State budget negotiations have hit a snag with under two weeks left in the session, Republicans accusing Governor Mark Dayton of moving too slowly and threatening to pass their budget without the governor’s consent. Republicans point to Dayton not being available for talks several nights this week, including next weekend’s Fishing Opener. Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka says, “We are at a place where we have to get moving. We can’t continue to do little steps and think that we’re gonna get done.” The governor responded, “They’re setting up this blame game and, you know, I don’t think more time is our problem.”
Dayton says Republicans with no forewarning, buttoned up their bills in the dead of night and adds, “The way the stand the last time I’ve seen them, I’d veto them all.” The governor and Republican leaders are meeting again this afternoon behind closed doors at the Capitol.