Princeton Survey Research for the Minneapolis Star Tribune (10/16-17, likely voters, 9/30-10/2 in parens):
Al Franken (D): 39 (43)
Norm Coleman (R-inc): 36 (34)
Dean Barkley (IP): 18 (18)
(MoE: ±3.8%)
The previous Strib poll seemed like a bit of an outlier, but this one is right in line with most other recent polls. The Barkley factor still looms large here — only 18% of his supporters say that they back him strongly, indicating a lot of parked votes that could fall off the fence in one direction or the other come election day.
until the votes are counted.
I picture Charles Barkley playing the role of the school dean in Animal House
and final debate this Friday. Apparently, earlier debates were Barkley joining Al to beat up on Norm, two against one.
Will it be the same this Friday?
Could he turn on Franken? This is such a wild card.
And then Hillary will be in MN this week campaigning for Al (and Obama tooof course). What effect might that visit have? Man what an interesting toss-up race…
Any thoughts on which party Barkley would likely caucus with if he pulled this off?