Political

Minnesota's legislative auditor says the state's process for environmental review of private-sector projects is too often burdened by delays, uncertainty and duplication of effort.

The assessment by the Minnesota Management and Budget department shows that federal cuts in payroll taxes and a delay in higher capital gains taxes has taken the projected budget deficit from 6.2 billion dollars to 5 billion for the upcoming 2012-2013 fiscal biennium.

Top legislative Republicans say Minnesota can't solve a $6.2 billion budget shortfall without involving public employees. Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch said Friday that wage freezes, pension reductions and cost sharing are being considered as GOP lawmakers prepare a budget proposal.

Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton says his proposal for higher income taxes might include a feature to have the increase blink off once budget conditions improve. Dayton hinted at the temporary tax in his State of the State address on Wednesday.

Possible White House ambitions are tugging at two Minnesota Republicans, creating complications for both. Former Gov. Tim Pawlenty has long been sizing up a presidential run. Now Rep. Michele Bachmann is doing likewise.

Four radio stations and a news website have put in bids to air a weekly radio show featuring Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton. Bidding closed today, and Dayton's administration could decide this week on the broadcast rights to the show.

The Government Operations and Elections Committee spent almost two hours Thursday hearing testimony on two photo ID bills. The panel is slated to vote on the bills next Tuesday.

Saturday Night Live's Kristin Wiig is getting pretty good with her impression of Minnesota 6th District Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Wiig skewered Bachmann's recent Tea Party Express response to President Barack Obama's "State of the Union Address." Funny or no? You decide.

Former Governor Tim Pawlenty's book tour promo looks more like an awesome Hollywood movie trailer.  Grab some popcorn -- this has an Aaron Sorkin feel to it. YouTube - Courage to Stand.

Gov. Mark Dayton says he doesn't want to get rid of state permits that provide "reasonable" background checks for gun buyers.