AMERICAN SCENE: Minnesota: A State That Works

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Minneapolis. When working, Anderson likes to have Chopin on the hifi. When relaxing, he likes to stretch out on the floor in his shorts, drink beer and watch television. His wife admits, "It is hard to think of him as the Governor then."

Some think that Anderson's future may be larger than Minnesota. Both of the state's Senators, Humphrey and Mondale, have sidelong presidential ambitions for 1976. If neither tries, then Anderson's path to the U.S. Senate is blocked—Humphrey, then 65, would be sure to run again in 1976, and Mondale is not due to run until 1978. Anderson himself faces re-election next year. If he wins well, he could become a serious contender for Vice President on the '76 national ticket—with anyone, of course, except a fellow Minnesotan. Being young, Midwestern, Protestant and a Governor, he might elegantly complement a Ted Kennedy candidacy, although some might think it entirely too youthful a package. Or he might fit in well with a Muskie candidacy. Anderson insists, with a conviction he can afford at such an early age, that "I intend to do the best job I can for the state." It would be understandable of course if Wendy Anderson wanted never to leave Minnesota. Washington would not be half so pleasant.

Other states have more dramatic attractions, of course. To be in Ely or St. Cloud or even Minneapolis on a Saturday night and looking for excitement is to be conscious that nights are for sleeping. But there is something in the verdict of Chuck Ruhr: "California is the flashy blonde you like to take out once or twice. Minnesota is the girl you want to marry."