Franken Not Expected In Washington Today
Franken, a Democrat, yesterday was certified as the winner of the recount battle with incumbent Republican Norm Coleman by just 225 votes. But as we wrote about yesterday, Coleman is expected to bring a lawsuit as soon as today to challenge the results based on several disputed rulings by the state canvassing board.
Several top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, have said they believe Franken now is the winner, but Senate Republicans have threatened to filibuster any attempt to seat him until the legal challenges have been resolved.
But it does not look like that showdown will happen today when the Senate convenes at noon ET. Last night, Reid's spokesman Jim Manley said there would not be an effort to seat Franken today. And Senate Democratic staff on Capitol Hill told CBS News' John Nolen today that they don't expect Franken in Washington today and that he will remain in Minnesota.
However, as CBS News Political Director Steve Chaggaris reports, there still could be some drama today involving Roland Burris, Illinois Gov. Rod Blogojevich's pick to replace President-elect Barack Obama in the Senate. Senate Democrats have been steadfast in saying they will not seat him, but Burris is in Washington. "I'm presenting myself as the legally appointed senator from the state of Illinois. It is my hope and prayer that they recognize that the appointment is legal," Burris told CBS News' "The Early Show" this morning.