Coleman taking hits while pondering run for governor
Former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman says he'll decide whether to run for governor soon, perhaps by the end of the month.
Coleman says a lot of people have encouraged him to run, but he's still reflecting on a potential candidacy.
Coleman is also hearing from Republicans who don't want to see him jumping into the race. Coleman spoke Saturday at a Senate District 15 GOP fundraiser in St. Cloud, and during the question and answer session, he got an earful from a critic who'd prefer a fresh face.
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"I do not want to see you run," said Doug Blaine of St. Cloud. "A lot of people are going to come out who haven't been involved before. If we put you at the top of this ticket, that is spitting in the face of those people."
Coleman shot back, stressing that he was not there to make a campaign speech or debate anyone. He also said that he's heard other opinions.
"There are many people who have deep concerns about this state who have looked at the service I've provided and feel good about that service," Coleman said. "I hear your concern. I also listen to others. And ultimately, I'll pray about it, and I'll talk to my family about it, and then I'll figure out what to do."
Following his speech, Coleman talked about his critics. He said he wasn't phased by a harsh newspaper opinion piece, in which former state GOP party chairman Ron Eibensteiner urged him not to run.
"I think we'd all be better served if instead of attacking another candidate or potential candidate or individual, that we articulate on our positive vision and challenge the other side's vision," Coleman said. "If I were to step into this race, that's what I'd be doing."
Here's Coleman's speech.
Here's the exchange between Blaine and Coleman.
Here's a brief interview with Coleman following his speech.