Editorial: In-fighting must be put aside for benefit of residents
Published 12:00 am Tuesday, July 20, 2004
The fighting between the DFL, GOP and Pawlenty is getting old. They have to find a way to put an end to the bickering to make headway which will benefit Minnesota communities and their residents.
The latest round involves reaching a solution to a drafting error which would cut aid to Minneapolis and St. Paul by $15 million. They are also seeking to increase spending for public defenders.
DFL Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson says Pawlenty has the executive power to dispense local aids based on legislative intent and accused Pawlenty of holding state communities hostage as political leverage.
We think this trio is posturing at the detriment of Minnesota residents. Whatever happened to negotiating a win-win for the people?
Recognizing we all may disagree with what specifically is best for the majority of residents, this fighting between the top legislative leaders smacks more of egos.
It’s time to put aside these personal feelings &045; and that’s what it comes down to in the end &045; and find the best possible solution for all of us.
Sometimes, the perfect solution on a issue eludes our best efforts, but to do nothing is unacceptable. House Speaker Steve Sviggum, Johnson and Pawlenty need to find a reasonable compromise and get something done.