What’s unique about upper midwest politics?

There’s an interesting review of a new book about Russell Feingold up at Salon.com, that also points out some of the more interesting aspects of politics in Wisconsin and Minnesota. I’m not so sure that it’s an accurate description any longer, but it used to be — and perhaps can be again.

"The upper Midwest -- specifically Wisconsin and its sister state, Minnesota -- has long seen itself as the conscience of America. Both states have a tradition of clean government and social reform, imported by German and Scandinavian immigrants. And both elect senators who, depending on your point of view, are either champions of progress or annoying liberal pains in the ass. Minnesota gave us Hubert Humphrey, Eugene McCarthy and Paul Wellstone. Wisconsin produced Gaylord Nelson, the founder of Earth Day, and Robert M. La Follette, one of the leading figures of the early 20th century progressive movement."