Will state sacrifice?

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has been taking small steps toward reopening the state amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope he keeps moving ahead before Minnesota slips away into economic oblivion.

On the matter of the state budget, now in the red because of the pandemic, Walz is talking about “shared sacrifice.” But we wonder (doubt, actually) whether he believes government should sacrifice, by cutting its reach and spending. Spending for virus relief is one thing. Perpetuating and expanding a nanny state is another.

People are frustrated

The Martin County Commission this week rejected a citizen’s plea to declare the county a “Constitutional County.” This is a movement that wants individuals to be put in charge of their daily lives, including being able to return to work, attend church, etc., as before the pandemic.

Commissioners seemed sympathetic to the cause, but the majority backed the County Attorney’s advice not to make such a declaration. He noted that Gov. Tim Walz’s stay-at-home order is constitutional, until it is challenged and overturned in court. But, again, people are frustrated and want the governor to act.

Flynn case dropped

The hoax Russia investigation continues to reveal its weak and devious origins. The probe looked into supposed “links” between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russian interference in the election. There never were any, but it was great politics for Democrats for years. Not so much anymore.

This week, the Justice Department abruptly halted its criminal case against Trump’s first national security adviser, Michael Flynn. The department now says an FBI interview of Flynn was conducted “without any legitimate investigative basis.” No kidding.

IHD will not be held

Interlaken Heritage Days, the summer festival in Fairmont, has announced that the June tradition will not be held this year. City festivals in surrounding towns may face a similar fate, as social distancing guidelines seek to keep people apart.

Another big event, the annual Martin County Relay for Life, slated for late June, has been postponed.

These decisions are agonizing for organizers, who generally work year-round on planning, lining up sponsors and bringing in entertainment. We thank them for all they do and hope our communities will support these events again, when they can.