One Republican challenger is in, another is out in the 1st Congressional District.

Four years after she was shot in the head and went on to inspire millions with her recovery, Gabby Giffords continues to push for tighter gun-control laws, but few candidates are willing to rally to her cause.

The successful effort to legalize gay marriage in Minnesota this session also turned out to be one of the most expensive lobbying efforts in 2013, with advocates and opponents spending nearly $2 million to try an influence legislators votes on the issue.

Paul Marquart knows that when it comes to the gun debate at the Capitol, most of it boils down to matters of region and culture.

On Thursday morning state Reps. Carolyn McElfatrick and Tom Anzelc appeared on the “Making Sausage” radio program on KAXE (FM 91.7) in Grand Rapids. They fielded questions about the budget, taxes and the proposed constitutional amendments.

The issue of gun rights has blazed a path onto the policy agenda at the state Capitol. The subject invariably puts legislators at odds with either law enforcement or the National Rifle Association, depending on their vote.