Politics

Ethics Committee Opens Inquiry Into Franken

REUTERS/Craig Lassig

Amber Athey Podcast Columnist
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The Senate Ethics Committee has announced a “preliminary inquiry” into alleged sexual misconduct by Democratic Sen. Al Franken.

The committee released a statement on Thursday announcing the inquiry by its members, including Chairman Johnny Isakson (R-GA) and Vice Chairman Chris Coons (D-DE).

“The committee is aware of the recent allegations against Senator Al Franken, as well as the calls for an ethics investigation,” the statement said. “While the committee does not generally comment on pending matters or matters that may come before it, in this instance, the Committee is publicly confirming that it has opened a preliminary inquiry into Senator Franken’s alleged misconduct.”

Six women have accused Franken of sexual misconduct. TV anchor Leeann Tweeden, the first accuser, said Franken forcibly kissed her during a skit rehearsal. She also shared a photo that showed him groping her breasts while she was asleep. The other women alleged groping during public photo-ops.

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