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Sunday, April 06, 2008
I can be a Senator: Because I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and, doggone it, people like me
The May issue of The Atlantic (not yet online) has a feature on Al Franken and his run for the Senate in Minnesota. A very positive portrayal that captures the excitement of a newcomer to national politics who seems to offer something new and who appeals to young and first-time voters and new activists. It reminded me of a profile in the May 2004 New Yorker about another newcomer to national politics who had emerged as the surprising winner from a crowded Democratic field seeking the nomination for a Republican-held Senate seat and who seemed to bring something new and unique to the table.
So, I would love to hear from people who have been paying closer attention to this, especially any Minnesotans, who see this one on the ground and up close: Can Franken actually win this? And can he beat incumbent Republican Norm Coleman in November?
Posted by Howard Wasserman on April 6, 2008 at 01:25 PM | Permalink
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Comments
FYI: Al doesn't have his own party endorsement locked up. He's facing a strong challenge from a college professor named Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer. Jack has huge foreign policy expertise, really strong peace and sustainability creds that play well with tuned in issues activists here in Minnesota. Al doesn't have those: he supported the war; he believed at the time that a President wouldn't lie about war; and now he's for nuclear power and won't rule out coal.
From my calls to Minnesota party actists, many are nervous about Al's personality playing well enough to win. Others are concerned about his mushy issues stance as ultimately not being clear and inspiring enough to win voters over. Jack is inspiring hope and bringing clear and courageous positions to this race. He's gaining ground fast. Pay attention, it could get really fun by the time of our state cnvention June 6-8.
Posted by: Paul | Apr 6, 2008 9:14:54 PM
"and now he's for nuclear power and won't rule out coal."
I love this. Yes, we must have a candidate who will "rule out" (whatever that means) the source of most of the country's power. Forward, comrades.
Posted by: Jay | Apr 7, 2008 7:48:58 AM
Franken didn't pay workers compensation insurance for some of his employees and was subsequently fined $25,000.
Posted by: p | Apr 9, 2008 5:15:00 PM
when you run circus clown for high office the joke is on you. it's like that old saying about the scorpion that promises not to sting but stings any way. it's nature of the beast. it is what it is.
on the other hand, 6 years of a designated jackass and human joke whose jokes are never funny. Sign me up!!!
Posted by: Kudzu Fire | Jun 3, 2008 9:17:49 PM
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