October 25th of this year marked the 15th anniversary of former Senator and Carleton professor Paul Wellstone’s death. Wellstone was a mentor and an inspiration to many people, including current Senator Al Franken, who has been one of the most passionate advocates of Wellstone’s “feisty, fearless, and energetic” legacy (Franken). Senator Franken called KRLX on the 25th to discuss Senator Wellstone’s legacy 15 years after his death. At Carleton, we value Senator Wellstone as one of the most influential and forward-thinking members of our community, and it is clear from Senator Franken’s touching 7-minute interview that he is valued far beyond Carleton. A recording of the interview is attached – it is well worth the listen.
Thank you to Rebecca Newman and Lillie Schneyer for conducting the interview with me, and to Jacob Rockey for recording. Thank you to Molly Morrissey from Senator Franken’s office for helping to coordinate the interview, and a very sincere thank you, of course, to Senator Franken for taking time out of an emotional day to reach out to Carleton.
-Martha Durrett, KRLX Station Manager