Oh Snap-- Pawlenty to Franken: Thanks But No Thanks

Minnesota's Governor has flatly refused to sign off on Al Franken's Senate Seat. The Governor and the Secretary of State are not signing the certification for Franken to take office.

While this will not stop the comedian, it will likely delay his taking office. This may be enough time for challenger Norm Coleman to launch an appeal. Franken was behind by about 200 votes and after some votes 'mysteriously' appeared, he is ahead of Coleman by 225.

Coleman is suing over the result, claiming there were irregularities on Election Day and during the recount.

Minnesota law prevents officials from issuing an election certificate until legal matters are resolved. But Franken's legal team argues that federal election law entitles Franken to receive the certificate before the lawsuit is settled.

"The people of Minnesota are down a senator in the U.S. Senate. This is an opportunity for Governor Pawlenty and Secretary Ritchie to ensure the interests of all Minnesotans are represented in Washington," Franken lawyer Marc Elias told reporters in a conference call. He didn't rule out a lawsuit.