Good morning, and happy Friday. Let’s take a look at the Digest.
1. Republican Jason Lewis and Democrat Angie Craig met for their second debate in the campaign for the open congressional seat in Minnesota’s 2nd District. It was a lively hour hosted by MPR News. The two clashed over health care, the presidential candidates, and their previous careers; his as a radio talk show host and hers as an executive at a medical device company. (MPR News)
2. Candidates and groups supporting and opposing them have spent $34 million on congressional races in Minnesota, and the spending continues. Almost80 percent of that money has gone to just three districts: the 8th, the 3rd and the 2nd. Those three districts are considered among the most competitive in the nation this year. The 8th District alone is one of the most expensive races in the country. (Pioneer Press)
3.Minnesota Senate Democrats are asking Gov. Mark Dayton to call a special session to address rising health care costs, through a tax credit on insurance premiums. Premiums are set to increase substantially in 2017 for people buying individual market coverage under the federal Affordable Care Act. The Democrats say their short term fix could cost more than $100 million. The SenateRepublican leader blamed Democrats for causing the health care problem. He said they're now trying to distract voters with an election year stunt. (MPR News)
4.For undergraduates at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, the resident sticker price for tuition and fees runs about $14,000 a year, triple what it was in 2000. At the current rate, it will cost this fall’s freshman class at least $56,000 if students can finish in four years. Private schools can cost considerably more. Prices like that are whycandidates seeking the White House and other offices are talking about rising college costs and student debt, although many voters remain skeptical that any of the plans are achievable. (MPR News)
5. Donald Trump on Thursday doubled down on his debate night refusal to say whether he would accept the results of the election. "I will totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election - if I win," Trump joked at a rally in Delaware, Ohio. He said he wants to reserve the right to challenge the election if it’s close. He also said,"I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always." But headded, "Bottom line, we're going to win."(New York Times)
