Few Minnesota donors for inauguration

Barack Obama’s inaugural committee has raised more than $27 million so far for inaugural festivities, putting the organization on pace to hit its goal of at least $40 million. More than 1,200 individuals have made contributions of $200 or more, but just four are Minnesota residents, according to a list of donors maintained by the committee.

PepsiAmericas CEO Robert Pohlad has chipped in $50,000, while his wife, Rebecca, added another $37,500. Alida Messinger — a veteran Democratic donor, Rockefeller heir, and ex-wife of former Sen. Mark Dayton — also contributed $37,500. Finally, Jeffrey Balanga, CEO of Minnetonka-based Carlson Marketing, made a $25,000 donation.

As the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal previously reported, there are some other donors with Minnesota connections. UnitedHealth Group Executive Vice President Thomas Strickland contributed $50,000, while three other employees of the Minnetonka-based company gave at least $200.

Under rules put forth by Obama’s inaugural committee, individuals are prohibited from giving more than $50,000. In addition corporations, political-action committees, lobbyists and non-citizens are barred from contributing to the festivities.