After 32 Democratic senators called for Al Franken, the Democratic senator from Minnesota, to resign due to sexual misconduct allegations against him, Minnesota's MPR News reported that he is likely to step down on Thursday, December 7. According to Reuters, however, the senator's office stated that Franken has not made a final decision and is still consulting with his family. Three weeks ago, after reports emerged regarding allegations from at least six women about inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct by Senator Franken, he stated that he would not resign from the U.S. Senate and would work to regain the trust of the people of Minnesota whom he represents. However, following a new allegation against him on Wednesday, six Democratic women senators initially called for Franken's resignation in separate statements. The number of Democratic senators calling for his resignation continued to grow, with reports indicating that at least 32 have now requested it. Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic minority leader, stated in a statement: 'I consider Senator Al Franken a dear and respected friend, but he has more important responsibilities to the people of his district and to the Senate, and he must resign immediately.' Franken also tweeted that he would make an announcement on Thursday but did not provide further details. On Wednesday evening, Politico reported that Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton is likely to appoint Tina Smith as Franken's replacement until the Senate election in 2018. Al Franken is among several male politicians, artists, and activists who have faced allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct against women in recent months. Politico reported on Wednesday that a congressional aide stated that Franken attempted to forcibly kiss her in 2006, which he denied. Franken, a former comedian, was elected as a senator from Minnesota in 2008. Meanwhile, John Conyers, a Democratic representative from Michigan facing sexual harassment allegations, has announced he will resign. In related news, new sexual harassment allegations against Kevin Spacey have emerged, and the British Defense Minister resigned amid a sexual harassment scandal. Time magazine named 'Silence Breakers' as Person of the Year.
Increased Calls for Democratic Senator's Resignation Due to Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Democratic Senator Al Franken faces increasing pressure to resign following multiple sexual misconduct allegations, with at least 32 senators calling for his resignation. This situation highlights the ongoing issues of sexual harassment in politics and the growing accountability for such behavior.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Democratic Senator Al Franken is facing increasing pressure to resign due to multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, with at least 32 senators calling for his resignation. Franken initially resisted resigning but is now likely to step down following new allegations.
- At least six women have accused Franken of inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct.
- Franken's potential resignation could lead to a shift in the Senate's Democratic representation.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The allegations against Franken are part of a larger movement against sexual harassment that has gained momentum in various sectors, including politics and entertainment.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%