Watch CBS News

Franken Rival Exits Minn. Senate Race

Democrat Mike Ciresi is dropping out of the race for U.S. Senate, saying he doesn't think he can win the party's endorsement.

Ciresi has been trailing former comedian Al Franken, who has lined up the support of major unions and has raised millions more dollars. Ciresi recently announced he would loan $2 million of his own money to his campaign.

Ciresi is best known as the chief litigator in the state of Minnesota's successful 1998 lawsuit against Big Tobacco. He, Franken and college professor Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer have been the major candidates vying to take on Republican Sen. Norm Coleman in November.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.