Lawmakers Have Lukewarm Reaction To Vikes Stadium

ST. PAUL (AP) - A proposed new Vikings stadium north of St. Paul is getting a muted reaction from lawmakers whose approval will be needed to pass a stadium bill.

Republicans control both legislative chambers, but the stadium issue doesn't follow party lines.

Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dave Thompson, a Republican from Lakeville, says a stadium that relies on new taxes "in no way" helps average households with their finances.

GOP Rep. Carol McFarlane of White Bear Lake says her constituents want a $5 billion deficit settled before a stadium vote and they want to vote on a proposed half-cent county sales tax increase.

Democratic Rep. Kate Knuth of New Brighton says the tax increase would be a "big lift" for Ramsey County residents.

The proposed stadium site sits in her district.