US congressman announces resignation over sexual harassment allegations

Minnesota Democratic Senator Al Franken has announced his resignation following a series of sexual harassment allegations in his past. The former comedian has denied any wrongdoing as a senator.

Minnesota Democratic Senator Al Franken - Photo: REUTERS

Mr. Franken, 66, was once considered a rising star in the Democratic Party before being caught up in allegations three weeks ago that he groped and kissed them without consent.

"From the bottom of my heart, as a Senator, I have done nothing wrong to bring disgrace to the United States Congress. However, today, I announce that in the next few weeks, I will leave my position in the Senate," Reuters quoted Mr. Franken's statement on December 7 (US time).

Mr. Franken's vacant Senate seat will be filled by Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton, a Democrat who said he would make a decision in the coming days.

After the initial sexual harassment allegations, Mr. Franken said he was ashamed of his actions but would not resign. He vowed to cooperate with a Senate ethics investigation and work to regain the trust of Minnesotans.

But pressure from fellow senators, including Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and female senators, suddenly increased on December 7 after Mr. Franken continued to deny another allegation.

"Some of the allegations against me are not true. Others I remember are completely different," Mr. Franken did not deny but also did not admit to the alleged behavior.

According to Tuoi Tre