6. Minnesota (R): We can't believe we're writing this but comedian Al Franken (D) now has a better than 50-50 shot at winding up in the Senate next January. Sen. Norm Coleman's (R) decision to abandon his negative ads hasn't moved the numbers perceptibly, and it appears as though independent Dean Barkley is taking more votes from Coleman than Franken. Coleman has shown tremendous electoral resiliency in his career, however, so we don't count him out -- ever. An absolutely amazing race that will be studied by political junkies for years to come. (Previous ranking: 7)
The feature examines statements made by Minnesota politicians and checks them for accuracy. Based on data analysis, document reviews and interviews with non-partisan analysts, statements are rated either true, false or inconclusive. PoliGraph is a collaboration between Minnesota Public Radio News and the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
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