Not even two months after resigning his Senate seat following multiple allegations of sexual harassment, former Sen. Al Franken is planning a return.
In a thank-you letter sent out to supporters last week, Franken conveniently avoided addressing any of the allegations against him, instead saying it’s been a “tough few months” not being a senator.
“This has been a tough few months,” Franken wrote. “I can’t tell you how hard it was to step away from serving in the United States Senate – the best job I’ve ever had.”
Franken resigned in disgrace after eight women accused the senator of sexual assault. Since announcing his resignation, Franken has failed to address the shocking accusations, instead focusing on continuing his involvement in politics.
“We have to fight this administration and its far-right agenda,” Franken wrote. “I know that you are going to keep fighting to make that progress. And I want you to know that I’m going to be right there alongside you, every step of the way.”
Franken plugged the re-election of Minnesota’s two Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. Smith was appointed by Gov. Mark Dayton as a short-term replacement for Franken and faces a special election this fall. Republican state Sen. Karin Housley is challenging Smith, hoping to flip the seat for the last two years of Franken’s term.
Franken continues to hint at returning to the world of politics, saying he is looking for ways to be involved during this “critical election year.” However, the disgraced former senator is not ready to specifically answer “what’s next” yet.
“Over the last few weeks, I’ve heard from a lot of people who want to know what I’m doing next and how they can help,” Franken said. “It’s a good question, and one I’m not quite ready to answer yet.”
