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ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - Sen. Al Franken delivered his final speech on the U.S. Senate floor Thursday morning, wrapping up a successful and at times turbulent political career marred in recent months by several allegations of sexual misconduct.
At times emotional and at others defiant, Franken highlighted the role his wife Franni has played in his political life and the government programs that have helped her family over the years.
“The federal government gave my wife’s family the boots,” Franken said. “And that’s why I’m a Democrat.”
Sen. Al Franken will officially resign on Jan. 2, replaced by current Lt. Gov. Tina Smith until a special election can be held next November.
His fall ultimately came after a picture was released by Los Angeles radio personality and former model Leann Tweeden showing Franken, hands outstretched and a grin to match, groping the sleeping woman during a USO tour before Franken’s election to the Senate.
After more women came forward alleging misconduct, Franken's senate colleagues urged him to resign. Governor Dayton commended him for sticking with his decision to step down on Thursday.
Despite these allegations, some of his colleagues say that Franken's legacy will live on in the work that he's done during his nearly eight and a half years in public service.
“When Al leaves here, he will not be quieted in any way,” Sen. Amy Klobuchar said. “His work will live on. His voice will be stronger than ever.”
With his final words on the floor, he laid the foundation for his successor Tina Smith.
“As I leave the Senate I take great comfort knowing that my successor, Senator-Designate Tina Smith, has a well-earned reputation for being a smart, diligent, hardworking public servant,” Franken said. “I have no doubt that Sen. Smith will serve Minnesotans and all Americans exceptionally well.”
When Tina Smith becomes Senator on Jan. 3, Senate President Michelle Fischbach will become Lt. Governor. The Attorney General’s office issued an opinion on Thursday saying she cannot hold both roles, like she would like to do.
Republicans claimed that an 1898 Supreme Court decision would allow her to serve as both the Senate president and the Lt. Governor. The Solicitor General said no—the role of the Lt. Governor has changed since that decision. The decision will likely be determined by the courts.