University of Minnesota Humphrey Institute to hold discussion the integrity of Minnesota's elections

Conference comes in midst of US Senate vote recount

The University of Minnesota Humphrey Institute's Center for the Study of Politics and Governance will host a conference on the fairness and credibility of Minnesota's elections 9:30-11:45 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 10. at Cowles Auditorium, 301 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis.

This conference, titled "The Minnesota Tradition of Fair Elections," comes in the midst of the recount in Minnesota's U.S. Senate race between incumbent Senator Norm Coleman and challenger Al Franken, which is anticipated to be one of the closest in Minnesota history. Although the war of words between the campaigns has raised concerns about the integrity of elections in the state, Minnesota's administrative and judicial process for elections is among the most respected in the country.

Panelists will include Vice President Walter Mondale, U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad, Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, former Gov. Elmer Andersen, Chief of Staff Tom Swain and national and regional experts on the election process.

The Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs' Center for the Study of Politics and Governance (CSPG) develops practical, independent, and non-partisan solutions to pressing political and policy challenges. Founded in 2005, CSPG fosters effective and efficient governance, increases the transparency of government processes, and rebuilds the public trust in order to counteract negative influences that threaten our democracy.

The event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration is required.