Coleman bows out of leadership bid

Citing his desire to focus on his recount efforts, Sen. Norm Coleman has dropped out of the race to become chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC).

According to The Hill newspaper, Coleman on Thursday called Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, to tell him that he was ending his bid and supporting Cornyn for the post. Cornyn, who is vice chairman, has no other opposition for the top job.

Coleman spokesman LeRoy Coleman said the senator wants to concentrate on the recount between himself and DFL challenger Al Franken, which is scheduled to begin Wednesday -- a day after the election for NRSC positions. Even after the recount is complete, many expect a legal battle to follow before a winner emerges.

Coleman lost a bid for the chairmanship in 2004. The head of the NRSC recruits candidates and decides how much money to spend supporting various campaigns.

KEVIN DUCHSCHERE