The buzz over Barack Obama's vice presidential choice is reaching fever pitch among campaign watchers and pundits, who expect Obama to make an announcement this week — perhaps as early as Wednesday morning.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Gov. Tim Pawlenty is following a well-established political tradition by taking full advantage of the Republicans' upcoming national convention in St. Paul. A remarkable number of Minnesota political figures have launched their national careers with starring roles at conventions.

A brewing controversy over a proposed sale to benefit a large mining project is pitting Iron Range DFLers and allied unions against other Democrats and the environmental community — a political lineup reminiscent of the Boundary Waters battle three decades ago.

By Doug Stone

Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2008

As Russia denied today that it had invaded another city in Georgia, diplomats and analysts around the world are trying to figure out what the flare-up in the Caucasus portends for democracy and diplomacy.

By Doug Grow | Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2008

The former vice president is one of only 10 men alive today who know the pressures of being the standard-bearer of one of the nation's two major parties. Walter Mondale recalls that when he gave his acceptance speech in 1984, he was confident of his big moment — but anxious, too, knowing from experience that just about anything could go wrong.

By Dave Beal | Monday, Aug. 11, 2008

Minnesota economists and analysts are trying to solve a high-stakes mystery: Why has the state's role as a shining star of the U.S. economy dimmed in recent years? Two state panels are trying to find the elusive answer, which has big implications for every citizen and for every state and local government's tax-and-spend decisions.

Our hockey-playing governor has skated on thin ice for much of his political career, leading some to dismiss his success as luck and good timing. But observers say such a view underestimates a skilled politician who combines political smarts and hard work. Nevertheless, with media speculation about his vice presidential prospects, Tim Pawlenty again seems to be in the right place at the right time.

By Catharine Richert

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008

WASHINGTON, D.C. — With reports flying that he is on John McCain's short list for a running mate, Gov. Tim Pawlenty's speech Wednesday before the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., was something of a screen test.

By Doug Grow

Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2008

Challenger Al Franken wasted no time taking on Sen. Norm Coleman but got a tepid response from an audience that repeatedly voiced its approval for the incumbent.

By Sharon Schmickle | Monday, Aug. 4, 2008

Like a planet bombarded by comets, plans for the Minnesota Planetarium and Space Discovery Center have been slammed repeatedly by political and budget forces, preventing the project from moving ahead. Crucial decisions will be made in the next few weeks on its future.