Coleman Makes an Appearance on the Hill

By Perry Bacon Jr.
There's war and peace, and then there's Minnesota recount.

Former senator Norm Coleman, still in post-election limbo as he challenges Democrat Al Franken's lead in the still-undecided Minnesota Senate race, joined his former Senate colleagues on Capitol Hill today for their weekly luncheon. Looking to prevent Democrats from making it to 59 seats, Senate Republicans have been strong backers of Coleman's continued legal fight, donating thousands of dollars to help him pay for his legal fees.

Coleman, who trails Franken by 225 votes, said he has made occasional appearances in Washington throughout his legal battle, hoping both to maintain support from his colleagues and to keep himself apprised of political events. Asked by reporters on his way into the the luncheon about his prospects, he said, "I expect to be ahead when all is said and done."

But he admitted the legal process, which is expected to drag on for a few more weeks, has been draining.

"This process is Tolstoyesque," Coleman said. "It seems to have gone on forever."