Franken's not running in Minnesota

Contrary to reports, here's the story from the Star Tribune:

After much fanfare and radio hoopla, comedian and talk-radio host Al Franken announced on his radio show today that he will not run for Minnesota's open U.S. Senate seat in 2006.

The seat is being vacated by Democrat Mark Dayton, who announced Wednesday that he will not seek election to a second term.

"I am not running for Senate in 2006. Minnesotans are serious about politics and it would be silly," Franken said.

Franken suggested that he would still consider running against Sen. Norm Coleman in 2008.

Citing Minnesota politicians Walter Mondale, Hubert Humphery and Paul Wellstone, Franken said he was not ready to leave Air America Radio network.

"I would love to follow in their footsteps (but) I believe in honoring my commitments," Franken said. "I agreed to do two more years on Air America Radio."