Senate Candidate Franken Speaks in Rochester to 300 Supporters
02/20/2007
Paul Munnis
The Rocheser Democrat
(Rochester, MN) - Candidate Al Franken arrived in Rocehster yesterday to a large reception of Democrats who welcomed his appearance. The crowd was estimated at 300 people who attended his rally and the press coverage was obvious to all present.
Franken spoke about the reasons that he is running for office, the inspiration he received from Tim Walz's win across the first Congressional District, the need to replace Sen. Norm Coleman, and about humor in politics.
The news media tended to use the description "comedian" or "entertainer" to describe Al Franken when he announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate race last week, while his campaign favored "award-winning satirist."
If elected, Franken would be the fourth consecutive Jew to hold the seat, going back to 1978, with the election of Republican Rudy Boschwitz. He was followed by the late Sen. Paul Wellstone, a DFLer. The current occupant, Republican Norm Coleman, also is Jewish.
"I don't think Minnesota is quite ready to elect a Gentile to this seat," Franken said, laughing.
Franken has appeared as keynote speaker and as a featured speaker at political rallys held in Rochester during the 2004 election period and he has always drawn large crowds. He has the name recognition already among Rochester Democrats as his appearance proved yesterday. Now Franken is working to turn that into votes and his wry sense of humor may lend levity to what has become a grim view of government for some people.
Al Franken reminds Democrats that they have to lighten up, that Democrats are doing very well at the polls, and that Democrat Party sponsored programs are of great value to America. The old adage of "Leave 'em Laughing," has a place in politics and it makes people feel good about their participation in politcs and the sensibilities of their candidates.
The blog site "Dry Bones," has won awards for the application of humor to political problems. A link is provided by clicking: HERE.