Respected political journalist Lori Sturdevant will speak on her most recent book, Martin Sabo: The Making of the Modern Legislature.

Best known as the US Representative of Minnesota’s Fifth District, Martin Sabo made significant contributions to American political life while serving in the Minnesota state Legislature. Martin Sabo’s early work in Minnesota state government set the mold for how state legislatures across the country have operated since—and continues to wield—influence today.

In the late 1960s–early 1970s, Minnesota took a giant step toward a state government that fairly represents all the state’s regions and populations and one that operates in public view. It served as an operational model for legislatures around the country.

Sabo demonstrated an understanding of representative democracy and a quality of leadership that made him a highly effective catalyst for positive change. He spent his entire adult life in public service, but it was during his years as DFL minority leader and as speaker of the Minnesota House that he did his most transformative and lasting work. Enhancing Sabo’s rich legacy, this volume focuses attention on his early career and the systemic, enduring contributions to governance he initiated.

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Lori Sturdevant, whose 43-year career as a journalist for the Star Tribune and the author or editor of 13 books, will talk about Sabo’s impact, and process of researching and writing the book. There will be time for questions and discussion. Copies of Martin Sabo will be available for purchase and signing.

Lori's talk will be moderated by Bud Hayden, who describes himself as "a retired business owner that now has more time to read about history and the people who made it." He believes that the book on Martin Sabo is an example of how one person can make a difference and also provides a very good civics lesson on how to make government work better.