Key facts and offices held
Norm Coleman is an American politician best known for his service as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota. The following table summarizes core, verifiable attributes.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Norman Coleman | Official biographies |
| Date of birth | August 17, 1949 | Biographical records |
| Place of birth | New York City, New York | Official biographies |
| Party (Senate) | Democrat (elected), later Independent | Congressional records |
| U.S. Senate term | 2003–2009 | Congressional directory |
| Previous offices | Mayor of St. Paul, Minnesota (1993–2003) | Municipal records |
Coleman served one full six-year Senate term and part of a second term after Minnesota’s 2008 contested election. His mayoral tenure focused on urban development and public safety in St. Paul.
The 2008 Senate election and contested outcome
Election night and initial results
In the 2008 Senate election, Coleman held a narrow lead on election night. However, the race tightened as absentee and challenged ballots were reviewed. State canvassing procedures and subsequent court actions delayed a final determination.
Recount and state canvassing board decision
A state recount and contentious canvassing board proceedings followed Minnesota’s statutory timeline. The board’s rulings on ballot challenges shaped which votes were counted, illustrating how close elections hinge on procedural detail.
U.S. Senate seating and Al Franken’s seating
In a separate 2009 Senate vote, Democrat Al Franken was seated after his own protracted recount contest in Minnesota. Coleman did not regain the seat; Franken’s seating completed Minnesota’s delegation balance at the time.
Committee assignments and legislative focus
During his Senate service, Coleman held assignments on prominent committees, including those overseeing health, judiciary matters, and veterans’ affairs. His record includes bipartisan health care negotiations and advocacy on transportation issues. Key votes often reflected a moderate approach aligned with Minnesota’s evolving electorate.
Post-Senate career and public life
After leaving the Senate, Coleman returned to Minnesota, engaged in civic and nonprofit work, and remained active in policy discussions. He has participated in commissions and public forums on governance and election administration, drawing on his experience in close races and recount procedures.
Political legacy and context
Coleman’s tenure is often referenced in discussions about swing-state politics and the resilience of bipartisan collaboration. His mayoral and Senate service shaped policy debates on transportation, health, and election administration, leaving a lasting imprint on Minnesota governance.