One Getting In; Trying to Get One Out

Two morning tidbits:

Minnesota: Commentator Al Franken will challenge Norm Coleman. Previewing the satiric wit he will bring to the campaign:

Franken expects his years in New York to be an issue in the campaign but has had a ready line as he promotes himself to Minnesota audiences: "If I do run against Norm Coleman in '08, I'll be the only New York Jew in the race who actually grew up in Minnesota."

Minnesotans seem to prefer candor and conviction over any particular ideology. Coleman is milquetoast. Franken speaks his mind unapologetically. Coleman's camp will try to twist Franken's words, no doubt, but Minnesotans should see through it pretty readily.

Oregon: Steve Novick at Willamette Week has the game plan for beating Gordon Smith. (Hat tip: MyDD to BlueOregon) This is an excellent and thorough read that obliterates Gordon Smith's record. Take a glance - especially if your name is Earl Blumenauer.