Sports

Dayton looking to next year after Vikings stadium setback

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Apr 16, 2012 at 12:36 pm

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Gov. Mark Dayton is already looking ahead to next year on a new Vikings stadium after his preferred proposal hit a critical setback in the Legislature.

Dayton says it's up to lawmakers to revive the public financing package for the $975 million stadium before they head home for the year. But Dayton was pessimistic Tuesday after a committee defeat of the plan the night before.

The Democratic governor has made the stadium a priority this year, arguing it would result in construction jobs and keep a professional team without a lease from leaving the state. Dayton says he has "no doubt" it will prevail in 2013.

Republican House Speaker Kurt Zellers blamed Democrats, who put up only one "yes" vote in the 9-6 defeat.