Coleman Steps Aside: Franken is Senator
Let us not forget, Coleman was an absolute jerk during the whole process. And,he was a sucky senator. Subsequent to Franken's establishment in office, he has proven himself equal to the best. Indeed, his lack of experience in elected office in general and the senate in particular is rather hard to detect.
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In any event, more people seem to like Al Franken than who voted for him ... if we compare the 42% of the vote he got with the 49% approval rating he now has.
The word on the street is that Colleman recount watchers have shifted strategy in order to increase an apparent lead over Al Franken.
Really low. Here's an anti-Al Franken brochure that's being mailed around here in Minnesota—that's aimed at kids, with childish illustrations, while accusing Franken of some contemptible acts.
I have a little more information and some exact numbers for you.
First, some of the numbers.
The number of votes per candidate not counting Minneapolis 3-1, which has a packet of missing votes currently being searched for:
Franken: 1,210,285
Coleman: 1,210,995
Actually, it's the reverse, his lack of experience, both general and particular, is easy to detect: he speaks his mind and is looking out for the average guy and gal. The question is if he can remain this way when he does have lots of experience. A year ago, Franken jumped right into the confirmation of Sotomayor and easily bested the rest of the Judiciary Committee in thoughtful questions. A first test is how he does with Kagan. (I haven't paid any attention, but I would guess he passes this easily). His recent speech to the ACS is great, but the real test will be in four years when he's gearing up for re-election.