First it was representatives from groups that backed his opponent in the race for the open seat. Now Newman won't talk to the media. Via WQOW in Eau Claire, the Associated Press reports in a short article:
A state senator from Hutchinson is refusing to meet with representatives from groups that supported his opponent in the last election. . . .
The Minnesota Nurses Association endorsed Newman's opponent but did not donate money to him. Government affairs aide Eileen Gavin says she's set up hundreds of meetings between nurses and their lawmakers and never had a request refused.
Kelley says Tuesday she can't comment on her e-mail and says Newman won't be interviewed about it.
Take that, peasants!
Hal Kimball, Newman's opponent--whom I supported but was not part of his campaign--has posted his reaction at his blog (and crossposted it at Minnesota Progressive Project). In Senator Newman: Politics at its worst Kimball reflects on the difference between our former senator, Steve Dille, and the current incumbent:
Four years ago I lost a race to Senator Steve Dille. Within weeks of the session opening I met with the Senator to discuss some higher education and Veterans issues. Senator Dille provided a personal tour of the State Capitol and Senate chambers and we kept in close contact talking about these very important issues. He had an open door for everyone.
Senator Newman...his door has a toll, if you gave to our campaign in 2010, you better give to him in 2012 or else. Politics at its worst, right before our eyes.
I hope a ethics investigation ensues...
Brian Lambert at MinnPost's Daily Glean included the story in his morning digest , and a friend hit me up just now in gchat to say the story was mentioned in MPR top-of the-hour news. Perhaps Senator Newman and Ms. Kelley will have many callers not to talk to today.
UPDATED: So that's what they call it now: Strib reports on Scott Newman's "innocent mistake"
Did Scott Newman tread on senate ethics rules with his reverse pay-to-play email?
UPDATED: Email to MNA: Sen. Scott Newman won't meet with groups that endorsed Hal Kimball
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