There’s something a little perverse about getting this into a race that’s still nearly two years out but the growing size of Senate campaigns coupled with the potential explosiveness of this race causes us all to get a little excited. Coleman’s gotta go down, but who can take him out? That’s the big question.
To that end we will be featuring the big contenders each in their own individual post that gives an overview of the candidate and my personal analysis.
There are two tiers of possible candidates right now, the heavy-weights and the under-dogs. In the latter category we have the following three possibilities (as I see them):
Obviously a few other names could get tossed into that group but I see these three as the only serious candidates yet to indicate interest (although even Mee seems like a stretch as far as serious interest goes).
And in the heavy-weights category we have the following three gentlemen:
- Mike Ciresi
- Dean Johnson
- Al Franken
Some may argue that Johnson should not be in this category, but I disagree. I will feature each of these candidates in the above order, so stay tuned.
Loading ...
I don’t get why everyone keeps saying this is early to be talking about this race. Two years ago I know Amy Klobuchar and others were thinking or already planning to run. If we don’t have several people committed by April, I’ll be concerned.
I like that finally we have state legislators stepping up to run. I’d much rather have someone who has worked hard in the state legistlature step up. I think any other approach is a losing one.
I’m really wary of Al Franken as our candidate. He’s a smart funny guy that can tell a good story or two, but beyond that, i’m not sure if he’s senate material. I”m a little surprised at how rare it is to hear anyone on either side of the isle talk about whether or not he woudl be a good senator.
Both Dean Johnson and Atkins intrigue me. I was a fan of Dean back when he was in the state senate, but his not being re elected does raise serious questions. Atkins on the other hand seems interesting, but i don’t know enough about him to have much of an opinion yet.
Not a big fan of any of the heavyweights. I think Tarryl is being prepped for a run at Bachmann in the 6th in 08.
Rep Atkins intrigues me as well. I have talked to him several times, including a very light hearted exchange at the state fair a few years ago. I have found him to be very engaging and a very good Rep. Worst case though, perhaps he takes a run at Kline.
Anyone have an inkling that R.T. Rybak take the plunge as a candidate?