And team officials can't understand why Gov. Tim Pawlenty is reluctant to give them the $ while the state is facing a $5 billion budget deficit.
Vikings exec Lester Bagley:
"With all due respect, he's been governor for six years, and he hasn't done anything. He hasn't lifted a finger to engage in a problem-solving discussion to help us on our issue. And that's the frustration that the NFL feels, that our ownership feels, and a lot of our allies (feel), whether they be elected officials or not. There's a lot of frustration. There's been no meaningful engagement by the executive branch."
Through his spokesman, Mr. Pawlenty:
"The governor recognizes that the Vikings bring a lot of enjoyment to a large number of Minnesotans. He's also said this year we're facing a nearly $5 billion budget deficit."
