November 12, 2008
Posted: November 12th, 2008 07:02 PM ET

From
Al Franken's campaign has continued to bring up the allegations to reporters.
Al Franken's campaign has continued to bring up the allegations to reporters.

Minneapolis, Minnesota (CNN) – Just hours after a liberal-leaning Minnesota group called for an investigation into allegations that Sen. Norm Coleman accepted $75,000 worth of gifts, the incumbent Republican himself said he is eager for any probe to move forward "immediately."

Court documents allege that Texas businessman Nasser Kazeminy fraudulently ordered corporate funds be funneled to Coleman - a potential violation of Senate ethics rules.

Alliance for a Better Minnesota, a self-described progressive organization, sent letters to both the Senate Select Committee on Ethics and the Minneapolis branch of the FBI calling for a full investigation.

Al Franken’s campaign and the state Democratic Farmer Labor Party also continue to bring up the allegations repeatedly to reporters.

Coleman said the accusations were influenced by partisanship. “As another Democratic group that spent millions of dollars attempting to defeat me calls for a politically motivated investigation, I want to be clear that I not only welcome such an investigation, but I am eager to have it move forward immediately." Coleman said in a Wednesday statement. "The fact that a United States Senator is being used as a tool of extortion by private parties should be of concern to all Minnesotans. I reiterate that none of the allegations which attempt to besmirch my family’s good name and reputation are true.

"This investigation should move forward, and it is my hope that those who were behind this matter, their motives and what their connections may be to my political opponents be reviewed aggressively by the appropriate authorities and the media. This matter, which has emerged again as a result of the tactics of my political opponents, during a recount, ought to raise even further suspicions in the minds of Minnesotans as to its motives and purposes.”

Franken and Coleman remain locked in an unresolved Senate race, separated by just a few hundred votes. A state law-mandated recount is set to begin November 19.

Filed under: Norm Coleman


Cynthia   November 13th, 2008 10:59 am ET

We are pulling for you Norm. Don't let these liberals get away with stealing this election. Call them out on the voter fraud that was going on, on election day....non-citizens voting and those people that stood outside polling stations vouching for people that they did not know and vouching for more than one person. This was all happening at one of the South Minneapolis polling stations all day!!!! I am sure if they looked at just those elements, Frankenstein would lose 15,000 votes

another sarah   November 13th, 2008 12:24 am ET

Sarah Van Palin is so self-centered she is her own worst enemy. I"m for doing what Obama did; he complemented her political skill, and then ignored her. She will be around for some time because she is newsworthy, and has lots of sex appeal. That always sells-–for awhile. The American people need to put her aside, forget two party government for awhile and give Obama the help he asked for. No one in history ever inherited such a disgraceful mess. We have a chance, perhaps for the last time, to pull ourselves out of the muck and show the watching world that we are still the greatest country in the world.

ET from OMAHA   November 12th, 2008 11:59 pm ET

I just red Sarah Palin is willing to work in an OBAMA administration.
Wow that's amazing.
First of all the only one thing she is good at is shooting mooses and the white house is not a hunting field.
The baby sitting position is already taken too.
She can't be a cook because OBAMA's family is not use to moose burgers. What else can she do?
Can somebody put that woman away from the media before the world start to laugh at us? Gosh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ben in Dallas   November 12th, 2008 11:59 pm ET

This is so refreshing! The many people who now recognize the hidden agenda of the republicans was to create a haven for the rich to get richer and for republican office holders to have their hands in the till are finally speaking out. I have been waiting 20 years for this.

ROCHELLE   November 12th, 2008 11:55 pm ET

Coleman is shaking in his boots and really doesn't want an investigation, so, he is sho boating to make people think that he is not worried about anything hoping that they will pull up and not investigate him. Another set of hand cuffs coming up!

rubyshuz   November 12th, 2008 11:27 pm ET

I really thought all the mouth-breathing, far-right haters would have retreated into their basements by now to lick their wounds and plan their revenge. Apparently they're still here, hating. Too bad.

VETS4Obama   November 12th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Coleman is sweating that his voter suppression efforts might not have worked! What a joke! Just another Repugnantcan Bush rubber stamp!

Sue   November 12th, 2008 10:51 pm ET

Cutsnake: Nice fairy tale. Coleman has never been Governor.

VETS4Obama   November 12th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Last Honest Man get a clue!  Do you really think we benefited after the last 8 years under Bush?  Spare me!!!  The country has NEVER been in worse shape!  Pout all you want but with an attitude like that I hope you and your party enjoy your hard fought and rightfully deserved minority status!  I imagine with all the hate that spews out of that exclusive party it will be in the minority for a long long long time!

VETS4Obama   November 12th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Hey Last Honest Man get a clue!  Do you really think we benefited after the last 8 years under Bush?  Spare me!!!  The country has NEVER been in worse shape!  Pout all you want but with an attitude like that I hope you and your party enjoy your hard fought and rightfully deserved minority status!  I imagine with all the hate that spews out of that exclusive party it will be in the minority for a long long long time!

Sarah the Sandwich-Maker   November 12th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

Palin: Head of Douchebag Security

Swimsuit?   November 12th, 2008 10:43 pm ET

Frankin will win it.CNN, if your going to keep putting Palin on your site everyday to sell ad time,please move on to the swimsuit competition.

Richard A. Spomer   November 12th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

How will this silliness help a failing democracy?

This economy has been since President-elect Obama got the mantel? How, were, and when He communicate his change?

Last Honest Man   November 12th, 2008 10:37 pm ET

What a Joke. First Obama....now Franken. The American public deserves all the misery it probably has coming. I just hope it effects the people who voted for these idiots more.

little barack   November 12th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Who wants to add a comment to this. I wanted to grill Palin because she's easy pickins, you betcha!

CutSnake   November 12th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

I was in Minnesota visiting friends one New Year a few years back. Coleman showed up at the Gasthof, the German beer hall where we were eating.

Everyone was getting their photos taken with the guy, and although I'm a Democrat, I wasn't averse to a photo. He put his arms around the waists of my friend and me and then squeezed my butt, big time. Really grabbed a handful. Grinning at me the whole time until I forcefully removed his hand from my butt. No one could believe what they were seeing.

He ended up being elected Governor, and every since, has continued to reveal himself as the sleazebag he really is.

Michael G Ventura,CA   November 12th, 2008 10:12 pm ET

Isn't that what Ted Stevens of Alaska said?

Sarah Smith   November 12th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

PARIS in 2012!! got MY VOTE!

NOT palin... yuck

T   November 12th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Joe, don't let him show you his gun collection, and if he insist, then run like a gazel! Don't let him confuse you with the bimbo Palin, who like to destroy life.

I Just Said Thanks, but No Thanks to Another 4 Years of g.o.p. corruption, arrogance and incompetence   November 12th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Coleman is a an example of g.o.p. corruption.
Speaking of corruption, Begich just pulled ahead of Senator "Tubes" Stevens in Alaska according to fivethrityeight.com.
Sorry MSM, but it looks like Palin will not be running in a special election for US Senator.

malclave   November 12th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

"My God…she could not comment on BUSH's DOCTRINE"

Mightn't that be due to the fact that "Bush Doctrine" is not a generally accepted term to describe anything?

How would you comment on the Obama Doctrine? Are you for or against it?

Linda C.   November 12th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

I am so disappointed regarding our common sense in this country...We already had one (not so bright president). Now we actually would even discuss the possiblitiy for Palin to become President...My God...she could not comment on BUSH's DOCTRINE. She does not remotely compare to Hillary Clinton...She does not represent me as a woman...She has no relevant degree...What are people thinking.....She's a blank slate.

Ryan   November 12th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I live in Minnesota.

First of all, Coleman has done nothing for this state. He's been a partisan hack ever since he got to the senate.

Franken at least grew up here. Most people dismiss him as a gimmick but he's a Harvard grad and deserves a chance.

Coleman is a crook and I hope this investigation brings a lot of his under the table BS to light. He accepts gifts and bribes through donors buying stuff for his wife in the big department stores in Minneapolis. The people working there have known it for years.

And let's not forget Coleman announced he wanted Franken to concede even though state law mandates a recount.

Neeraj   November 12th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Coleman has probably taken more than 75k worth of things. He's so corrupt.

reggie   November 12th, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Franken is not only a comedian, HE'S a JOKE. Hard to believe people in Minnesota would vote for him. Luckily, more voted for Sen Coleman.

Jeff from Jersey   November 12th, 2008 8:50 pm ET

If all the guilty politicians stepped down there wouldn't be any.

GO HOME SARAH AND DON'T COME BACK.....EVER!

linda from South Dakota   November 12th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

if u are guilty, ya serve the time,, as far as palin,, lol she wants to help obama?,, you gotta be kiddin,, no thanks,, sarah,, stay home ok? we dont need your kind of help,,,

Pat Pa.   November 12th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Let the investigation begin !!

Michael   November 12th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Is it my imagination, or is Coleman one of the most arrogant public servants ever?

From his demands that Franken just give up on a (state-mandated) recount despite only a 200-vote difference to railing against "private parties" (um, that would be most Americans), it's almost as if he's daring the citizens of Minnesota to toss him out on his ear.

Renee   November 12th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Watching Campbell Brown right now, and she gets on my last nerve! I'm going to have to change the channel! It's not just what she says, but the way she moves her mouth, ratchets her whole jaw around to get her words out, and her nasal tone. Her nasal tone is at LEAST AS BAD OR WORSE than Sarah Palin's. I would comment somewhere else, but I am unaware of a place to do so. Just changed it! (The channel) Can't bear this woman!

Jodi K   November 12th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

You idiots whining about ACORN....

DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Minnesota does not have the same registration laws as your hillbiily states down south. ACORN is a nonentity in MN because we can register THE SAME DAY WE VOTE!!! So there is no voter fraud in MN. People also CANNOT BE PURGED from voter rolls... why do you think we vote Democratic for president in every election? Cause the REPUGNINTCANS cannot STEAL the Minnesota vote!

GO MN!! EVERY state should have registration laws like ours, then the republicans will not be able to steal ANY election EVER!

and everyone needs to back off us voting for a former comedian, California has an action actor for a govenor and the republican hero was a 2nd rate actor who was in WESTERNS!!! HAHAHA!!

OurnextPresident   November 12th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Al Franken in the recount process that will happen I bet will end up the winner and those doing the recount will say oh we found a couple 100,000 votes not counted .

Just watch and see its gonna happen.

Coleman like the rest of the Necons GOP need to be thrown out of office after this recount is over and counted fairly Coleman should be the loser.

Republican't   November 12th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

I live in Denial, MN

Vet from Texas   November 12th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Hey Al Franken will be alright. If he doesn't make it to congress, congress will get him back on the radio with the fairness doctrine. Which is the only way he could keep a radio show.

Paul   November 12th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Coleman is a typical Republican crook. He'll be joining Ted Stevens soon.

Vet from Texas   November 12th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Do you really want Al Franken?
I think he would be the one of the best things to happen for the republicans.

Levar Patterson   November 12th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

"This isn't about Norm Coleman or his wife. This is about Norm Coleman's political sugardaddy" – Al Franken

Comedy could be useful in politics... especially when it is used to show how corrupt these idiots are. GO AWAY NORM!!

Thomas   November 12th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Franken is a Snake!

Juan Grain   November 12th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

It won't be neccasary, Franken-Stien will win!!!

mark   November 12th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Can't believe anyone would vote for Franken. His rape jokes weren't funny – He's pathetic. He'll do and say anything to turn the election in his favor. Minnesota deserves better – Norm should win.

The Dress?   November 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Dont worry about a dress lady,worry about the mess you moron.

Catholic-mom-4-OBAMA   November 12th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

Since SO many of the FAR-RIGHT comments are about INVESTIGATIONS, why not throw Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, Rove and all the other WAR criminals, into the Courts at the Hague?! After all they violated the Geneva Convention and have sanctioned torture!

@ "The Dress".......... get over it. Who cares what Mrs. Obama wears, what's IMPORTANT is how President-elect governs!

So many petty people, get a life!

grahame   November 12th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Of course he welcomes an investigation since he knows that such a thing would take a long time with no result until after he's lost. in other words this is just another Republican scam.

Once you vote Black   November 12th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Who do you think said the following:
And I speak for other Republicans, other Republican governors also, they being willing also to, again, seize this opportunity that we have to progress this nation together, a united front.

Joe Banana   November 12th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

You guys think Coleman is dirty and we just elected a guy for President who was friends with the likes of Ayers, Rezko, Kahlidi. Isnt that like the pot calling the kettle black.[ no pun intended]

Syed Shamsuddoha   November 12th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

No a big thing. He took his share like any other senator or congressman does. So why is it a big deal now? Did Palin abuse her power? Sure she did. Did McCain abuse his power? Yes he did. Did McCain had extramarital affairs? Yes he did. So did former president Bill Clinton.

Another goof is Mr. Mike Huckabee. Mr. Huckabee tells the twisted lie that can help his party. What happened to Gretchen Carlson of Fox News that interviewed former British prime Minister Tony Blair just before the election? Gretchen Carlson did ask Tony Blair if Sarah Palin was to be compared with Margaret Thatcher (comparing a Kiwi Bird with a crow!!!). Gretchen really did want to make Sarah Palin a high profile, but Tony Blair dodged that question out. Remember, Tony Blair went to Iraq war with Mr. Bush without much merit? Gretchen was supposed to interview Tony Blair again on November 05 to know the comparison of Ms. Thatcher with Sarah Palin, but she did not do so because she herself became another laughing joke.

Let Mr. Coleman have his share like others. When the Democrats try to balance the budget, it's called socialism (by the Republicans); and when the Republicans eat up the whole economy, it cannot be judged. Remember, Republicans are the ones being paid for their lavish lifestyle by the NRA and they are the ones who possess all the guns and ammunition.

Cheers.

S

Nobama   November 12th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Al Franken is a waste.

Brian NYC   November 12th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

I dont know why there is a picture of Al there but he must have been telling a mean joke cause Bill is in the background cracking it up.

Scott Tucson   November 12th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

Franken is a lousy comedian and will surely make a lousy senator. In other words he's perfect as a democratic senator.

I rather see investigations into the fannie-mae and freddie-mac debacle and see where that leads too?

Lee   November 12th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Maybe republican voters will suceed in electing more than just one felon to the Senate.

Country First!

Milhouse van Houten   November 12th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Lies and the lying liars that tell them.Hey,that sounds like a good book
title,oh wait,it already is a good book title.

Sue   November 12th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Richard: it WAS brought up before the election.

Carmine Abbattiello   November 12th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

With the way they governed and the dirty tricks they pulled its hard to believe the Republicans got any votes. Morally corrupt and intellectually bankrupt, thats the GOP.

David   November 12th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Whatever happened to Congressman Rangel? All (Republicans and Democrats) should be held to the same account.

The Dress   November 12th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

About Michelle's Election Dress:

Yes it was ugly, but one more thing. It wasn't dignified and neither were the dangling earrings. Who is this character that's designing all her dresses? He's the designer from the edge of the earth.

Send him packing Michelle, this is not the time to "try newbies". Your fashions will be broadcast around the world on a daily basis. Get a stylist, and a good one. That red and black dress was thumbs down and distracted from the dignity of the moment. Hopefully you'll have a better stylist by the inagural.

Lolo   November 12th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Another Californian who thinks the Senate could be funnier.

Go Al.

Brendan   November 12th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Yes Marge, I think you just hit the head of the nail. Its not the democrat Al Franken who is making this Minnesota so laughable, but rather the republican candidate Michele Bachmann. How any district anywhere in the US could elect somebody that runs around say God came to her in a vision telling her to run for congress puzzles me. Then to be hypocritical enough to call others anti-American while acting like the perfect religous desciple of God makes it sickening to see her back in Washington.

julio   November 12th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Dirty politicians are in all parties, just look at former guv Spitzer and I registered dem btw.

Al Franken...stein   November 12th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Al Franken is a complete moron. I met him during my tour in Afghanistan, he's a really weird guy. I can't believe that Minnesoooootans would actually vote for "Stuart Smalley" just because he's a Dem........good luck if he wins, what a moron.......

Marge   November 12th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Everybody knows if you don't get enough votes to overcome the MInneapolis/StPaul area the republicans will getca....they re-elected Michele Bachman didn't they. And how she got elected the first time no body knows. With the mega church backing her, telling their members to vote for her and funnelling money to her guess she will.

And just think. Coleman had his majority in those counties, and the errors were found in those counties. All the republicans are saying that they are "finding" votes for Franken..well if those counties around Minn/St.Paul hadn't made all those "errors" in the first place they wouldn't have had to be corrected.

Brendan   November 12th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I see that the Republican party has not only lied about Franken in Minnesota, but they have a majority of the US believing it as well. If you think that Norm is more qualified than Franken, please say why. As a citizen of Minnesota, I have heard Al Franken speak and he knows just as much about the issues that matter as anybody. He ran a very honorable campaign and will make a great senator for this state when he wins the recount!

lil   November 12th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

These people people will do or say anything to ge elected. Now this
guy is taking money under the table.

wake up out there   November 12th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

how many times have we heard the same thing when someone is guilty.....i am innocent, bring on the investigation...the result is usually guilty as hel*

MG   November 12th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

The republican party seems to be a bunch of thugs and fearmongers these days. It's time for them to regroup in a big way. Maybe recruit some smart, honest, people with real family values, rather than faking values and criticizing intellegence, breaking laws and then trying to deflect blame onto someone else.

Jonathan M.   November 12th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

After reading the comments posted by ignorant people on CNN I'm not so sure the terrorists are the bad guys. I'm a White Anglo Saxon Protestant, but hey, after listening to you all, I'm moving to the Middle East after graduation, at least they're faithful to some extent and know about pride.

Barbara in NC   November 12th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Kick the slimey republican out.

Voter   November 12th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

There should be a Government run accounting firm and investigation for ALL elected positions/candidates!!

Jim Doyle   November 12th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Of course he's innocent! Just like Ted Stevens and Sarah Palin are innocent. Even after they're found guilty. He'll say he's innocent no matter what happens.

My Friends, let me tell you,   November 12th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

im going ice fishing with both these grumpy old men in the land of a thousand lakes.Cold beer,frozen bait and hot soup,what more could you want.

stephanie   November 12th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Coleman is another GOP loser...

how could Minnesota vote overwhelmngly for Obama yet vote so narrowly for Coleman who has done nothing noteworthy???

Gary   November 12th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Coleman didn't lie
Palin didn't lie
Stevens didn't lie
I guess in their eyes, ethics violations and abuse of power is acceptable.

Oh yeah
OJ didn't lie

Ethan   November 12th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Just another Republican idiot. Yes, he SHOULD be investigated immediately.

RJ from Philly   November 12th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Al Franken went from writing jokes to becoming a joke. If he had an ounce of humility, this self-righteous imposter would return to his role as Stuart Smalley so that the laughter he brings would be intentional.

Don B. from Texas   November 12th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Normie! Normie Crockett, king of the wild frontier!!

Matt   November 12th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

This is stupid just do the investigation and see what really happened. If we (democrats) are just accusing republicans of untrue events to win an election then that is just sad.

alvino   November 12th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Norm should be very careful about this moving forward immediately. If he is found in violation, the senate will remove him.

Johnny the Boy   November 12th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Change You Can Believe In

Jship   November 12th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

This is undoubtedly the funniest joke that Franken has ever come up with

This should be in the comics section ....... Oh it is, it's politics

greenfun   November 12th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

I want to know if Obama welcomes investigation into his finances.

Rob   November 12th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

Norm is sounding more and more like Gary Coleman,
Norm resign now and save spare us your incoherent ramblings.
You changed your party for Bush and now you are even more pathetic

Jackie in Dallas   November 12th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

By all means, investigate. I'm sure that the money has been well laundered by now, and his records spotless. At least, in that, he'll have done better than some of his GOP buddies.

Joseph   November 12th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

"...ordered corporate funds be funneled to Coleman — a potential violation of Senate ethics rules."

I don't understand the problem. Didn't corporate American and companies outside the US contribute heavily to Obama's campaign?

Anna, Missouri   November 12th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Isn't that the same thing Ted Stevens said?

Westwood girl   November 12th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

California votes that MInnesota make the Senate funnier.

Richard   November 12th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Get the investigation going. If this was brought up right BEFORE the last election it would look a lot more suspicious. There may be something to it.

ran   November 12th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Another Republican under investigation. I can only hope that Franken wins and we can move on from the past of elected officials who are not there for the people but their own need for power/greed. Democrats need to learn from this as well or they too will be thrown out.

Rick   November 12th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Norm Coleman, I am sure you'll be all for an investigation until you actually win your recount and then you will use your power to squash any investigation. Sarah Palin was all for an investigation into Troopergate until there was an investigation into Troopergate. Then she did a tap dance on the investigation. Norm, I'm sure you're no better.

mitch   November 12th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

INVESTIGATIONS ARE WARRANTED.

DICK BROWN   November 12th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

whatever the outcome in this senate race, everyone who voted
for frankenshould be ashamed. you have made minnesota
the laughing stock of the country

Larry   November 12th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Is this the same Coleman who was a butler for Duke and Duke until he made his fortune in orange juice futures. Wasn't Al Franken aslo involved in that?

Bill   November 12th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

"The fact that a United States Senator is being used as a tool"

Well, this part at least is true, and has been for awhile now.

Jack   November 12th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Can't believe it's not worthy? A pretty transparently slimy pol is poised to take one of the last 2 senate seats up for grabs, in the midst of allegations and investigations, and you don't think it's newsworthy?

I guess. It's only control of the senate at stake, right?

tanner, ca   November 12th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Yes, please let the investigation move foward as Cheryl states.

I expect that we'll find out the truth in fact it is these charges that are slanderous, unethical and despicable. What else would I expect from the accusors?

Terry   November 12th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Will the U.S. Senator who has never taken money, never voted to help a donor, never flown on a donor's private jet, blah, blah, blah, please stand-up. Folks, why would anyone go into public office? – "For the Money!".

brenda from charleston sc   November 12th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

we, the people, tend to elect those that we feel are most like us. well we, the people, are crooked, greedy, disrespectful and liars. yep, you wanted them cause they are like you and now you got em.

California Girl   November 12th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Be careful what you ask for, Norm – you may get it.

Allen in Hartwell, GA   November 12th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

The fact that a United States Senator is being used as a tool of extortion by private parties should be of concern to all Minnesotans."

What about when the extortion is by a corporation or business group, or a lobbiest?

teesha   November 12th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Finally the truth could come out

Richard Rohde   November 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Has the Alliance for a Better Minnesota asked for a probe of ACORN or is it a union funded, ACORN group itself?

Vincent Connecticut   November 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Franken will do anything to get elected- "finding" extra votes for him and now having trumped up charges brought against Sen Coleman. If, God forbid, Franken is deemed the winner, every Minnesotan who voted for Franken should be so ashamed and Minnesota will be the laughing stock of the US. Franken is unqualified, undeserving and totally despicable!

jim   November 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I wannna know why all these people are coming out of their closets.
Palin,Edwards,mark foley, splitzer . Why?

facts are facts   November 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

What's the big fuss being corrupt is a badge of honor in American politics. Look at your present administration that makes Al Capone look like a choir boy.

Jeff   November 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Here come all the comments about Republican crooks, and Dems can do no wrong.

Investigate it, show there was no wrong doing, and move forward.

Muddy Republican   November 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

As if anyone would believe a Republican Senator would be Corrupt!

Rockford   November 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Don't really have an opinion on MN politics... but I'm really confused that Al Franken could even be in the running... really? I don't know how bad Coleman could be but wow... kinda like electing Rush... scary!

KJL   November 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

That's what they all say.

Todd   November 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

How come this story isn't about Sarah Palin? I thought CNN only did stories about Palin now.

MD, TX   November 12th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Franken was a horrible comic. He will be a worse Senator. Minnesota deserves better.

Amy   November 12th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I can't wait until the recount is done. I hope Coleman loses. I've contacted his office several times to express my views. He doesn't seem to represent me. Thank God we have Amy Klobuchar!

Minnesota Democrat   November 12th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

If Sen. Coleman has nothing to hide, let this thing be put to BROAD DAYLIGHT SO ALL MINNESOTANS CAN SEE– And by the way, I hope Sen Coleman realizes that about 50% did not vote for him- Needs to ask himself why?

Chuck   November 12th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

'Tis the season for Democrats. Unfortunately, a few evil Republicans have slipped through. The likes of Michelle Bachmann, congresswoman from Minnesota and Paul Broun, congressman from Georgia should have been defeated. Those two are represent divisiveness, fear-mongering, racism and bigotry of the worst kind. Maybe the voters of Minnesota and Georgia will decide differently two years from now.

Vic   November 12th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

It's about time some of these republicans are being investigated!
I'm sick of their politics. Slime and lies all across the USA from the party that is supposed to be so consertative.... they make me sick.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

CNN GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!!!!

THE ELECTION IS OVER AND OBAMA WON SO YOU SHOULD BE HAPPY!!!!!!!

ARE YOU FOR FRANKEN TO!!!!!!!!!

THAT WOULD BE SOMEONE I BET YOU WOULD SUPPORT.

ANYTHING YOU POST BAD ABOUT OBAMA, REID, PELOSI ARE FRANKEN MUST BE OFF LIMITS!!!!!!!!!

WHAT HAPPEN TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH?????

Joe Banana   November 12th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Easy solution, if Coleman is cleared he retains the seat, if not, Franken gets it. But if Coleman is cleared, Franken needs to shut his big pie hole and go back to being not funny forever!

david   November 12th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Coleman/Stevens 2012!!

Vicki5   November 12th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Someone should tell Coleman, that line doesn't work with us anymore. There are likely many more secrets yet to surface in the secretive republican camp. Thanks be to God.

Alisha, MN   November 12th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Please step-down Norm, we Minnesotans have had enough of you!

WAW   November 12th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Stephens still thinks he's innocent. Republican, Christian Right, Wall Street Patsy, Conservative, Innocent... Sure!

Kay1111   November 12th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I think Coleman's crooked. I hope he loses the election. Franken's an honest guy and he cares. Go Al!!

Maggie from Virginia   November 12th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

"eager for any probe to move forward immediately"

That's the same thing Palin and Stevens said.

Frank Lee   November 12th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

That's similar to what Gary Hart said. Be careful what you wish for, Normie.

Jessie's Mommy Jacksonville, FL   November 12th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Go Al!!! Kick back and relax, it will be over soon!!

Irony   November 12th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

You can see my finances, so long as we don't count any more votes...

Richard   November 12th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

The tactics being used by the loony left here are pretty sad. Hitler would be so proud. What they couldn't win, they'll steal. And throw accusations and dirt all around at the same time. If this was truly an issue it should have come up and been dealt with by the Obamedia during the election. Not now.

Chuck   November 12th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

there's got to be a joke in there somewhere...

GO, FRANKEN!

H-ROD   November 12th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

AL WON , ALL THIS IS , IS ANOTHER REPUBLICAN TRYING TO STEAL ANOTHER ELECTION DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH IT FIGHT THEM FIGHT THEM AT EVERY TURN DON'T GIVE IN LIKE AL GORE OR JOHN KERRY THATS WHAT THEY ARE COUNTING ON TO BEAT A BULLY YOU HAVE TO STAND UP AND FIGHT WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE THATS WHATS THE REPUBLICANS ARE BULLIES AND CHEATS !!!! --- (((YES OBAMA DID)))---

H-ROD   November 12th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

AL WON , ALL THIS IS , IS ANOTHER REPUBLICAN TRYING TO STEAL ANOTHER ELECTION DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH IT FIGHT THEM FIGHT THEM AT EVERY TURN DON'T GIVE IN LIKE AL GORE OR JOHN KERRY THATS WHAT THEY ARE COUNTING ON TO BEAT A BULLY YOU HAVE TO STAND UP AND FIGHT WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE THATS WHATS THE REPUBLICANS ARE BULLIES AND CHEATS !!!! --- (((YES OBAMA DID)))---

DAVID   November 12th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

THIS SHOULD BE IN THE BAILOUT BLOG BUT IT WAS CLOSED. DETROIT HAS BEEN IN BED WITH THE OIL INDUSTRY FOREVER. THE AUTO INDUSTRY SHOULD SEEK LOANS FROM SHELL, BP, CHEVRON AND PHILLIPS PETROLEUM AND NOT THE TAX PAYER.
BOTH PARTIES HAVE BEEN DRAGGING THEIR FEET WITH INNOVATING NEW ENERGY SOURCES, LOW MPG AND OVERSIZED HEAVY CARS AND TRUCKS.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

JUST WATCH THE CROOKED PEOPLE WORK UNTIL FRANKEN WINS SOMEHOW.

HOW ARE AMERICANS SUPPOSE TO BE HONEST WHEN ARE SO CALLED LEADERS ARE CROOKED!!!!!!!!!

joseph   November 12th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

why is it that NO Democrat can lose an election without a lawsuit following, or allegations of wrong doing?
Yall sound like a person who didnt get the job they applied for so instead of moving on, you decide to sue the potential employer for discrimination. PATHETIC.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

FRANKEN IS A LOSER!!!!!!!!

WATCH THE DEMS SOME HOW PUT HIM IN OFFICE!!!!!!

I GUARANTEE YOU IF FRANKEN WAS WINNING BY A FEW HUNDRED VOTES THE ELECTION WOULD BE OVER!!!

AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   November 12th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Speaking of comedy...

I gotta US$ 100.00 sez in the next nine months hundreds of newborns will bear the name Barack.

Hussein…not so much.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

COMEON CNN

JUST WHAT AMERICA NEEDS TO GO ALONG WITH THE OTHER LOSERS.

OBAMA, REID, PELOSI, AND NOW FRANKEN.

WOW AMERICA YOU MIGHT AS WELL GO FAR IT ALL!!!!!!!!!!

carol   November 12th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Let the truth be known!

George   November 12th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

I swear, the democrats would vote for the devil if he were a democrat! Al Franken is the biggest liar, cheat, big-mouthed idiot, not looking out for Minnesota's best interests at all, and the people still vote for him! Stupidity at all levels!! Now Nobama wants to chase Bin Laden to hell and back (with your tax dollars) knowing full well that man has layers of people hiding him out in caves in unfriendly countries! I wish I had control over my own taxes!!! Before Nobama gets through with us, we'll all wish we had a paycheck because he's going to tax us through our noses! (but, he said he wouldn't, hahahaha for all the fools that believed him!)

Nancy   November 12th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

CNN gives Sarah Palin extraordinary coverage to the detriment of covering other goveners with time deserved in the media because of their years of fine politacal devotion. It seems you are her cheerleader and spokesperson. I had hoped after the election we would get back to hearing from the many hardworking and well spoken goveners and finally let go of Palin who you gave obsessive coverage to during the election. Please become the balanced CNN that earned my devoation until lately.

linus   November 12th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Funny how he didn't want an investigation BEFORE election day...

Johnnyboy   November 12th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

"Tell Palin, being cute won't be enough in 2012."

PUMBU: I read this article three times and see no mention of Sarah Palin. So what is the point to your comment? She lost. It's over. Move on.

KC   November 12th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Minnesota really needs to get a grip on their candidates. What a joke.

Trust him?? No WAY   November 12th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Anyone else find it ironic that Bill Clinton is in this photo – LAUGHING!?!?

Whenever I see photo of Nixon I think, "I am not a crook". And when I see a photo of Clinton, I think, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman". I will always will see them as the same....

Spencer/NY to VA   November 12th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Another crooked GOP politician. Kick them all out of Washington.

Senators and Governors   November 12th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

watching the Palin interview with Blitzer. She is bulls'ing through this interview. Man o man, I am so glad the she didn't become our VP- she's such a space-cadet!

Proud to be American   November 12th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Get it (investigation) done! then we will the truth of the matter....

Tim   November 12th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

ZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Betty the maid   November 12th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Yes...ah, am I online? ah, hello oh...ok
Ah, I would just like to say that I am sick and tired of that red neck bimbo, Sarah Palin. Her 15 minutes of fame ended last week. She is desperate, I am sooooo serious. What a desperate sad bitter old b-i-t-c-h. Please freaking twat...shut up, just shut your freaking face, shut it now. Please pleas eplease dear god make that douche bag go away!!!!! I swear she is making a fool of her self

Betty

Proud to be American   November 12th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Well let the investigation begin.... the truth will make you free ;0)

truth   November 12th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

voters are stupid to vote for Reps at this time... you are who you voted for this time around....

tmdcedar   November 12th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Only a Republican would welcome an investigation. Dems never do anything wrong so they always deny deny deny.ala Bill Clinton?

HouseDiva   November 12th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

GO FRANKEN!

angela   November 12th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Wasn't it Shakespeare that said "thou doth protest too much"?

Michael, Houston Texas   November 12th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

If a guy is openly saying, go ahead with the investigation, he might be telling the truth. Most people who have something to hide usually will not be that open to investigations

GET REAL.   November 12th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Cheney and Biden are meeting soon... but if Dick invites you to go hunting, Joe, run for your life!!!!

Obama Victim   November 12th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

market has now lost 1400 points since the election......thanks Barry

paul (staunch Moderate)   November 12th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Franken's campaign should have left this sleeping dog lie. Once it was brought to voter's attention you should have left it and distanced yourself from the Alliance group. The Alliance brought it to the Senate Ethics Committee, don't harp on it. This type of "politics" leaves a bad taste in the electorates collective mouth.

Jon   November 12th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

This probably would have been more effective BEFORE the election.

Greg PA   November 12th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Why do you hate Palin? What did she do that was so bad. Is every one that runs republican bad. This is like politcal partyisum. What did she do to you. What did she do to be trashed the way she has. Or are you just so full of hate that you have to unleash it on her?

Tell me what she did that makes her this totaly bad person. I can under stand not liking her views but you act like she is the Anticrist. I am not talking about politacal views I will state that twice because I bet that is all you got and if you think that your views are right and that is it then you are the problem. I was not happy to se her run but this is just dumb.

One more thing If you want to bring the people togeather insulting them is not the way to do it.

3strikes   November 12th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

oh yea, destroy evidence before the investigation starts, then welcome it. so this guy will be a part of the new failed nobama administration. it'll probably be less than 2 years when the people that voted for nobama, start to turn against him. then the new slogan in 2012 will be "nobama nicht ändern, wir brauchen Palin Macht", and people will overwhelmingly vote for palin power. obama will drag the economy and everything else down with it, because of his so called "good judgement"

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

THATS GREAT INVESTIGATE THIS BUT DO NOT INVESTIGATE ANYTHING OF OBAMA!!!!!!!

Anne E.   November 12th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

CAN WE PLEASE STOP TALKING ABOUT SARAH PALIN???
(The relevance to this comment in this post holds as much relevance as Sarah Palin does to politics, and particularly the presidency.)

Kevin   November 12th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Oh, come on now....a liberal questioning campaign financing after what we saw from ACORN and Obama???????????? Cut me a break. If the people of minnesota elect this fruitcake, we are doomed.

Marnie   November 12th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Norm Coleman used to be a democrat. Why shouldn't we believe he is spreading these stories only to make him look thwarted by the terrible group coming into power. Tough tonails, Norm. Too bad you didn't switch sides again.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW   November 12th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

JUST WHAT AMERICA NEEDS TO GO ALONG WITH THE OTHER LOSERS.

OBAMA, REID, PELOSI, AND NOW FRANKEN.

WOW AMERICA YOU MIGHT AS WELL GO FAR IT ALL!!!!!!!!!!

anna   November 12th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Release those records...
but if I can speak two cents about Sarah-missed the cutoff.

ahem...
hey, LARRY KING, FOX, ABC, CBS and OPRAH have all ASKED Sarah on the show.
She isnt knocking down their doors for the attention!

Lets face it, as long as she is not threatening the Dem candidates, she is one of their greatest allies (kind of like John McCain as I recall over the years). She defeated GOP corruption in her state, in just a wee bit of time as Governor, remember? I have been waiting for the Dems to do that all my years as a Voter.
Believe me...it will not be long before the Obama Camp is saying...
GO SARAH! and the REPUBLICANS are saying "Shut the >>>>UP!"

She is fearless and quite smart, actually.
Lethal mix.
It would be very STUPID of anyone in any Party to underestimate her, actually.

Ian Minneapolis, MN   November 12th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Looks like he has nothing to hide...I just wish would show more concerned about mental health issues in Minnesota....

Minnesota   November 12th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

This coming from the guy who stated he'd have conceded the election had he been in Franken's position in order to save the tax payors of Minnesota 90K.

NO POLITICIAN RUNNING WOULD DO THAT!!!! And if they did they have no business running a campaign.

This guy needs to go and fast. I am sorry we still have to deal with Bachman, hopefully Norm is out.

John Anthony, Minneapolis, MN   November 12th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Coleman, WE welcome you to step down!

tv   November 12th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I can't recall any public servant as of late saying their not guilty that hasn't been convicted. Maybe it's me?

PUMBU   November 12th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Tell Palin, being cute won't be enough in 2012.

Liberal and Proud of It   November 12th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

I hope Franken eventually turns out to be the winner in a recount. Franken seems smart and sincere, unlike his opponent. He would provide some clever comments to the political dialog. And, the nation needs to stamp out Conservatism wherever it can be found. Conservatism is a much greater threat to our future than is terrorism.

NYer   November 12th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I cant believe this is news worthy.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   November 12th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

He thinks he's clean. Given that he has the audacity to say that he is the winner despite the counting process to going on. I say anyone who is that pompus should be under some scrutitny. Let the process finish.

Cheryl from Minnesota   November 12th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Let the investigation move forward. I would be very interested in finding out the truth.

Al Frankenstein   November 12th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

I'm so close I can almost smell it.

PUMBU   November 12th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Palin, Palin, Palin???? Can someone remind her that 15 minutes of fame are over? People have no time for her now, she needs to be smart, she is commiting her career suicide. Next time(2012) being cute won't be enough.

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