A group of Republican lawmakers wants to block the southwest light rail project in the Twin Cities by asking the federal government to allow the state to use nearly one billion dollars for other transportation projects. Republican Senator David Osmek from Mound says, “The unaccountable, unelected Met Council, solely appointed by Governor Mark Dayton is intentionally and willfully seeking to back-door this project around the voters and around the elected legislature.” Supporters say if Minnesota doesn’t take the light rail money, it will go to other states. Opponents respond Minnesota taxpayers shouldn’t have to kick in money for a project that’s much less cost-effective than roads or buses.