Rounds

The Argus Leader analyzes Governor Rounds' difficulty with some issues during this year's legislative session in Pierre.  The Argus seems to miss the Janklow Era, when legislators were more docile:

Rounds also stepped into the governor's office at a time when legislators are intent on establishing themselves as a separate and equal branch of government. Asked if part of the tension involves legislative attempts to move out of the shadow of the governor's office, Schoenbeck replied, "Oh, unquestionably.''

Former Gov. Bill Janklow was "aggressive and able to use all the tools at his disposal'' in his dealings with legislators, Schoenbeck said, adding that Rounds has been less aggressive in inter-branch dealings.

"Governors don't necessarily like that equal relationship (with legislators)," Schoenbeck said. "The challenge for Gov. Rounds in the next four years may be to become more accepting of the Legislature's role in the process."

Rep. Pat Haley, D-Huron, served when Janklow was in office. Haley worked closely with the Republican governor on a number of issues but the two men split over juvenile corrections and had some bitter clashes. Haley agrees Rounds hasn't been as direct and aggressive as his predecessor.