Coleman's Lead Over Franken Narrows In Minnesota Recount

In Minnesota, officials are hand counting more than 3 million paper ballots cast in the Senate race between Republican incumbent Norm Coleman and Democratic challenger Al Franken.

The recount began today, with Coleman leading by 215 votes. Franken gained about 41 votes today, with officials finishing 18% of the recount. So now the margin is down to 174 votes.

UPDATE (11/20/08): Coleman's lead is down to 142 votes with 31% of the recount completed.

For a chart from the Minneapolis Star-Tribune with all the data, click HERE.

The recount is not expected to be completed before December 5.