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Under the headline "Coleman Recount Update," Norm Coleman's camp released a statement from Norm Coleman moments after Barack Obama became president.

Every senator gets a prominent seat at the inaugural ceremonies, but neither Coleman, whose term expired Jan. 3, nor DFL challenger Al Franken could occupy such a coveted viewing spot because the election remains unresolved.

Republican Norm Coleman is in Minnesota, while Franken is in Washington.

In his statement, Coleman said:

"Today marks an extraordinary moment in the history of our country. Watching Barack Obama be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States will forever be etched into the minds of so many of us as one of those moments for which you remember where you were and what you were doing when it happened. This is a great day for all Americans to come together for the good of our country. Laurie and I join the millions of Americans in congratulating President Obama, and our thoughts and prayers are with he and his family as he assumes the office of the president of the United States."

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482