Wintry mix spreads across Minnesota

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A national comedian announced this weekend that he's going to work to defeat Minnesota Republican Congressman John Kline in the November election.

Bill Maher made the announcement on his HBO program Friday night after running the so-called "Flip a District" contest. He said his viewers picked Kline over 16 other Republicans because Kline backs for-profit colleges that Maher said result in high student debt.

"The living embodiment of legislation for hire," Maher said as he announced Kline as the winner. "The Men's Wearhouse of empty suits. From Minnesota's 2nd District, come on down, John Kline!"

It isn't certain what Maher, a Democrat, will do to unseat Kline, but he spent $1 million to re-elect President Barack Obama in 2012. It also isn't certain if Maher will make a difference in the race. Kline is currently considered in safe territory by national pundits.

However, Kline's DFL opponent, Mike Obermueller, welcomed the attention.

Kline's spokesman, Troy Young, dismissed Maher's contest. He also criticized Obermueller for embracing it.

This year's contest is a rematch. Kline defeated Obermueller by eight percentage points in 2012. Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District includes the southern Twin Cities suburbs and exurbs.

Here's Maher's announcement (Note: The video includes some graphic language):

Politics and Government News

Capitol View®

Tom Scheck

Author

Bill Maher announced this weekend that he's going to work to defeat Minnesota Republican Congressman John Kline in the November election.

Maher targets Kline in ‘Flip a District’

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