Statements on Minnesota Senate
The following statements were released today in reaction to the news that the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled in favor of Al Franken as the winner of the Senate race, as well as Norm Coleman's subsequent concession.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.):
"I congratulate Al Franken on a hard-earned and long-awaited election victory. I welcome him as my new Senate colleague from Minnesota."I respect Norm Coleman for what I'm sure was a very difficult decision. He had the right to pursue a legal appeal, but he chose to do the right thing for Minnesota. Norm was my Senate colleague for two years. Although on opposite sides of the aisle, we often worked together on issues affecting Minnesota, in particular securing quick federal support for rebuilding the 35W Bridge. Norm is a dedicated public servant. As a Senator, he took to heart his duty to represent and serve the people of Minnesota. I wish him the best.
"I also thank my staff for their incredible work doing double duty for the past six months. I am very proud of the work they did during a tough time."
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.):
"I know a thing or two about close elections, and I appreciate both that Norm Coleman fought hard throughout his race and recount, and that he is now stepping aside and letting the people of Minnesota have the full representation they deserve."I enjoyed my time working with Norm Coleman in the United States Senate, and wish him the best."
Speaker Nancy Pelosi:
"I congratulate Senator-elect Al Franken on his long and hard-fought victory. Minnesota now has the full representation in the Senate that its residents deserve. I look forward to working with Senator-elect Franken as the New Direction Congress works to turn the economy around by reforming our health care system and leading America toward an effective and affordable clean energy future."
RNC Chairman Michael Steele:
"I am deeply disappointed in the decision made by the state Supreme Court, and I share the frustration of Minnesota's voters. At the core of our democracy lies two concrete principles: No valid vote should go uncounted and all votes should be treated equally. Sadly, those principles were not adhered to during this election. While I would have proudly stood behind Norm Coleman had he chosen to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, I know that his decision to withdraw from this race was not an easy one, but one that he felt was the best decision for the people of Minnesota. For the last six years, Norm represented the people of Minnesota with distinction, earning a much deserved reputation as one of the hardest-working members of Congress. I, on behalf of all Republicans, thank him for his service and will miss his leadership in Washington."