting machines like Dominion Voting our elections are dangerously flawed.
Voter quotas resulted in highly unrepresentative officials especially in federal and constitutional offices. We must bring elections back to safety and fairness
Source: Ballotpedia Candidate Connection: 2024 Minnesota Senate race
Nov 1, 2022
Mike McFadden:
Effective but limited government, stressing "limited"
He laid out few hard and fast policy positions. Instead, he said he repeatedly that he will concentrate on a message of "effective but limited government" stressing the later part of that equation. "We've done a really good job of talking about the
limited government as Republicans. We now need to focus on the effective piece. Government needs to work better," said McFadden, who has a resume that is long on business credentials and short on political ones.
Asked how limited government should be--drowned in bathtub? Slightly smaller than current? Would he close federal departments? -- McFadden demurred, "my focus is
going to be on making things more effective."
"Politics is the art of the possible not the art of the pure," he said. "And I think what's happened in Washington is we've had too much purity on both ends of the spectrum."
Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune on 2014 Minnesota Senate race
Oct 28, 2013
Royce White:
We need term limits & the filibuster
Q: What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?A: American Sovereignty
Q: What are your thoughts on term limits?
A: We need term limits.
Q: Do you believe that it's beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics?
A: Not today it isn't.
Q: What do you think of the filibuster?
A: Useful. Underused!
Source: Ballotpedia Candidate Connection: 2024 Minnesota Senate race
Aug 8, 2024
Peggy Flanagan:
Campaign is powered by people, not corporate checks
Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan announced today that she will not be taking corporate donations in her bid for the U.S. Senate. Starting her run for Senate early, Flanagan has made it clear that she will be rejecting money from powerful corporate political
action committees in order to stand strong for the people of Minnesota."Taking corporate money is a choice, and it's an easy choice for me: I'm not taking money from corporations, and I never will," said Lt. Governor
Flanagan. "I'm running a grassroots campaign powered by people, not corporate checks. I can't stand strong for Minnesotans in Washington if I'm beholden to the billionaires that rigged our government in the first place."
Since launching
her campaign, Flanagan has hosted 12 Kitchen Table Conversations around the state, the majority in red districts in greater Minnesota, to listen to what Minnesotans have to say.
Source: Native News on 2026 Minnesota Senate race
Apr 14, 2025
Royce White:
Go to a single-day, paper ballot, personal ID requirement
I share a sense of dire concern over the general security of our elections, especially considering the constant advancements in technology and the stakes of our election results.
I will support going to a single-day, paper ballot, and personal identification requirement for our elections. I also will support a national holiday to encourage and support voter participation and security.
Source: 2026 Minnesota Senate campaign website RoyceWhite.US
Apr 27, 2025
Jeff Johnson 2018:
Government needs to give the power back to the people
Our state desperately needs a fundamental change in the size, scope, and philosophy of government. This means taking power away from government and giving it back to the people. We must create a mindset in government that it is a
servant of the people, not the other way around. I will push for term limits, initiate a top-to-bottom audit of the programs Minnesota taxpayers fund and veto any omnibus bill that does not adhere to the single-subject rule.
Source: 2018 Minnesota JohnsonForGovernor.org campaign website
Sep 1, 2018
Jeff Johnson 2018:
People make better decisions on spending than government
I believe that government can only exercise authority granted to it in the Constitution. I believe that people make better decisions about how to spend the money they earn than government. I support school choice and the empowerment
of parents to control the education of their children. I believe the right to keep and bear arms for personal protection is a fundamental individual right. I am pro-life. My Christian faith guides every decision I make.
Source: 2018 Minnesota JohnsonForGovernor.org campaign website
Sep 1, 2018
Jeff Johnson 2018:
Require voters to show photo ID
Q: Voting Rights: Support stricter voting rules such as voter ID requirements, even if they prevent some people from voting?Jeff Johnson (R): Yes. Supports requiring voters to show photo ID, although Minnesotans rejected that idea in a 2012 vote.
Tim Walz (D): No. Strengthen & reauthorize Voting Rights Act. Remove barriers to voting.
Source: CampusElect.org 2018: Minnesota legislative voting records
Oct 9, 2018
Angie Craig:
Require carbon monoxide detectors in every hotel room
U.S. Reps. Angie Craig and Mike Levin reintroduced legislation that would require carbon monoxide detectors to be installed in every hotel and short-term rental room in the country."We have the tools to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and save
lives--and we should be using them," Craig said. The bill specifies that compliant carbon monoxide alarms must be installed "in each sleeping or dwelling unit within each place of public accommodation affecting commerce."
Source: HotelDive.com, "CO alarm", on 2026 Minnesota Senate race
Jun 6, 2025
Lisa Demuth:
End the culture of fraud and corruption in state government
I will end the culture of fraud and corruption in state government and demand accountability from state workers responsible for managing the state programs that have been abused by fraudsters. I will work with the legislature to pass a non-partisan
Office of Inspector General who will be empowered to root out fraud in all parts of government, and be a partner for my administration in stopping fraud before it starts instead of waiting until the fraudsters have walked out the door with your money.
Source: 2026 Minnesota Gubernatorial campaign website LisaForMN.com
Dec 28, 2025
Lisa Demuth:
Will order cutting permitting timelines by at least 25%
As Governor I will work to make Minnesota a magnet for business investment and job creation in all corners of the state. I will issue an executive order on day one of my administration to cut permitting timelines by at least
25% and work with the legislature to pass meaningful permitting reform. Minnesota can return to its place as a top destination for business investment, but only if we are no longer an outlier in business tax rates, mandates, and other business measures.
Source: 2026 Minnesota Gubernatorial campaign website LisaForMN.com
Dec 28, 2025
Mike Lindell:
Rid us of machines used to steal elections
Secure Our Elections: Securing our elections from fraud by
ridding us of the machines which have been used to steal elections.
Source: 2026 Minnesota Governor campaign website MikeLindellGov.com
Dec 24, 2025
Royce White:
Supports single-day; paper ballot; personal ID requirement
I share a sense of dire concern over the general security of our elections, especially considering the constant advancements in technology and the stakes of our election results.
I will support going to a single-day, paper ballot, and personal identification requirement for our elections. I also will support a national holiday to encourage and support voter participation and security.
Source: 2026 Minnesota Senate campaign website RoyceWhite.us
Jul 23, 2025
Page last updated: Feb 07, 2026