IP Chair Jack Ulrich

IP Chair Jack Ulrich

Last used as a metaphor for Norm Coleman’s dwindling odds at winning back his old U.S. Senate seat, Monty Python’s Black Knight is again being conjured as a political metaphor — this time by the Independence Party, which likens itself to the tenacious fighter who, despite getting all his limbs lopped off by King Arthur, fights on.

In an email to supporters, party chair Jack Uldrich lamented Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s announcement that he’d be eliminating the Political Contribution Refund on July 1 as part of his budget-cutting measures. Like the Black Knight, the IP has faced setbacks (but not severed arms and legs), yet continues “fighting as though nothing has changed.” Uldrich writes:

On principle, the Independence Party of Minnesota has always agreed to fight its Republican and DFL opponents with one arm tied behind its back because of our refusal to accept and be influenced by special interest and lobbyist money.  Now the Governor is slicing off our other arm by eliminating the PCR program which rebates political contributions dollar-for-dollar up to $50 for individuals ($100 per couple).

Like the noble Black Knight, the Independence Party will proceed on its noble quest. As the only political party truly dedicated to fiscal responsibility, I am of the opinion that during these difficult economics it is only fair that political parties and candidates share in the burden of balancing the state budget. As such, I have no qualms with Pawlenty’s decision.

Uldrich urges supporters to use the refund program while they can. A postscript to his appeal reads: “If you prefer to fight with at least one hand, make your contribution today!”