MINNEAPOLIS, June 15 (UPI) -- Comedy writer and performer Al Franken won't rule out running for the U.S. Senate as a Minnesota Democrat, but says he'd hate to lose his radio show.
Speaking to the New York Times at a Democratic fundraiser in his home state of Minnesota, Franken said his Air America talk show appears to be growing in popularity, and 2008 is a way off.
"I am not sure that I am running yet," he said. "Part of the calculus is where the radio show goes. I don't want to leave them in the lurch."
Franken has suggested he may move his show to Minnesota sometime next year.
The Democratic Party has no qualms about endorsing him.
"Al is no better or no worse, no more or less qualified, that anyone else who has expressed interest in running in 2008, although that is a long way away," said John Van Hecke, campaign manager for the Minnesota House Democratic caucus. "Al says what a lot of people are thinking, but says it in a way that is a lot funnier than almost anyone."
