Franken opposes bailout bill

He blames Coleman, Bush for financial mess, and says he would have rejected the bailout, but declines to fault those who voted in favor.

Star Tribune

Last update: October 2, 2008 - 8:20 PM

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FRANKEN OPPOSES BAILOUT BILL

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Al Franken had harsh words for the economic rescue bill that passed the Senate on Wednesday night, calling it a "sacrifice at the altar of financial mismanagement" and a "terrible end to a terrible presidency."

Franken said he would have voted against the compromise bill and held out for additional oversight, re-regulation of markets and foreclosure aid for the ailing housing market.

Franken said the vote was a "tough call -- that's why I'm not blaming anyone for this vote." However, Franken did assign special blame to his GOP rival, Sen. Norm Coleman -- who voted for passage -- for having supported Bush administration economic policies.

Coleman spokesman Mark Drake said Franken's opposition to the bailout bill "demonstrates how uncompromising he is. He would rather see this fail because it doesn't have absolutely everything he wants."

PATRICIA LOPEZ

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