Minnesota Politics & Government

For the first time in decades, here is an in-depth look at Minnesota government and politics, providing a useful overview of the history, structure, and distinctive characteristics of the political system in the North Star State. Minnesota’s government is often held up as a role model for other states. Drawing on survey research, electoral analysis, interview data, and political experience, the authors examine contemporary politics in Minnesota, emphasizing in particular its long-standing moralistic dimension. Attention is given to the major components of the state’s political system: the constitution, legislature, courts, relationship to both the federal system and local governments, lobbying, elections, campaign finance, and public attitudes toward taxes and services. Equally important, the authors assess various enduring myths and views about Minnesota politics, including its legendary liberalism and citizen involvement in the political scene, and even consider how its new governor, former wrestler Jesse Ventura, fits into Minnesota’s traditions.

Daniel J. Elazar, a professor of political science at Temple University and Bar-Ilan University, is founding editor of the Politics and Governments of the American States series and director of the Center for the Study of Federalism. His many books include Constitutionalizing Globalization and The American Mosaic. Virginia Gray is a professor of political science at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. Her publications include Politics in the American States: A Comparative Approach. Wyman Spano is a Minnesota lobbyist and coeditor of the state’s long-standing insiders’ political newsletter, Politics in Minnesota.