Coleman says “Franken is no Obama” in fundraising solicitation….
Just hours after congratulating President Obama for becoming the 44th President of the United States, Republican Norm Coleman is now pointing out the differences between Obama and Democrat Al Franken. In a fundraising letter to supporters entitled "The difference between Obama and Franken", Coleman wrote this:
Today marks an historic occasion for each and every American, from all backgrounds, all political philosophies and all walks of life. We all wish our new President well, and we will support him when we agree with him and be the voice of the loyal opposition when we do not.
Unfortunately, the kind of change that President Barack Obama brings to Washington is worlds apart from the kind of change that Al Franken is seeking here in Minnesota.
Barack Obama won a majority of our nation's votes fair and square.
Al Franken had to change the rules of the game to overturn our victory.
Barack Obama was elected based on the principle of one person - one vote.
Al Franken's lead exists because some votes were counted twice, while others weren't counted at all.
Franken's coordinated attempt to silence voices must not stand. But it might, unless I hear from you soon.
Meanwhile, Franken's campaign issued a statement congratulating Obama:
Create a More Connected Minnesota
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Today, President Obama made clear what we all know: the challenges we face are significant, and change won't happen overnight. But today, we are one nation united and ready to get to work, with a President ready to lead us. Like so many others, I have been inspired by our new President to look towards the future with optimism, and with the knowledge that there is nothing we can't accomplish together. The next few years will call for bold action and courage on the part of our leaders and our citizens. And I know that, with all of us working together, we will meet that call.
For those living under a rock, Minnesota's long-running U.S. Senate race is still being sorted out in the courts. Oh, and there were a bunch of court filings today.
Update: The Political Animal is reporting that Franken is also raising money off of the inauguration.