Oles in the News: Political scientist talks about Minnesota politics in two national outlets
During the first week of January, St. Olaf College Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies Dan Hofrenning spoke with the Associated Press and Reuters regarding breaking political news coverage in Minnesota. Hofrenning’s academic background focuses on analyzing United States politics, including campaigns and elections.
In an interview with the Associated Press, Hofrenning weighed in on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s announcement that he would end his third-term reelection campaign:
“One never says never on political futures, but a two-term governor, vice presidential candidate— that’s a pretty good run.And, at the end of that run, pulling out of the race is a recognition that he had some strong political vulnerabilities.”
Hofrenning predicts that Walz’s political career can continue in other capacities, such as a potential cabinet secretary or ambassador. Read the full story on the Associated Press website.
In a Reuters article, which evaluated the relationship between the federal and Minnesota government over the last few months, Hofrenning questioned whether the federal government could maintain political support while targeting specific states. He said, “The political question of the hour is: How is it playing out for Donald Trump? There seems to be growing opposition to the aggressive ICE tactics.”