Gov. Pawlenty foresees a tough legisaltive session ahead

by T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol Reporter

Gov. Tim Pawlenty today predicted that the upcoming legislative session, which begins in early February, will be more difficult than some are expecting.

A “much more challenging session than I think people realize,” said Pawlenty, speaking at the Capitol this afternoon.

It won’t just be a bonding bill, a few touch-up items, and everybody hitting the campaign trail, he predicted.

Talking about the Minnesota Vikings and the elusive new stadium, Pawlenty praised the team owners and said the Vikings “bring a lot of joy” to Minnesotans.

Still, Pawlenty diagnosed finding a stadium solution “a tough one.”

“It’s going to add excitement to the debate,” he said when asked about the political implications of a possible Vikings appearance in the Super Bowl.

The Thanksgiving holiday will find the governor on the ice at least part of the time.

Pawlenty hopes to play hockey over the holiday — perhaps playing on Friday, his birthday. Pawlenty will turn 49-years-old.

The governor may also spend some of the holiday weekend in the kitchen, having recently picked up a cook book on southern cooking.