Harold LeVander giving a speech during his term as governor of Minnesota (1967–1971).

The 2008 Norm Coleman–Al Franken US Senate race recount wasn’t the first time the state’s voters had to endure a messy battle over ballots. In 1962, incumbent Republican governor Elmer L. Andersen and his challenger, Karl Rolvaag, ran a tight race and then duked it out in a contentious recount lasting 139 days. MN90 producer Marisa Helms reports that when it comes to recounts, political gamesmanship never goes out of style.

Karl Rolvaag (center) at an event held in Worthington to welcome Robert F. Kennedy (center right) to Minnesota, ca. 1966. Walter Mondale sits second from the right.

Governor Karl Rolvaag with Iowa Governor Harold E. Hughes at the walleye-season opener at Gunflint Lake, May 15, 1965.

Lieutenant Governor Karl Rolvaag, ca. 1959.

Newly elected Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota Karl Rolvaag with Senator Henry M. Harren, 1957.

Karl and Florence Rolvaag, April 16, 1947.

Karl Rolvaag, 1940.

Karl Rolvag, 1965.