Blue State Ball 2016!

Last night was so much fun.  It was the 12th Annual Blue State Ball, at Aria in Minneapolis!  So many great photos to show you, but first, this disclaimer - 

When at a public event like the Blue State Ball, you're dependent on people taking your phone/camera and snapping photos.  Sometimes it works great!  Sometimes...well you get this:

(Ian Levitt and myself doing a quantum time jump at last night's festivities)

I appreciate anyone who prevented me from having to take photos in selfie mode, so on behalf of the people who helped me, don't get mad at blurry or dark photos!  

First, the great politicians, starting with one of my favorite, MN-08 Congressman Rick Nolan!

State Attorney General, and one of the greatest supporters of the Progressive movement in Minnesota, Lori Swanson!

Here's MN State Auditor Rebecca Otto.  In 2015, the Republicans tried to destroy her office.  Apparently, accountability through fair and efficient oversight of tax payer money is not something the MNGOP is for.  This year, let's re-instate the fairness Minnesota needs, with the best darn Auditor in the country!

St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman not only skated the Red Bull Crashed Ice Course, something which might make him the coolest Mayor in the Country, but his leadership, especially over the last few weeks, has been exceptional.  So great to finally get to meet him and his wife too.

And here is Marla Vagts, a rising name in the DFL.  She is challenging Pat Garofalo for the House seat in District 58B, and she shared with me an interesting tidbit.  Apparently Pat has not said if he is running again, and will wait for after the session to officially commit.  Interesting...got him scared Marla!

Next up, the Hosts, starting with Bill Press.

Thom Hartmann is so freaking smart.  Was so nice to have him back at the BSB!

Norman Goldman is fantastic!  One of the most personable people I've ever seen; he had a great speech and was working the crowd the entire night!

Next up Station People!  Here's Station owner Chad Larson with Norman.

The trio of my producer Bryan, the incredible Jack Rice, and someone else...

Host of The Daily Report, Ian Levitt

Betty Folliard, who hosts A Woman's Place on Sundays, and was MY House rep.  I adore her work, strength and effort, and she thought I didn't remember her!  With us is the very cool Branson.  

Here's Paul Metsa, the great musician who hosts the Wall of Power Radio Hour on AM 950.  He opened the Humphrey Mondale Dinner a few weeks back, but was just socializing last night.

Then more great people from last night, starting with a great friend, Jackie!

Here's Catie Nations who came to speak on behalf of Bernie Sanders.  For the record, we asked both campaigns to send people over to talk about the candidates.  Catie was fantastic, and so passionate.   

Mayor Coleman was the designated speaker for the Hillary Clinton campaign.  

Here's Maureen Hackett from Howling for Wolves!

Great listeners...

Norman talking to the fans...

The coolness of Aria...

The speeches.  Rick Nolan was on fire.  I think he could give Keith Ellison a run for his money.

And Thom Hartmann making us all smarter.

And me tormenting the crowd...

Thank you so much for all of the wonderful words and comments last night.  I am very flattered by your kindness.  The crowd was great, the guests were great, and you were great.  Here's looking forward to next year!