Key Moments Give Fuel To Minnesota Campaign Themes

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Several upcoming events on the calendar could help energize campaigns for Minnesota governor and legislative offices. They'll drive the messages voters will hear from candidates and their allies over the next two months.

For Democrats, back-to-school week brings a chance to brag about statewide all-day kindergarten. No longer will parents be hit with fees or will school districts have to absorb costs of the extra classroom time. Over the next month, thousands of homeowners, renters and farmers will receive property tax refund checks from the state because of expanded eligibility and new money for those programs.

For Republicans, the anticipated release in early October of health insurance premium information will focus new attention on the problem-riddled MNsure. And a quarterly update on tax collections is due around the same time.