MINNEAPOLIS – Outgoing Sen. Al Franken thanked his staff and supporters in Minnesota on Thursday in his first public appearance in the state since announcing his resignation.
At a farewell event in Minneapolis, Franken re-lived many of his legislative efforts, and stayed silent on the sexual allegations that led to his resignation.
“Serving the people of Minnesota in the U.S. Senate has been the honor of my life,” he said. “I am here tonight to say, ‘Thank you.'”
While avoiding addressing his disgraced departure, Franken vowed to continue to “speak out for economic justice” and continue to work on issues ranging from net neutrality to climate change.
“I may be leaving the Senate, but I’m not giving up my voice,” Franken said.
Franken will officially resign on Tuesday, and his replacement, Lt. Gov. Tina Smith, will be sworn in on Wednesday.
Franken’s career in the Senate derailed after eight women came forward with sexual allegations against the senator. Radio news anchor Leeann Tweeden was the first to come forward, claiming Franken “kissed and groped” her without consent. Several other women accused the senator of inappropriate behavior including groping women during photo-ops.
