Coleman changes tune on scandal-tainted funds from indicted Sen. Stevens

The Coleman campaign did a 180 on what to do with campaign funds from indicted Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska. The Coleman campaign said they wouldn’t rid themselves of the money yesterday evening, but as Rachel Stassen-Berger reports, they will be donating the money today — but not without a jab at Al Franken first. According to the campaign, the standard of innocent until proven guilty has shifted overnight.

Coleman said Tuesday:

"It’s a very, very serious matter. It’s being pursued by the Justice Department aggressively and appropriately, and in this country, people are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and Sen. Stevens will have an opportunity to present his case."

Coleman campaign manager Cullen Sheehan also said Tuesday:

"Under the American system of justice, people are presumed innocent until proven guilty. We will adhere to that standard before making any decision to return contributions."

Sheehan on Wednesday:

"The campaign will be donating any funds received in this cycle from the Northern Lights PAC to childhood cancer research. The Senator believes firmly in a presumption of innocence.  But it is clear our political opponents will attempt to use this issue as a distraction from Al Franken’s violation of tax law in at least 18 states, including Minnesota and his violation of New York’s Worker’s Compensation Laws."