The Minnesota Independent

Growth & Justice - Latest Stories

Pawlenty’s proposed budget cuts draw angry response

By Paul Demko | 01.28.09 | 10:49 am

Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s plan to cut state spending by $750 million over the next two years — with major hits to health and human services, higher education and aid to cities — is not attracting many fans. Since its unveiling yesterday afternoon, the proposal has been roundly criticized by local elected officials, university leaders and advocates for the poor and disabled.

Is the term ‘progressive Republican’ an oxymoron?

By Paul Demko | 12.18.08 | 3:41 pm

Is the term “progressive Republican” an oxymoron? With religious hardliners and anti-tax crusaders dominating the party in recent years, that would certainly seem to be the case. But a documentary airing this Saturday on Twin Cities Public Television makes the case that GOP politicians in Minnesota have a long tradition of advocating policies aimed at alleviating poverty and reducing inequality.