Michele Bachmann, former U.S. Representative from Minnesota and one-time presidential candidate, said she is considering running for Franken’s former Senate seat.
Bachmann hinted at a potential senatorial run during an interview with televangelist Jim Bakker last week.
“I’ve had people contact me and urge me to run for that Senate seat,” Bachmann said during Bakker’s Dec. 27 TV show. “Am I being called to this now? I don’t know.”
Over her time in the political spotlight, Bachmann has become known for being outspoken about her faith. Bachmann told Bakker the ability to take Christian principles to the Senate is the “only reason” she would run. However, Bachmann acknowledges the current political climate is not an easy place for a person of faith.
“The price is bigger than ever because the swamp is so toxic,” Bachmann said “If you’re going against the tide in D.C., if you’re trying to stand for biblical principles in D.C., and you stick your head up out of the hole, the blades come whirring, and they try to chop you off. This is not an easy place to be.”
Following the interview, Bachmann further indicated she is seriously considering getting back into politics, posting on Facebook for the first time in months.
Former State Rep. Ernie Lediger was quick to throw in his support for Bachmann, commenting on her Facebook post that she has the “right values to represent us.” Emily Gruenhagen, wife of State Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R-Glencoe), also voiced her support for Bachmann, saying she would be “thrilled” to see her take Franken’s seat.
Today Lt. Gov. Tina Smith will be sworn in to temporarily take Franken’s seat. Smith will act as Franken’s replacement until the special election in November. Smith has already announced plans to run for the seat in the upcoming election. Smith is the only Democratic candidate to announce a bid for Franken’s seat. State Rep. Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point) is the only Republican candidate to have officially joined the race. However, former Gov. Tim Pawlenty has also been floated as a potential candidate.