Daily Downer

• In a truly touching illustration of how much Tim Pawlenty cares for all Minnesotans who will be affected by a state government shutdown (don't forget: 16,000 people would immediately be laid off), the governor is spending his time worrying how to get a couple married at Fort Snelling the day after Minnesota Meltdown 2005 is to go into effect. Here's an idea: why don't you try to avert a shutdown in the first place!
• In related news, House Republicans who have no say in the budget debate and are basically sitting back and getting paid, have decided to hold a vigil outside Senate majority leader Dean Johnson's office. If anyone starts singing kumbaya, I hope they call the cops.
• Soucheray on Sid, the Strib. How can one man be so cantankerous?
• Thandiwe Peebles...safe for now.
• Think slavery and human trafficking are things that don't happen here? Think again.
• Oh please, Seward is sooo 2004.