Report shows drinking at Capitol in closing days of session

ASHLEY H. GRANT
Associated Press Writer

ST. PAUL — The leaders of the House and Senate said Thursday they're looking into crafting official policies against drinking alcohol during session.

The comments came a day after a local television station aired footage from the final days of the legislative session showing lobbyists, legislative staff and one lawmaker gathered in offices at the State Capitol drinking beer, wine and liquor.

Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson, DFL-Willmar, said he planned to put together a group that would create a "written standard" for alcohol use by senators.

"Alcohol and public policy in the same place do not mix well together," he said. Later, he added, "It's an opportunity to have a look-see at us as an institution."

more: http://ap.brainerddispatch.com/pstories/state/mn/20040527/2193577.shtml

Pawlenty said that, based on his own experience and observations, Capitol drinking has long been bipartisan. He also said he didn't think drinking affected the session's outcome.

Usually he salivates at any opportunity to bash Democrats. He probably knows that the full story is a lot worse for his party.

about the backlash - and also about putting the 'Pubs' drinking habits under the microscope, as well....

I LOVE this one, tho' -

"Alcohol and public policy in the same place do not mix well together"

HAHAHAHAHAHAHEEHEEHEEHEEHEEHOHOHOHO.....ahem.

Have to go change now. ;^)

"Homosexual Marriage is the biggest issue in this state this session"
-- Michelle Bachman, Republican state legislator, Stillwater (MN)

Hmm, WAY too deluded to be just alkeehol. I'm thinking more like horse tranquilizers, PCP or something like that...

She's inhumane and sinister.

I should know.

I wrote to her once.

The letter I got back was a lot of shoveling about 'following the rule of law'. And while I'm not perfect with it, the letter was full of spelling and grammatical errors that would put a third grader to shame. Or a high school senior for that matter...

It sounds like we may get a special session after all, If only Pawlenty and Swiggum will agree to keep that silly amendment banning gay marriage off the table.

Damn, I thought we got rid of the religio-biggots in this state in the 1980s.

wow I gotta tell ya I'm shocked... just shocked /sarcasm

Talk about a non-issue.

I did my internship in the Senate and of COURSE there is alcohol floating around up there. It's everywhere, whether Repub or Dem. I personally think it SHOULD be allowed. After all, if you saw what these people (both staff and elected officials) put up with you would WANT them to drink!