Inforum: He's no joke: Franken marks anniversary in Senate with confidence

WASHINGTON – One year ago, watchful eyes – some skeptically – were on Al Franken as he made the transition from being a former "Saturday Night Live" staple to becoming Minnesota's freshman U.S. senator.

Many, from national political pundits to average Minnesotans, wondered what to make of the comedian-turned-lawmaker and how the Democrat might approach his role among the powerful elite in the U.S. Congress.

But such doubts have dissipated as Franken demonstrates a focused approach to lawmaking ...