Shake-Up at Politics in Minnesota: Two Publishers Depart

Two publishers of the influential political e-newsletter Politics in Minnesota abruptly left the publication on Friday, according to its remaining publisher, Sarah Janecek. Blois Olson and David Erickson left “to pursue other endeavors,” according to a June 18 note on the site. Reached Tuesday afternoon, Janecek confirmed the departures, but wouldn’t say what led to their exits.

“I don’t want to be goofy about this, so I’ll just say we decided to part ways,” she said, citing Olson’s busy schedule as a father of two and the success of his public relations firm. Olson was unavailable for comment.

The publication, highly regarded by political insiders for its focus on the capitol, will keep the left/right balance it has maintained since D.J. Leary and Wy Spano founded it more than 25 years ago, she confirmed. Janecek will represent the “GOP angle,” the site said, while Dan Feidt will bring “youth, Internet savvy and a leftie point of view.” She said there’s an “embarrassment of riches” in the area, which is stocked amply with good, left-leaning writers, but she couldn’t name Olson’s replacement. The site did indicate that it will bring on new voices, including “names those in Minnesota public affairs will recognize” and “heretofore unheard-of people.” Macalester graduate Tracey Howell will oversee the site’s free Daily Reports.

Calling the subscription-based e-mail newsletter “the rag for everyone at the Capitol,” Janecek said a site redesign is underway and will include statewide news headlines and a blog, as well as two subscription email news services. She wouldn’t say if conflict with Olson prompted his departure, but hinted as much.

“Breakups are awkward,” she said. “Let’s hope this one stays on the high road.”