Franken holds D.C. fundraiser

Al Franken
Al Franken held a fundraiser in Washington D.C. over the weekend. He is in nation's capitol to celebrate Barack Obama's inauguration.
MPR Photo/Bill Alkofer

Democrat Al Franken hosted an inaugural brunch yesterday in Washington D.C. to raise money for legal fees associated with his Senate recount.

Franken spokewoman Jess McIntosh says she doesn't know how much Franken raised, but the luncheon reportedly cost $1,000 a plate.

McIntosh said Franken is in Washington to celebrate Barack Obama's inauguration, and the fundraiser is just one small part of his trip.

"Al is spending five days attending the inauguration in D.C., and he held a brunch fundraiser last Sunday," said McIntosh. "But the five days are really focused on the events surrounding the inauguration, visits like he made to Walter Reed and a few meetings as he prepares to represent Minnesota in the Senate."

There are a number of Minnesota-sponsored celebrations taking place tomorrow, and McIntosh says Franken will likely attend some of those events. He then plans to return to Minnesota where the results of the Senate recount are being challenged in court.

This is Franken's first trip to Washington since the state Canvassing Board certified his 225 vote lead over Republican Norm Coleman.

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