Franken declares victory

Here is Democrat Al Franken’s statement late Monday night after a three judge panel ruled that he has won the Minnesota Senate race over Republican Norm Coleman.

“Franni and I couldn’t be happier, because today, after a lengthy and careful trial scrutinizing our lengthy and careful recount, the three-judge panel has declared a winner in the 2008 Senate election here in Minnesota.

“I am honored and humbled by this close victory, and I’m looking forward to getting to work as soon as possible.

“The campaign for this Senate seat has been long and expensive. But the fight ahead, the fight to rebuild our economy and repair our broken health care system and restore our standing in the world – that’s a fight we must win. It’s a fight we must win by setting aside partisan gamesmanship and working together.

“My role in that fight will be to work every day with Senators from both parties to serve the state I love, because restoring America’s promise is going to be a big job. And it’s long past time we got to work.”

The race, however, doesn’t appear to be over. Coleman has already vowed to appeal the case to the Minnesota Supreme Court.

jeremy.jacobs@digital-stage.thehill.com