Senate race

(Newser) - Funnyman-turned-Democratic candidate Al Franken has announced he'll pay up $70,000 in back taxes to 17 states, AP reports. Franken blamed the backlog on bad advice from his accountant. Most of the income at issue was from speeches and other appearances dating back to 2003. The tax issue has sidetracked...

(Newser) - Comedian Al Franken's campaign for a Minnesota Senate seat is unconventional, the New York Times reports—and it's serious. Best known for his stint on Saturday Night Live and stingingly partisan attacks on the right, Franken is busy proving he can look senatorial. “Minnesotans know what’s a joke...

(Newser) - Tennessee Democrats are seeking a new challenger for Lamar Alexander's Senate seat after prospective candidate Mike McWherter dropped out. The race is important because Tennessee is one of the few Southern states where the Democrats are still strong, reports Congressional Quarterly. Former Democratic chairman Bob Tuke and Nashville attorney Kevin...