Kiffmeyer takes flak . . . pushes honey butter

The Strib ran a story yesterday letting us know that Secretary of State Kiffmeyer takes flak, pushes on. Now, to some Kiffmeyer is the Katherine Harris of the North while most people just don't really notice exactly what it is that the office of the Secretary of State is for.

The Secretary of State is one of those offices that no one really pays attention to until something goes wrong, so it can be difficult to know if the incumbant is doing a good job or failing miserably. It is also one of those jobs that can have a big impact on how "real" our democracy is and whether *all* people are fully empowered to exercise their right to vote.

So, is she good? Is she Bad? Too Partisan? Not Partisan Enough? What should the SOS be doing to safeguard our democracy? Is she doing it? Is she undermining it? Eeeesh! These are tough questions, my brain hurts. Maybe I better just go to her website and get some recipes for nice homemade Rasberry Jam or Cinnamon Honey Butter . . .

Now that's Minnesotan . . . I feel better already.

What's in a Name?

So . . . what is Minnepolitisphere?

Well, it's a name that is a metaphor in its complexity. It's an attempt to reflect just how complicated the Minnesota Political Atmosphere has become. And why not? What used to be considered a solidly liberal, only-state-to-vote-Mondale-instead-of-Reagan, bastion of left leaning labor and agriculture politics is now in transition. Or is it?

The purpose of this blog is to track the political direction of the state. To try to find the emerging themes that are shaping its attitudes, opinions and political future as seen through its leaders, media, politicos and grassroots movements.

Minnesota's political story is evolving through the bits and pieces of politica that occur each week - some leading the news and others lurking in the back rooms. Minnepolitisphere will try to pick up on those that are important or interesting . . .or somewhere in between.

So, will the Taxpayers League lead the way or will the Wellstone Democrats turn the tide? Or is that even the right question (don't count out those Greens and Independencers).

In any event, Stay Tuned . . .