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MDE FROM THE ARCHIVES: GRAMS MAY RUN IN 8TH; OBERSTAR MAY RETIRE
By Michael B. Brodkorb | May 11, 2006
Back in April of 2005, I recieved a tip that Rod Grams was considering a run for Congress in the 8th CD.
"Over the weekend I heard from a high-level and (believe it or not, credible) DFL friend that Oberstar finally has talked about retiring. It’s not clear whether he’s talking about 2006 or 2008, though. In the past, when people like Tony Sertich have tried to broach the topic w/Oberstar, he has kind of brushed it off as being too early to talk about that. Not so now, I guess. We’ll see if his wife agrees (she’s supposedly the one who has the most interest in him staying a Congressman–she likes being a Congressman’s wife and all the prestige that comes w/it). I also heard that people in DC have heard the retirement hint from Oberstar, too.
Consequently, I know that Rod Grams, who works mostly in DC and is privy to the beltway gossip, is seriously interested in running for the seat (the farm where he lives, and the radio stations that he and Chris own, are all in the 8th CD). Since 1994 when Rod won the 8th CD in his senate run, the district has changed to become more favorable. Still, the candidate on the DFL side will be key."
The more fascinating part of this post is that rumors of Oberstar's retirement are starting to grow. Grams running in the 8th is not the reason Oberstar may retire, but my sources say a competitive race in '06 may trigger a retirement in '08.
I'll leave this post as an open thread.
Tags: Jim Oberstar, Rod Grams
Topics: Jim Oberstar, Rod Grams | 2 Comments »
2 Responses to “MDE FROM THE ARCHIVES: GRAMS MAY RUN IN 8TH; OBERSTAR MAY RETIRE”
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May 11th, 2006 at 12:34 PM
Michael,
The Oberstar retirement rumors have been circulating up north for several years, but lately have seemed more credible. Everything I hear points to this being his last term (if he defeates Rod Grams).
Why do I say they have gotten more credible lately? Bill Richards, who has been with Oberstar as a staffer forever, is also rumored to be retiring soon. I think he’s a key, and when he leaves it’s a signal Oberstar is on his way out.
May 12th, 2006 at 4:32 PM
The only reason Rod Grams is running is because he needs a job. Or attention. This is a guy who lasted one term, remember? Lost to Dayton–who you Republicans like to point to as one of the worst senators. Considered running in 2002 and was laughed at. Considered running in 2005 and was laughed at. Maybe son Morgan can manage his campaign, or is he still in prison?