[Winona Online Democracy]
Re: "What a Way to End"--Legislative celebrations, lobbying power, non-metro future The drinking party for DFL legislators, state employees, and lobbyists as the session ended may have been premature, but it is not particularly surprising. Republicans at the legislature also celebrate periodically even though, as I'm sure everyone who has attended activities of both parties (anywhere) agrees, their celebrations tend to lack the wildness (or, if you wish, exuberance) of Democratic ones. The involvement of lobbyists at the event deserves comment, however. In Minnesota, as elsewhere in the United States, lobbyists constitute as much a part of the legislative process as the legislators themselves. Representing both public and private groups, they promote and defend their groups' interests in numerous ways, including the supplying of expert information and the initial drafting of bills. The prominent presence of the lobbyist for the City of Minneapolis at the bash reflects the power of metro area governments in comparison with those of non-metro areas. The governments of populous areas-cities, school districts, etc-will have their own lobbyists to buttress the influence of their legislators. Governments representing less populous areas cannot afford lobbyists and must depend on the useful but less focused representation of statewide organizations to deal with legislation. The consequence is that non-metro governmental bodies-cities, school districts, counties-have less clout in determining the distribution of state resources, although some areas may have legislators powerful enough to alter the balance of power somewhat for a time. (Both Gene Pelowski and Bob Kierlin appear to be sincere, intelligent and fair legislators, but can they exert significant power in relation to local resources? I hope so, but I don't know. Each can point to some accomplishments, but they may be fighting against the tide.) If the national pattern holds, I suspect that non-metro areas such as Winona will see a continuing decline in influence at the state level as more and more population concentrates in the large cities. At one time rural and small town interests dominated most state legislatures. The tables have turned, although cities themselves will have to battle growing suburban interests within the metro areas. Roy Nasstrom _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
