The Contender

[MAINEiac4434]

FeelTheFranken

[NHI]

The Battle Continues

Elizabeth Warren blasted Senator Al Franken, while speaking in Washington State. The Massachusetts Senator called her Democratic rival, "a phony" and "the weakest candidate the Democrats could nominate." The attack on Franken comes at time Warren is facing increasing pressure to topple Franken in the primary, who has taken a lead in the delegates and momentum. Warren, who has largely avoided attacking her opponents in such a direct manner is seen as running out of options. "She needs to do something dramatic," said MSNBC's Chris Matthews. "She's lost the last few contests and needs to find a way to reclaim the argument and that begins by winning." Current polls put Franken ahead nationally, as well as in both Washington State and Idaho, both states have upcoming contests.

In head-to-head contests with President Trump, Warren fares the worse, garnering only 39% to Trump's 45%. Franken, by  comparison performs battle, tying the President 44% to 44%.

Franken Crushes Warren in WA and ID Contests

✓ Franken: 59.0%
Warren: 31.1%
Booker: 9.8%

✓ Franken: 54.8%
Warren: 38.9%
Booker: 6.3%

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,132 (Needs (1,110)

Elizabeth Warren: 916 (Needs (1,326)

Cory Booker: 581 (Needs 1,661)

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Booker Vows to Fight On

Though his chances of winning the Democratic Nomination are almost mathematically impossible, Cory Booker vows to stay in the race "until the very end". Passing on the upcoming Wisconsin Primary, Booker and his campaign are instead focusing on the New York, Connecticut, Maryland and Rhode Island primary, leaving Wisconsin as a battleground for Al Franken and Elizabeth Warren.

Polls currently give Al Franken a lead over Warren in Wisconsin 47% to 39%. It remains to be seen how Booker's absence in the state will play.

Sanders on Democratic Primary: "Leave Warren Alone!"

Bernie Sanders has decided to remain on the sideline of the Democratic primary, rather than endorse a candidate, a decision which has drawn the ire of both Al Franken and Elizabeth Warren supporters. However, the Vermont Senator did have some harsh words for those in the Democratic Party who have called on Elizabeth Warren to drop out of the primary. "Leave Elizabeth the hell alone," Sanders said on CNN's State of the Union. "Let the people decide who is best to lead the Democratic Party and defeat President Trump." Sanders elbowed what he called the same old voices who called on him four years earlier to abandon his bid against Hillary Clinton. "We stayed in until the end because that is our a free and Democratic society should work!"

Warren currently trails Franken by 216 delegates. 2242 are needed to win the Democratic nomination.

Presumptive Franken?

In light of the recent polls both nationally and in Wisconsin, the next primary, Al Franken and his campaign have taken on a cavalier attitude.  "We continue to believe Al Franken will be the Democratic nominee," a senior spokesperson said. "The math is on our side." Nationally polls show Franken leading Elizabeth Warren 45% to 39%, and the latest Gallup poll in Wisconsin puts the Minnesota Senator ahead, 49% to 41% for Warren.

WI Primary EXIT POLLS:
Franken: 47% Warren: 45%

9:47 PM EST

PROJECTION: ELIZABETH WARREN WINS WISCONSIN PRIMARY!

Warren: 50.0% (47)
Franken: 46.0% (39)
Booker: 3.0%

In a stunning political upset, Elizabeth Warren came from behind to win the Wisconsin Primary, defeating Senator Al Franken and bringing a major shakeup in the Democratic race, which up until the Wisconsin vote had been trending in Franken's direction. Recents polls showed Warren losing to Franken by near double digit margins, and the exit polls released earlier in the evening showed Franken ahead, but by a smaller margin. 47% to 45%.

"Tonight the people of Wisconsin are sending a loud and clear message, we will decide the next President of the United States, not the media and not the establishments!" Warren's fiery victory speech is a throwback to the Warren, progressives and liberals embraced over the last few years, but has been largely muddled during the primary. "People have told us to be quiet, to sit down, to drop out, but we've persisted and tonight we've proven them wrong, and guess what we're going to keep persisting until we win!"
 Pundits and experts are skeptical if this win means Warren will be able to turn her campaign around, but it certainly has made the race a lot more interesting.

"Had she lost Wisconsin," said Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report, "the calls for her to dropout would have persisted. Now she can at least make an argument that the race is far from being officially decided." Warren still faces an uphill climb in the upcoming primaries. Current polls show Franken winning in New York 42% to 37%, and in Connecticut 47% to 40%.

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,171 (Needs (1,071)

Elizabeth Warren: 963 (Needs (1,279)

Cory Booker: 581 (Needs 1,661)

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

BREAKING NEWS: Hillary Clinton Backs Elizabeth Warren ahead of NY Primary

Coming off her upset win in Wisconsin, Elizabeth Warren received a surprise endorsement from Hillary Clinton. The former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic nominee endorsed Warren at a rally in Manhattan where she called her, "the real deal" and "a fighter." Drawing on her own experience during the 2008 and 2016 elections, Clinton said she was inspired by Warren's tenacity and determination. "She's a strong woman and I endorse her because her resilience, but also because she will make the best President!"

Clinton largely kept out of the 2020 race, despite earlier efforts of a draft movement. Clinton's endorsement has been seen as the most coveted backing next to Barack Obama, and by Clinton siding with Warren many see this as a potential coming together of both the establishment and progressive wings.

"This is a big deal," said Chris Matthews during a taping of Hardball. "Hillary has the gravitas and the credibility and she also has something only Warren can relate to, what it's like to be a woman running for President."

New York, Connecticut, Maryland and Rhode Island Vote!

Warren wins New York

✓ Warren: 39.8% (96)
Franken: 36.9% (89)
Booker: 23.2% (12)

Franken wins Maryland

✓ Franken: 44.7% (48)
Warren: 39.9% (41)
Booker: 15.3% (6)

Warren wins Connecticut

✓ Warren: 48.7% (34)
Franken: 44.2% (20)
Booker: 6.0%

Elizabeth Warren wins Rhode Island

✓ Warren: 48.9% (14)
Franken: 46.7% (10)
Booker: 4.3%

[Hoosier_Nick]

I hope Franken hangs in there... (Also: This is a great read! Really well-written!)

[P. Clodius Pulcher did nothing wrong]

Hillary!

[NHI]

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,338 (Needs (904)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,148 (Needs (1,094)

Cory Booker: 599 (Needs 1,643)

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Franken: WTF

Al Franken and his campaign are scratching their heads after going 1-4 in the latest primary contests. The Minnesota Senator suffered three major losses to Elizabeth Warren. While Franken garnered delegates and is now only 904 away from winning the nomination, the momentum of the race seems to have changed in favor of Warren. Warren's campaign turnaround began with a win in Wisconsin, where she upset Franken 50% - 46%. National polls show an increasingly narrower race between the two senators. 46%  for Franken and 44% for Warren.

The next big hurdle for both campaign will be the Pennsylvania Primary. Franken's campaign immediately flew to the Keystone after the loss in New York was projected, rather than deliver a concession speech. Warren arrives in the state tomorrow, after swinging through DC which votes on Saturday.

Polls conducted prior to the four Northeastern state sweep showed Franken leading Warren in Pennsylvania 46% to 39%.

Booker Drops Out.

A week earlier the New Jersey Senator vowed to stay in the race, but is now calling it quits after a dismal showing the early April contests, particularly the New York Primary. Citing the impossible odds and the delegate count Cory Booker said he did not want to risk the Democrats winning in November. He did not endorse a candidate, but said he will support either Elizabeth Warren or Al Franken, calling them both "rock stars".

Another Victory: Warren wins District of Columbia Primary

✓  Warren: 53.3% (15)
Franken: 44.6% (6)

Clooney: I want my Delegates to vote for Warren at DNC

Warren: I will not be silence, I will keep on fighting!

Franken: If Democrats want to lose, then nominate Liz

Pennsylvania Primary!

Breaking News: Exit Polls

Warren: 50%
Franken: 49%

POTUS sounds off on PA Primary & Democrats

PA Democratic Primary: <1% Reporting

Elizabeth Warren: 50.0%
Al Franken: 49.3%
Other: 0.7%

PA Democratic Primary: 20% Reporting

Elizabeth Warren: 49.9%
Al Franken: 49.5%
Other: 0.6%

BREAKING NEWS: PA TOO CLOSE TO CALL!!

Biden warmsup the crowd as PA remains too close to call

"...Elizabeth Warren is the strongest and most competent person running for President! We need here Democrats! America needs her! We cannot allow Donald Trump to have four more years to run wild in the White House..."

BREAKING NEWS: PA TOO CLOSE TO CALL!!

PA Democratic Primary: 48% Reporting

Elizabeth Warren: 49.81%
Al Franken: 49.72%
Other: 0.47%

[NHI]

Al Franken addresses supporters, does not concede PA

"...we will not know the winner until sometime in the earlier morning hours, so I want everyone to hang in there. We're going to be fine. [cheers] The margin is very close and believe I know a thing or two about winning a close election! [laughter/cheers/applause] So thank you all for your support, I love you and good night! Stay tuned. [cheers]

BREAKING NEWS: WARREN PROJECTED TO WIN PA PRIMARY

PA Democratic Primary: 88% Reporting

✓ Elizabeth Warren: 49.85%
Al Franken: 49.77%
Other: 0.38%

Warren Wins PA

..."Tonight we've won another major battle in the race for the Democratic nomination... you haven't given up on me and I will never give up on you!"

Franken talks of 'brokered convention', may recount Pennsylvania

Speaking on MSNBC's Morning Joe, Senator Al Franken speculated over the possibility of the Democrats having a brokered convention, following Elizabeth Warren's apparent win in Pennsylvania. "It's a strong likelihood," Franken said when asked on the state of the race. "I believe we'll lead with a plurality of delegates, but it could go to a floor fight." When asked about the narrow loss in Pennsylvania, Franken said, "the results are not finalized, and we are looking at all options." When pressed, Franken said his campaign was looking into a possible recount.

The current projection gives Elizabeth Warren 49.84% and Franken 49.78%. All news outlets have projected the Keystone State for Elizabeth Warren, though the delegate count is undecided at this time.

PA SOS certifies primary win for Warren, Franken will NOT contest results.

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,438 (Needs (804)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,258 (Needs (984)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Total Delegates: Remaining: 967

Trump blasts Democrats: "They're in a mess!"

Booker: I'm open to being anyone's running mate

Remaining on the sidelines, but stirring the political pot, Senator Cory Booker flatly admitted he would serve on the Democratic ticket with either Elizabeth Warren or Al Franken. "I like and respect them both a lot," he told Vox. "Both are smart and ready and capable leaders." When pressed on endorsing either one, Booker remained undecided. "This may go to the convention anyways, so we'll see."

Booker's comments about a brokered convention have many Democrats pondering the same thought. Franken, currently leads Warren by 180 delegates and given only 967 delegates remain up for grabs it is unlikely neither candidate will garner the necessary 2242 needed to win the nomination on the first ballot. While controversial at the time, many Democrats are openly opining for superdelegates. "They made it simpler," one Democrat said off the record. "Now we're looking at a floor fight!"

Booker who dropped out after the Northeastern primaries, has met privately with both Elizabeth Warren and Al Franken, according to sources close to Booker and the campaigns. Booker who has 599 delegates could be the key to ensuring either Warren or Franken wins the nomination. Former candidate George Clooney, who dropped out after Nevada has openly encouraged his delegates to vote for Elizabeth Warren, but his 13 delegates will be bound to vote for him on the 1st ballot, provided there is a brokered convention.

If a brokered convention occurs, then it will be the first for either party since 1952. Democrats were the last party have a contested convention, which in 1952 produced Adlai Stevenson as their nominee. Stevenson would go onto lose to then General Dwight D. Eisenhower in a landslide.

Keith Ellison: "DNC is going to be fine, we'll have an eventual nominee!"

Kentucky Primary Poll:
Elizabeth Warren: 48%
Al Franken: 47%

Indiana Primary Poll:
Elizabeth Warren: 50%
Al Franken: 45%

General Election Polls: Late April 2020

Donald Trump: 46% (+6)
Elizabeth Warren: 40%

Donald Trump: 45% (+4)
Al Franken: 41%

Takeaway: Trump leads Warren/Franken in new Polls; Dem Primary Hurting Candidates' Chances

Key Battlegrounds:

Ohio: Trump +3/+4
Trump: 46%/45%
Warren/Franken: 42%/41%

Florida: Trump+3/+4
Trump: 47%/47%
Warren/Franken: 44%/43%

Michigan: Trump +3/+2
Trump: 46%/46%
Warren/Franken: 43%/44%

Wisconsin: Trump +4/+2
Trump: 46%/45%
Warren/Franken: 42%/43%

New Hampshire: Warren +3/Trump+2
Trump: 42%/44%
Warren/Franken: 45%/42%

Iowa: Trump +7/+5
Trump: 47%/46%
Warren/Franken: 40%/41%

Pennsylvania: Trump +4
Trump: 46%/46%
Warren/Franken: 42%/42%

Virginia: Warren +3/Franken +2
Trump: 43%/44%
Warren/Franken: 46%/46%

North Carolina: Trump +5
Trump: 47%/48%
Warren/Franken: 42%/43%

Colorado: Trump +1/Franken +1
Trump: 45%/45%
Warren/Franken: 44%/46%

Nevada: Tied/Franken +1
Trump: 45%/45%
Warren/Franken: 45%/46%

Maine: Warren +2/Franken +1
Trump: 44%/44%
Warren/Franken: 46%/45%

Arizona: Trump +5/+4
Trump: 46%/45%
Warren/Franken: 41%/41%

Minnesota: Warren +4/Franken +11
Trump: 43%/41%
Warren/Franken: 47%/52%

Georgia: Trump +6/Trump +6
Trump: 49%/48%
Warren/Franken: 43%/42%

New Mexico: Warren +5/Franken +5
Trump: 41%/41%
Warren/Franken: 46%/46%

Johnson narrowly leads the pack for the Libertarian Nomination

Gary Johnson: 28%
Justin Amash: 23%
Austin Petersen: 20%
Undecided: 19%
Adam Kokesh: 10%

Hypothetical Polling: May 2020
Donald Trump: 46%/45%
Elizabeth Warren/Al Franken: 42%/43%
Gary Johnson: 4%/3%
Undecided: 8%/9%

[NHI]

Franken hits Warren on 'Electability'

Speaking to a crowd in Kentucky a day before the vote, Senator Franken changed up his argument on Elizabeth Warren, this time hitting her as "unelectable". Franken cites recent polls which show him running four to five points behind President Trump. Franken is looking regain momentum after recently losing a series of contests to Warren. Current polls give Warren a slight lead in Kentucky 49% to 47%.

Kentucky and Indiana Primary

Kentucky Primary: Too Close to Call: 5% Reporting

Elizabeth Warren: 50.0%
Al Franken: 47.9%

Indiana Primary: 10% Reporting

✓ Elizabeth Warren: 52.8%
Al Franken: 46.9%

Elizabeth Warren wins IN Primary, KY Too Close to Call

"...tonight Elizabeth Warren has won the Indiana primary by a fairly significant margin. She currently holds a lead in the state of Kentucky, but it remains too close to call at this moment." -- Rachel Maddow, MSNBC

"...another big win for her tonight. Momentum is on her side. Maybe Franken wins Kentucky, maybe he doesn't but certainly not the optics he wants, another loss." -- Chris Matthews, MSNBC

Trump Tweets Out!

[jburnx2]

I think Franken still has the power to win- Hillary lost 6 or 7 contests in a row in 2016 without small wins and still came out as the nominee. I like Liz, but Franken is a phenomenal politician. Go Al!

[NHI]

BREAKING NEWS: Al Franken Wins Kentucky!

Kentucky Primary: 91% Reporting

✓ Al Franken: 50.0%
Elizabeth Warren: 49.1%

Al Franken's Comeback

Senator Al Franken reversed his slide, after weeks of losses to Senator Elizabeth Warren. The Minnesota Democrat rebounded with by winning the Kentucky primary and adding to his delegate count. Franken still leads Warren by 177 delegates and with many contests remaining, including the big prize California, many Democrats are quietly breathing a sigh of relief over the speculation of a brokered convention.

DNC Chair Tom Perez seemed to damper speculation, during an interview on MSNBC. "I think we're going to be fine as a party, because Democrats want to win and the will is so strong right."

The next states to vote are Oregon and New Mexico. Warren currently leads in Oregon 51% to 47%, but Franken holds a slim lead in the latest poll for New Mexico 49% to 47%.

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,508(Needs (734)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,331 (Needs (911)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Franken hits the trail in NM

Speaking to voters in New Mexico, ahead of the next primary, Senator Al Franken talked not about policy differences, even personality difference with Senator Warren, but instead spoke about his family and life story. "I did not have anything handed to me," Franken said, "and the fact I'm in this spot right here is incredible and shows the majesty of this country." Franken didn't waste a chance to blast the President calling him "timid" and quick "to hide behind Twitter!" Franken suggested if he wins the nomination the two meet for a series of Lincoln-Douglas style debates to show their differences. "Even if he is a no show, I'll be there and I think that'll speak volumes!"

New Mexico & Oregon Vote!

Projection: Al Franken wins New Mexico!

✓ Al Franken: 55.0%
Elizabeth Warren: 44.7%

Franken Outside Hotel in Oregon, as results are called in New Mexico

Shortly after the polls closed in New Mexico, all the networks projected Al Franken the winner in the New Mexico Democratic Primary. Despite polls showing a close race, Franken crushed Elizabeth Warren by double digits, giving his campaign a new boost, following his upset win in Kentucky two weeks ago.

Warren wins Oregon, Faces Pressure to Dropout

Despite originally leading Al Franken in Oregon in the early vote, Elizabeth Warren narrowly avoided a major upset. She won the state 50.1% to 49.8%. The narrow win by Warren of the evening has many Democrats calling on the Massachusetts Senator to dropout in favor of Al Franken, but Warren remains committed to fight on until the end. "Every vote matters," she told her supporters.

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,576 (Needs (666)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,378 (Needs (864)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Next State to Vote: West Virgina!

Elizabeth Warren to West Virginia: "You need a doer, not a pretender!"

Taking a swipe, at President Trump and as some saw it, Senator Franken; Elizabeth Warren positioned herself as the champion for working people and promised to fight for the middle class. In a state won by Bernie Sanders over Hillary Clinton four years ago, Warren on paper seems a good fit for the state, but Franken's campaign concentrated early efforts in the state, designed in part to win over disaffected Trump voters, many whom were Democrats who broke with the party on the President's positions for coal. With coal jobs leaving, West Virginia is a ripe place for Democrats and Franken and his team seem to be aware of it, at least for the primary.

Polls show a close race, with Franken narrowly edging out Warren 47% to 45%.

Beyond West Virginia, the remain contests include Puerto Rico, which neither candidate has visited or invested money, Montana and South Dakota, both states favoring Franken (54% to 42% in MT) and (56% to 40% in SD), and lastly California, a state which both Democrats see as the make or break state. A win for Franken assures him the nomination, but a win for Warren would likely prolong the Democratic nomination to the convention in Nevada, later this summer. Polls in California are also close with Warren ahead by one point; 46% to 45%.

2016 Reminds Obama of 2008: Cal Down, He Tells Democrats!

Candidly speaking about the state of the Democratic Race, President Obama says he's unworried over the prolonged battle between Elizabeth Warren and Al Franken. "In 2008, everyone said the primary between Hillary Clinton and I would hurt the party's chances, but instead we came out more united and stronger than before." Though, some Democrat's memory linger back to four years ago, after the contentious battle between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders lasted until June. "I think either Elizabeth or Al would be outstanding nominees and both can win," Obama said when asked if he had a favorite. Obama refused to endorse, saying he'll back the eventual nominee, but did say he voted in the Illinois primary and "was pleased with my vote."

West Virginia Primary: <1% Reporting

Elizabeth Warren: 47.6%
Al Franken: 47.5%
Other: 4.5%

[NHI]

The Long Goodbye

Al Franken Cruises to another win in West Virginia!

✓ Al Franken: 52.05%
Elizabeth Warren: 43.06%
Other: 4.89%

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,465 (Needs (777)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,268 (Needs (974)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Why Not Me? Al Franken's Incredible Rise from Comedian to Presidential Candidate

The old saying, is in America anything is possible. Someone born into poverty, can through hardwork and determination become a millionaire. Anyone can be President. You can make it if you try. As Donald Trump proved four years ago, anything is possible and now Al Franken is hoping to do the same thing. Four years of the Trump rollercoaster, Franken is hoping Americans will be willing to take a chance on a former comedian turned politician. "The difference with me is, I know how to get things done."

Franken has been unafraid to take on Donald Trump, even saying he'd compete on his level in terms of name calling and belittling. "Trump is a bully and the only way a bully is beaten is if you stand up and take the bully on." Franken comes from the perceived more centrist wing of the Democratic Party, but he has been busy working for nearly twelve years on important causes and issues to the people of Minnesota.

While he doesn't bask for the glow of the spotlight, he believes his work ethic combined with some whit will help seal the deal with voters. "If I am fortunate enough to win this nomination and become President I will work my heart out and do everything I can to give everyone a shot at what I've got and that is the American Dream."

Current national polls show Donald Trump leading Franken 44% to 41%, giving encouragement to the Minnesota Democrat that Trump can be beaten. "He's vulnerable. Look at the unemployment when he took office, look at where it is now. Look at what he promised and look at what he's failed to deliver. The list goes on."

Franken has long contended he is the strongest candidate to face Trump and he continues to point to his strong showing in places Democrats don't typically win. "We have to speak to all of America," Franken said. "Everyone, from every state, every color, every background."

Elizabeth Warren: Going the Distance

Elizabeth Warren, acknowledges she may end up losing the Democratic nomination, but she believes she owes it to herself and to her supporters to finish the race. "I'm no quitter," she said. "I believe in finishing what is started." She trails Al Franken in the delegate count and in most national polls fares worse against the President then Franklin. The critical state of Ohio, which Trump carried easily four years ago, Warren garners only 43% to Trump's 49%, while Franken makes it a tied race: 44% to 44%.

Warren knows she's facing an uphill battle. With Democrats calling on her to dropout on an almost daily basis, she says she finds solace in her faith and from an phone call from a familiar figure. "Hillary Clinton called me, and she told me to ignore the naysayers and the pundits and to keep on pushing. To keep on fighting." Clinton, who endured a prolonged primary fight with Barack Obama, ultimately losing to the future President and then losing in an upset to Donald Trump four years ago -- Clinton she says knows a thing or two about going the distance. "I'm going to do everything I can and let the chips fall where they may."

Warren Wins Puerto Rico

✓ Elizabeth Warren: 51.1%
Al Franken: 48.9%

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 1,499 (Needs (743)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,303(Needs (939)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

Delegates Remaining: 603 from SD, MT, CA

Weaver on state of the Democratic Race

Speaking on MSNBC's Morning Joe, Franken Campaign Manager Jeff Weaver addressed the increased probability of a brokered convention in Las Vegas. "Obviously, that is something we as a party would love to avoid." Franken currently leads Warren by almost 200 delegates and the margin will continue to narrow as the final states vote."Mr. Franken will likely be the leader in the delegate count as the candidates head into the convention." Weaver did not specifically say if there  would be a need for a second ballot, seeming to indicate, Mr. Franken would become the nominee without much horsetrading. "The uncommitted delegates will be the key to determining the eventual nominee of the Democratic Party."

Franken Focuses on winning California by Huge Margins

Elizabeth Warren makes her closing arugment: "I'm fighting for you!"

June 9: 2020 End of the Democratic Primary

Al Franken wins South Dakota!

✓ Al Franken: 60.8%
Elizabeth Warren: 38.7%

Frankens wins Montana!

✓ Al Franken: 60.2%
Elizabeth Warren: 39.4%

Franken wins California!

✓ Al Franken: 58.9%
Elizabeth Warren: 40.0%

Al Franken Leads Delegates; Looks to have Nomination Sewn up

Al Franken is 134 delegates shy from winning to the Democratic nomination, compared to rival Elizabeth Warren who needs 427 delegates to win the nomination. He sounded a victorious note in his speech in Los Angeles. "We've taken a big first step tonight towards taking back our country," Franken said cheering supporters who saw the significance of the night. Franken, swept all three contests, defying expectations and winning by double-digit margins.

Update Delegate: Democratic Primary
Need: 2242 Delegates to Win Democratic Nomination

Al Franken: 2,108 (Needs (134)

Elizabeth Warren: 1,815 (Needs (427)

Cory Booker: 599

George Clooney: 13

Tulsi Gabbard: 1

BREAKING NEWS: ELIZABETH WARREN TO DELIVER SPEECH IN BOSTON;
SOURCES: MA SEN. WILL DELIVER CONCESSION SPEECH JUNE 13

[America Needs R'hllor]

Beautiful timeline. Franken 2020!

[The Other Castro]

It's times like these where I wish Jill Stein was a sane Democratic politician viable as a running mate.

[Blackacre]

Why is Warren conceding? Booker has more delegates than she needs to win; he's basically kingmaker now. It's not over till it's over

[UWS]

Why is Warren conceding? Booker has more delegates than she needs to win; he's basically kingmaker now. It's not over till it's over

Maybe Franken could get Booker's endorsement by promising him to select him as his running mate during a private phone call.

That way, Booker's 599 delegates will support Franken and allow him to clinch the nomination.

[NHI]

Sources: Booker to endorse Franken, pledging his delegates to MN Senator

Sources close to the Booker and Franken campaigns reveal prospective deal, which includes Cory Booker endorsing Al Franken for President, thus allowing him to clinch the Democratic nomination with Booker's 599 delegates. In exchanges, sources close to both campaigns say Booker has been offered to run with Franken on the Democratic ticket, which helped seal the deal for the New Jersey Senator.

Rumors suggest Booker approached Elizabeth Warren and her campaign over a possible deal, which involved Booker being selected as Vice President in exchange for his delegates, however, while unconfirmed Warren declined the offer saying, "she did not want to run with Booker on the ticket."

Booker emerges now as the kingmaker, ensuring the nomination of Al Franken and his own spot on the Democratic ticket.

June 13: Elizabeth Warren Concedes Democratic Race for President

Elizabeth Warren Ends Bid for President

Speaking before a packed audience in Boston's Faneuil Hall, Senator Elizabeth Warren, once the favorite to win the Democratic nomination, dropped out of the race for President, saying in part, "we have reached the end of our journey. I promised to see the race through and I'm so glad we did." While, unofficial and unconfirmed, it is speculated Senator Cory Booker will within the coming days endorse Senator Al Franken, pledging his 599 delegates to the Minnesota Senator, thus ensuring him the Democratic nomination and sparing the Democrats of a floor fight.

It was speculated Booker approached Warren over the possibility of serving on her ticket, but was declined. Both campaigns have denied the rumor, saying no dealings ever took place.

For Warren, the speech marked the end of a long road, which began over a year ago with her entrance into the race for President as the clear frontrunner for the Democrats, but in a campaign marked by complacency and at times arrogance, Warren stumbled ceding momentum and ground to Al Franken, who emerged as the dark horse back in January by winning Iowa.

"What happened to Elizabeth Warren is the same thing that happened to Hillary Clinton," said Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report. "She thought she couldn't lose, and in part there is some truth to that. The Democratic race ended with Franken having only a plurality of the delegates, but the problem lies with Warren's campaign failing to estimate Franken's chances and so when he won Iowa they were caught completely and totally by surprise and they never fully recovered from it."

Warren, now returns to the United States Senate. In her closing remarks she praised all the candidates on the Democratic side and said with 'every fiber of my being, I will support proudly the Democratic nominee for President of the United States!' Most noticibly she failed to mention Al Franken by name.

[NHI]

Booker for VP

Wasting little time, Al Franken announced his pick of Senator Cory Booker for Vice President of the United States. Booker, who emerged as a kingmaker at the end of the Democratic primaries, helped ensure Franken the nomination by pledging his 599 delegates to the Minnesota Senator at the Convention. The likely Franken/Booker ticket is seen as a strong one for the Democrats, who are weary over running against President Trump.

Franken, if he's nervous did not show it. He blasted the President in his announcement speech, then turned it over to his wannabe Vice President. "We need to turn the page," Booker said. "Enough of the lies. Enough of the corruption. Enough of the jokes. Let's get serious. Let's get America back on track." 'Let's get Serious' has been a moniker for the Franken campaign since it's onset. A subtle reference to Franken's past-career as a comedian and writer, now serves as the campaign's motto and slogan.

Current polls show Franken trailing President Trump nationally, 46% to 43%.

Ohio: Franken +4
Trump: 48%
Franken: 44%

Wisconsin: Tied
Franken: 46%
Trump: 46%

Michigan: Franken +1
Franken: 46%
Trump: 45%

Florida: Trump +4
Trump: 48%
Franken: 44%

Iowa: Trump +4
Trump: 47%
Franken: 43%

Pennsylvania: Trump +2
Trump: 46%
Franken: 44%

Nevada: Franken +2
Franken: 46%
Trump: 44%

New Hampshire: Tied
Franken: 45%
Trump: 45%

Maine: Franken +2
Franken: 47%
Trump: 45%

Colorado: Franken +4
Franken: 46%
Trump: 42%

Virginia: Franken +6
Franken: 48%
Trump: 42%

North Carolina: Trump +3
Franken: 47%
Franken: 44%

New Mexico: Franken +7
Franken: 47%
Trump: 41%

Amash wins the Libertarian Nomination!

Facing stiff competition from Gary Johnson and Austin Petersen, Republican congressman and previous GOP candidate for President, Just Amash won the Libertarian on the first ballot, garnering 51% of the vote.

[NHI]

Trump Goes on Defensive

President Trump lashed out at his newly minted Democratic rival, Senator Al Franken, calling him a "lightweight" and a "Comedian". Trump, who has faced recent attacks by the Minnesota Senator ranging from Obamacare to the so-called "Trump Tax Cuts", is now trying to redefine the narrative as the campaign shifts to the general election.

Despite Republican control of both Houses and the Presidency, much of Trump's big agenda has yet to be enacted. From Congressional investigations, to cabinet member resignations and replacements, Trump has struggled to control the story on a day-to-day basis, something which he excelled at back during the 2016 campaign. Now four years hence he shows the signs of the job, and his inability to deliver much of his bold agenda, save for small installations of "the wall" have cost him some of his support and made the election tighter than his campaign would like.

Former White House Aide and now Campaign Manager, Kellyanne Conway brushed off concerns that the campaign is underwater. "The President has always been the underdog, and in this election that's case too." Conway also added, "the President promised to changed Washington and he's made tremendous progress, but not only has to contend and fight with a biased media and the Democrats in Congress, but also blockheaded Republicans."

This new tactic is right out of the Harry Truman playbook: Run against Congress. While Trump is a Republican has not shied away from a fight with Republican. In late 2018, when an Obamacare Repeal bill died in the House, the President lashed out at Speaker Paul Ryan, calling him, "gravely ineffective" and "out of his league". This strategy has proven successful for Presidents running against the opposite party, but Trump has been able to defy expectations throughout his political career and Presidency, so he may be able to do so, yet again.

Current polls put Trump ahead nationally, 46% to Franken's 45%.

Booker Takes on Trump

Vice Presidential nominee to be Cory Booker took to the campaign trail in Ohio, a state where he and Al Franken have set their sights on; and blasted the President for failing to protect jobs. Though, Booker seemed to diverge from the campaign script and lambasted Trump over the culture of his administration. "I have never seen such a bigoted, corrupt and downright mean-spirited government in all of my life," Booker said to a cheering crowd. "The President and his comrades should be ashamed!" Booker's fiery rhetoric has been seen lately on the campaign trail, as the Democrats ready for their convention in Georgia.

Warren & Franken Unite

One time rivals, now united in their opposition to President Trump. Senator Al Franken was joined by Senator Elizabeth Warren on the stump, where the Massachusetts Senator endorsed her former rival for the nomination. While some of her supporters remain disheartened by the results, Warren pledged her support to Franken and called on all "progressives and Democrats to unite, because President Trump cannot win another four years!"

Amash Stirs the Political Pot

Since winning the Libertarian Nomination, Justin Amash has been making the rounds, hoping to form a winning coalition, comprised of libertarians and Republicans, turned off by President Trump. The task has not been easy. Amash has faced increasing backlash from Republicans in Congress and at the national level. RNC chair, Ronna Romney McDaniel blasted Amash for "turning his back on the GOP" and called on him to resign his position in Congress.

Amash, who remains a registered Republican calls himself a "liberty minded person, who is seeking to protect and restore a constitutional government." President Trump and his campaign have blasted Amash as "sore loser" and when asked if he should be allowed to debate Kellyanne Conway said flat "no way."

Democrats Arrive in Georgia: 2020

Democrats converged on the George R. Brown Convention Center. For the next four days Democrats will be making the case why Al Franken should be elected the next President of the United States. The theme over the next four night will be: "Hindsight is 20-20". An obvious play to the election year and the expression of regret. Franken will not speak until Thursday's close, but Democrats have lined up high profile individuals for the next few nights.

Monday: Hindsight is 20-20 "Foreign Policy"
- Former SOS John Kerry
- Primetime: Franni Bryson, Senator Franken's wife
- Senator Jeanne Shaheen
- Governor Gavin Newsom

Tuesday: Hindsight is 20-20 "Jobs & the Middle Class"
- Nominations of: President and Vice President of the United States, Al Franken & Cory Booker
- Senator Kamala Harris
- Senator Elizabeth Warren, Keynote Address
- Former President Barack Obama

Wednesday: Hindsight is 20-20 "Democrat's Plan for Recovery"
- Salute to Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
- Senator Amy Klobuchar, nominating speech of Cory Booker
- Governor Roy Cooper
- Activist and Actor George Clooney
- Senator Cory Booker: VP Acceptance Speech

Thursday: Hindsight is 20-20 "Looking to the Future"
-  Speech by Senator Tammy Baldwin
- Governor Chris Pappas, nominating speech of Al Franken
- Senator Al Franken: Acceptance of the Democratic Nomination

[NHI]

Al Franken for President

..."the probability of me standing up here is quite slim, but then again the probability of Donald Trump being in the White House was also slim - so in America anything is possible... Tonight I wish to speak, not on the past four years, but on the next four years. The Trump era is ending and so begins a fresh start, a clean slate. I am ready with your help to unlock our country's potential and make this nation once again a vibrant, prosperous, compassionate and hopeful society..."


In a speech aimed squarely at middle America, Al Franken sought to present himself as an able leader, who would unite the country. Pundits hailed Franken's speech a political home run. He went after Trump, but on substance, something Hillary Clinton largely avoided four years earlier, instead choosing to attack Trump on his temperament. Franken, moved past such talk, focusing on the "Trump record of big talk and no action".  

Early results in the polls show Franken getting a needed bounce. Going into the convention the Minnesota Democrat trailed the President by 1 to 2 points, but current national polls show him leading Trump: 47% to 44%.

Al Franken: 228

Donald Trump: 213

Tossup: 97

Solid Franken: 211

Solid Trump: 148

Tossup: 179

If the Election were held today...

Based on Polling Averages:

Trump: 296 (46.5%)

Franken: 242 (45.8%)

[NHI]

Trump: The Art of the Reelect

Donald Trump came ready for a brawl at his acceptance speech before the Republican convention. The 45th President, proudly accepted the GOP nod, with an acknowledgment to his 'success' and his 'planned successes' for the future. Trump wasted little effort in blasting his opponent Senator Al Franken as a "wannabe, trying to find a seat at the big kids table." Trump dismissed the Democrats as "copy-cats", forced to replay their campaign from four years ago, without any new ideas or changes. "Their party is a mess," Trump said seizing on the simmering tensions between the Warren and Franken campaigns. "The majority of the party is unhappy and disgusted by another shameful primary, whereas we are united, we are strong and we are ready to win."

For Trump, keeping the pressure on Franken and playing up the divide in the party is his greatest argument, and attacking Franken early may prove another success, though as of late the campaign has been unable to brand Franken, like Hillary Clinton with the moniker "crooked Hillary".

Trump provided little specifics on his agenda should be elected, but did focus his time on attacking what he perceived as "an inept Congress" more concerned "with themselves and not you, the people!" In typical Trump fashion, the President promised to continue to be "the strongest President for the people of the United States, and to never back down from a fight." Initial reactions praised the speech. Trump, who has faced at times a divided GOP by and large has a united party, which bodes well for him as the general election unfolds.

Compared to Franken who garners roughly 83% of Democratic Support, Donald Trump takes 90% support from the GOP base. Early polls show Trump receiving a bounce from his convention, though smaller than Franken's 3 point margin. Currently, Trump leads Franken 47% to 45%.

Trump Hits the Trail

Flying immediately to NH, Donald Trump kicked off the general election campaign in a rally at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, which drew 9,500 people.

Franken Rallies in Ohio, Michigan and Pennsylvania

Targeting three states won by Pres. Trump in 2016, Sen. Franken is hoping to win back at least two of them, thus denying Trump his firewall.

Conway: "We're playing in every state."

Campaign Manager Kellyanne Conway suggests the Trump campaign is going to target blue states like Maine, Colorado, New Jersey and Connecticut.

[NHI]

Franken Moves to Pennsylvania

In one of the boldest moves of the campaign, Senator Franken is descending on the Keystone State for seven straight days, with the hopes of flipping Pennsylvania back into the Democratic column. The campaign knows if the Minnesota Senator has any hopes of becoming President, he must flip back at least one of the states carried by President Trump over Hillary Clinton (i.e. PA, WI, OH, MI). Current polls put Trump ahead of Franken 48% to 45%, while the campaign suggest internal polls show a tied race: 47% to 47.

Trump Shakesup the Map

Despite polling which shows Al Franken winning New Jersey 53% to 42% over Donald Trump, that hasn't stopped the President and his campaign from rallying supporters in the Garden State. New Jersey, which hasn't voted for a Republican since 1988, is one of many 'blue states' the Trump reelection campaign is targeting. "They're looking to shake up the map," said Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report. "Even if they can't win these states, if they can make them competitive enough, it'll force Democrats and Franken to spend time and money there." Even with the added presence of Senator Cory Booker on the ticket, many Trump campaign operatives see movement in New Jersey. "We're going to take Mr. Trump's message to all corners of the country, which is more than Mr. Franken can do," said Campaign Manager Kellyanne Conway.

Other states the Trump campaign is making a play for include, Connecticut and Maine. The campaign has also suggested a potential rally in Massachusetts, in hopes of playing up the lingering resentment from the Elizabeth Warren wing, after her loss to Franken in the primaries. Polls in the Baystate show Franken ahead 56% to Trump's 37%.

Battleground Polling:

Ohio: Trump +3
Trump: 47%
Franken: 44%

Michigan: Trump +1
Trump: 46%
Franken: 45%

Wisconsin: Franken +2
Franken: 47%
Trump: 45%

Pennsylvania: Trump +2
Trump: 48%
Franken: 46%

Florida: Trump +3
Trump: 48%
Franken: 45%

New Hampshire: Franken +1
Franken: 47%
Trump: 46%

Maine: Franken +1
Franken: 46%
Trump: 45%

Maine CD 2: Trump +3
Trump: 50%
Franken: 47%

Iowa: Trump +2
Trump: 48%
Franken: 46%

North Carolina: +3
Trump: 49%
Franken: 46%

Colorado: Franken +3
Franken: 48%
Trump: 45%

Nevada: Franken +2
Franken: 48%
Trump: 46%

Arizona: Trump +3
Trump: 48%
Franken: 45%

Missouri: Trump +5
Trump: 49%
Franken: 44%

Georgia: Trump +4
Trump: 49%
Franken: 45%

Montana: Trump +6
Trump: 50%
Franken: 44%

Alaska: Trump +8
Trump: 49%
Franken: 41%

Minnesota: Franken +17
Franken: 57%
Trump: 40%

New Jersey: Franken +11
Franken: 53%
Trump: 42%

National Polls: Three-way race

ABC/Wash Post:
Trump: 43%
Franken: 42%
Amash: 3%

Gallup:
Franken: 46%
Trump: 44%
Amash: 2%

Rasmussen:
Trump: 47%
Franken: 43%
Amash: 1%

NBC/WSJ:
Trump: 45%
Franken: 45%
Amash: 2%

National Polls: Two-way race

ABC/Wash Post:
Trump: 46%
Franken: 45%

Gallup:
Franken: 47%
Trump: 45%

Rasmussen:
Trump: 49%
Franken: 43%

NBC/WSJ:
Trump: 47%
Franken: 46%

[YPestis25]

Let's go Al! Great work as usual NHI.

Interesting numbers out of Missouri. That'd be a heck of a swing.

[jburnx2]

Franken's pulling impressive margins in Alaska, Missouri, and Montana. Hope he wins.

[NHI]

Trump 'Unhinged' in 1st Debate Against Franken

Drawing and even at times exceeding criticisms from his debate performance against Hillary Clinton in 2016, President Trump unleashed a tour-de-force against Senator Al Franken, when the two met for the first time at the University of Massachusetts, in Amherst. Trump blasted Franken for being "a failed comedian who decided he'd try his hand at politics," to attacks on the states' Senator and Franken's one-time rival Elizabeth Warren. "She was screwed in this past primary, by the Democrats and by the party establishment, all because they wanted this guy and not her."

Franken, by contrast was more measured, attacking Trump on taxes and the deficit, while presenting his plans for America. Early polls conducted after the debate showed Franken winning easily with 49% of respondent thinking the Minnesota Senator won, compared to 27% who thought Trump performed well. Analysts are cautious, as was the case four years, Clinton was seen as the superior debater to Trump, and yet she lost the election.

"I think these debates are relatively meaningless," said Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report. "Gone are the days of Reagan and Carter, where a candidate won on both style and substance. Now both sides will spin a win regardless of the outcome. It's all about the optics and less about substance. To Trump's base he was brash, he was on the attack, in other words vintage Trump. If these debates were judged by who prepared the best, then we'd be talking about President Hillary Clinton tonight."

Libertarian nominee Justin Amash, was barred for participating in the debate, despite an earlier attempt to be present. "I think all voices should be heard," he said to CNN, "regardless of polling numbers." National polls put Amash between 1% and 3% in the polls.

First New National Poll Since Presidential Debate: FRANKEN OPENS UP A LEAD

Al Franken: 48%
Donald Trump: 43%
Undecided: 9%

Analysis:

The first real indicators on where the Presidential race stands after 1st debate, shows Senator Al Franken, leading President Trup by five points, the first time the entire cycle the Minnesota Senator has lead the President by a large margin. Franken received universal praise for his measured performance, whereas Trump was criticized for appearing erratic and unprepared. Still, with a Vice Presidential debate and two more presidential debates remaining and a month and half before voters head to the polls, the race is described as fluid and will likely remain close down to the wire.

"The numbers will tighten up," said CNN's John King. "We saw this in 2016, Hillary Clinton held a commanding lead and then the numbers tightened, and so I expect that will happen in 2020."

[NHI]

Booker Falls Flat in VEEP Debate

As national polls show momentum shifting to Senator Franken, his running mate Cory Booker walked into his debate with Vice President Pence, appearing confident, but Booker's overconfidence seemed to be his downfall. The New Jersey Senator failed to deliver a solid attack against the Vice President or the President. Pence, in his usual calm demeanor deflected Booker's softball attacks and kept the focus on President Trump's agenda, while offering subtle digs at Senator Franken. Expectations going into the debate, were that the end result would be a draw, but Pence's measured performance was widely praised, especially compared to the President's more erratic debate against Franken.

Democrats' hopes to continue their momentum were dashed Wednesday night, with Booker's less than stellar debate. Still, national polls show Franken holding a lead over President Trump: 47% to 44%, raising expectations as the two prepare to meet for their second and final Presidential debate; a town hall. A third debate was planned, but ultimately collapsed when the demands of the Trump campaign could not be met.

Franken: "Trump's Afraid to Debate me!"

President Trump's decision to pull out of the third Presidential debate, is giving Senator Al Franken and his campaign a new talking point. Paid staffers dressed in chicken costumes began showing up around Trump rallies, holding signs: POTUS is a CHICKEN! The Trump campaign stands by their decision to back out of the debate, saying their terms could not be met.

Trump took to Twitter, calling out Franken and his campaign, suggesting his decision to campaign and forgo a third debate is a better use of time. Senator Franken, has publicly stated he'll gladly showup at the third debate, with or without Trump and answer questions, saying, 'because leaders don't duck and hide!'

Analysts see Trump's decision to forgo a final debate as a reaction to his less than well received debate from a week ago, coupled with increasing poll numbers favoring Franken.

Battleground Polls:

Ohio: Trump +1
Trump: 47%
Franken: 46%

Pennsylvania: Trump +1
Trump: 48%
Franken: 47%

Wisconsin: Franken +3
Franken: 48%
Trump: 45%

Michigan: Franken +1
Franken: 47%
Trump: 46%

Iowa: Trump +2
Trump: 48%
Franken: 46%

Florida: Trump +2
Trump: 47%
Franken: 45%

New Hampshire: Franken +2
Franken: 48%
Trump: 46%

Maine: Franken +3
Franken: 48%
Trump: 45%

Maine CD 2: Trump +3
Trump: 49%
Franken: 46%

Missouri: Trump +4
Trump: 48%
Franken: 44%

Colorado: Franken +3
Franken: 47%
Trump: 44%

Nevada: Franken +4
Franken: 48%
Trump: 44%

North Carolina: Trump +2
Trump: 47%
Franken: 45%

Montana: Trump: +5
Trump: 48%
Franken: 43%

Virginia: Franken +6
Franken: 47%
Trump: 41%

Alaska: Trump +8
Trump: 49%
Franken: 41%

Georgia: Trump +4
Trump: 49%
Franken: 45%

Arizona: Trump +3
Trump: 49%
Franken: 46%

National Polling Average: Franken +1.4

Franken: 45.8%
Trump: 44.4%
Amash: 1.8%
Other: 0.8%

Battleground Polling Average

Ohio: Trump +2.0
Trump: 46.9%
Franken: 44.9%

Pennsylvania: Trump +1.2
Trump: 47.1%
Franken: 45.9%

Wisconsin: Trump: +1.1
Trump: 46.4%
Franken: 45.3%

Michigan: Trump + 0.5
Trump: 45.1%
Franken: 44.6%

Iowa: Trump +3.1
Trump: 47.5%
Franken: 44.4%

Florida: Trump +1.4
Trump: 47.3%
Franken: 45.1%

New Hampshire: Franken +1.6
Franken: 46.5%
Trump: 44.9%

Maine: Franken +1.9
Franken: 47.6%
Trump: 45.7%

Maine CD 2: Trump +4.7
Trump: 49.6%
Franken: 44.9%

Missouri: Trump +4.0
Trump: 47.9%
Franken: 43.9%

Colorado: Franken +3.4
Franken: 46.1%
Trump: 42.7%

Nevada: Franken +3.2
Franken: 47.0%
Trump: 43.8%

North Carolina: Trump +2.7
Trump: 47.7%
Franken: 45.0%

Montana: Trump: +5.1%
Trump: 48.2%
Franken: 43.1%

Virginia: Franken +6.0
Franken: 48.0%
Trump: 42.0%

Alaska: Trump +8.0
Trump: 48.5%
Franken: 40.5%

Georgia: Trump +4.0
Trump: 49.0%
Franken: 45.0%

Arizona: Trump +3.0
Trump: 48.5%
Franken: 45.5%

Based on Polling Averages:

Trump: 306 (44.4%)

Franken: 232 (45.8%)

[Pericles]

Now for the final stretch. Momentum in that stretch will be very important, as we saw in 2012 and 2016.