Franken Taxes The Truth

Franken Dishonest, Intentionally Misleads Minnesotans On Favoring Gas Tax Increase

SAINT PAUL – In a clear attempt to mislead Minnesotans about his support for a gas tax increase, Al Franken said “I’d keep it on the table, but I wouldn’t favor that” while participating in a KSTP-TV debate with the other DFL Senate Candidates. Last year, the comedian voiced strong support for hefty gas tax increases, saying “I would certainly keep it on the table and I think we should do it here in Minnesota,” even going so far as to say that “I don’t think people would notice it so much.”

“This is Al Franken being fundamentally dishonest with the people of Minnesota about his position on increasing the gas tax” said Cullen Sheehan, Campaign Manager. “During these tough economic times, the last thing Minnesota needs is higher gas prices or politicians who have the nerve to say that Minnesotans wouldn’t notice a hefty hike in prices at the pump. That’s an insult to Minnesotans, especially to the middle class families who are facing economic challenges every day.”

The debate will air in its entirety at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 10 on KSTP-TV.

Franken’s Gas Tax Timeline:

Franken Supports Gas Tax Increase In Minnesota: Franken: “Well I would certainly keep it on the table and I think we should do it here in Minnesota.” (TPT ‘Almanac’, August 24, 2007)

Franken Doesn’t Think Minnesotans Will Notice Increase: Franken: “And I think certainly in this state we need to increase the gas tax. We haven’t had an increase in the gas tax in 20 years. And I’m in favor of at least a five to ten cent tax increase. And the fluctuation of gas prices is that everyday anyway. I don’t think people would notice it so much.” (TwinWest Chamber Candidate Forum, October 5, 2007)

Franken Reversal On Gas Tax: “Al [Franken] was non-committal on raising the federal gas tax for transportation funding. ‘I'd keep it on the table but I wouldn't favor that,’ [Franken] said.” (“DFL Senate Candidates Face Facts,” KSTP-TV, February 7, 2008)