The Fairmont Sentinel is arguably the most conservative newspaper among the First's many weeklies and double-handful of dailies. When its editors scold Norm Coleman for his opportunistic calls for no recount, that's saying something.
As the following editorial observes, it's hard to believe they're writing this:
This newspaper endorsed U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman, a Republican, but it cannot agree with his pronouncement Wednesday that he has "won" his race against Democrat Al Franken and Independent Dean Barkley. With more than 2.9 million ballots cast, Coleman received a slim 438 votes more than Franken. The incumbent suggested Franken forego a recount and let the race end.
But that ignores the law, which provides for automatic recounts when the margin is so close.
Franken told Minnesota Public Radio on Thursday that "candidates don't get to decide when an election's over - voters do."
Franken added that if the recount determines he lost, then "I'll be the first to congratulate Senator Coleman."
It's hard to believe we're writing this, but it's clear that Franken - known for his over-the-top humor and partisan antics - is the one acting with class in this serious situation. [emphasis added]
Voters, indeed, deserve to know the outcome of a recount. It's not up to those who may or may not be the winner.
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