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U.S. gender wage gap grows for first time in a decade; Trump has embraced NC's Mark Robinson, calling him 'Martin Luther King on steroids'; Volunteers sought as early voting kicks off in MN; Women's political contributions in congressional races fall short of men's.

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Rising threats of political violence, a Federal Reserve rate cut, crypto industry campaign contributions and reproductive rights are shaping today's political landscape.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

Big Stone Decision Expected Tomorrow

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Wednesday, June 4, 2008   

St. Paul, MN – A decision is expected Thursday about whether a coal-fired power plant on the drawing board in South Dakota will be able to transmit some of its energy output into Minnesota. Backers of the Big Stone Two power plant want to build it near the town of Milbank, in northeastern South Dakota, and bring power into Minnesota through transmission lines to Morris and Granite Falls. To do the latter, they need a green light from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

On Tuesday, the PUC heard arguments from both sides. Janette Brimmer, legal director for the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, argued against the plan on behalf of five environmental and conservation groups that are hoping instead for cleaner energy alternatives.

"The public and regulators and policymakers look at this and say, 'Do we really want old, dirty coal?' It's not good for public health, it's not good for the environment and, certainly, the whole global warming component is driving a lot of that consideration."

Big Stone Two proponents consider coal the cheapest and most efficient source of power for a growing energy market. But Brimmer says opponents see better options, which would produce even more energy in the long run.

"Look at conservation - you know, we could really use a lot less energy. And efficiency measures - like more efficient appliances. Wind energy is a big part of this case, too, because western Minnesota and the eastern Dakotas have some of the best wind resources in the nation."

If they lose Thursday's vote, Big Stone Two backers can appeal. However, Brimmer says it would be a long, expensive process, one that they might not wish to undertake.



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