Summary

Aside from attacks from the DeHumorizer, Franken’s next challenge along the campaign trail was the lack of support he received from establishment Democrats, “personified by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senator Chuck Schumer, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC)” (100). In what felt like “a hostile job interview,” the duo candidly explained their reservations about Franken and his history as the class clown (101). Despite this hurdle, Franken prepared vigorously for his campaign by fundraising, meticulously analyzing polls, learning as much as possible about his state’s issues, and developing relationships with unions, environmental organizations, and progressive advocacy groups. When it came time for Franken’s first campaign commercial, he capitalized on a recent letter from his fourth-grade teacher Mrs. Molin congratulating him on his candidacy. Mrs. Molin delivered a heartwarming performance with her “adorable seventy-four-year-old Minnesota accent,” both praising Franken...