Franken Says He'd Welcome Obama Visit To Minn.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Sen. Al Franken says he'd welcome a campaign visit by President Barack Obama, a fellow Democrat, during his Minnesota Senate race next year.

Franken insisted Monday that he's not yet in campaign mode, but told reporters that he'd "really enjoy it" if the president campaigned for him.

Incumbent presidents are typically big fundraising draws for congressional candidates, but some candidates shy away from the help if a president is struggling in the polls.

Franken says he thinks Obama is doing "a great job." Franken was in Minnesota to highlight a popular portion of Obama's controversial health care law.

A GOP nominee in the Senate race might not emerge until a primary next August. Three announced are: state Rep. Jim Abeler, businessman Mike McFadden and state Sen. Julianne Ortman.

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