[Speed Gibson,
Saturday January 7, 2006 at 12:25am]
Us vs. Them
Minnesota Attorney General and candidate for Governor in 2006 Mike Hatch called a press conference about the State's current practice of selling "private" information.
Tonight on Almanac, Deputy Attorney General Lori Swanson took on Eric Lipman from the Governor's office. It was a bit strained, each accusing the other boss of negligence in this matter.
What struck me was how Swanson kept referring to "the Pawlenty Administration" as if she or her office were outsiders. Even as a mere citizen and resident, this bothers me. Aren't we all on the same team, here? Yes, the AGS is elected, but isn't the office part of the Executive Branch? Can't we all get along?
It's one thing for Mr. Hatch, as an elected official, to take his shots at Mr. Pawlenty, also elected. And while Eric Lipman also could have conducted himself better tonight, he is a hired political operative.
But as a Deputy AG, Lori Swanson can and should appear to clarify the legal situation, not to stoke the fire. She is part of the Executive Branch. Clarification of the law is helpful and appropriate. Taking political shots against another member of the Executive Branch is not.
Tonight on Almanac, Deputy Attorney General Lori Swanson took on Eric Lipman from the Governor's office. It was a bit strained, each accusing the other boss of negligence in this matter.
What struck me was how Swanson kept referring to "the Pawlenty Administration" as if she or her office were outsiders. Even as a mere citizen and resident, this bothers me. Aren't we all on the same team, here? Yes, the AGS is elected, but isn't the office part of the Executive Branch? Can't we all get along?
It's one thing for Mr. Hatch, as an elected official, to take his shots at Mr. Pawlenty, also elected. And while Eric Lipman also could have conducted himself better tonight, he is a hired political operative.
But as a Deputy AG, Lori Swanson can and should appear to clarify the legal situation, not to stoke the fire. She is part of the Executive Branch. Clarification of the law is helpful and appropriate. Taking political shots against another member of the Executive Branch is not.