Minnesota's budget deficit has been the focal point of the state gubernatorial campaign so far, but another issue moved further into the limelight Tuesday.
Gov. Tim Pawlenty's directive to not apply for federal health-care funds under a 2010 law quickly brought out spin from both ends of the political spectrum. To expect anything else would be absurdity, as the health care reform package passed by Congress earlier this year is already the subject of much discussion in U.S. House and Senate races across the country.
Pawlenty's executive order to not seek the federal funds noted that the oft-labeled "Obamacare" plan contains "massive new spending commitments at a time when the growing federal debt threatens private sector economic growth." He also said the new law represents "unprecedented federal intrusions into individual liberty." Sounds to us like Pawlenty is sharpening his right-wing cred in lieu of a much-anticipated presidential campaign.
Democrats, on the other hand, are claiming that Pawlenty's choice to not seek the federal money will translate into the loss of billions of dollars and thousands of jobs. One state senator even raised the possibility of a lawsuit against the governor, as state law specifically requires Pawlenty to apply to some federal programs.
As we inch closer to Election Day, expect nothing else than further amplification of this great health care debate.
