Al Franken Speaks Out on Groping Allegations: ‘I’m Embarrassed and Ashamed’

In the midst of numerous accusations that he inappropriately groped at least four women over the years, Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) has maintained a very low profile. He finally decided to publicly address these allegations when he reached out to Minnesota media outlets on Sunday to discuss the matter and his future plans.

Speaking to the Minnesota Star Tribune, Franken said that he is “looking forward to getting back to work tomorrow” while expressing shame and embarrassment over his actions.

“I’m embarrassed and ashamed,” he stated. “I’ve let a lot of people down and I’m hoping I can make it up to them and gradually regain their trust.”

The Minnesota lawmaker insisted that he has taken thousands of photos over the years and doesn’t remember grabbing any women by the buttocks, which has been alleged by several women. “This is not something I would intentionally do,” he added.

Franken also said that he knows he has a “lot of work to do to regain the trust of the people” he has let down.

Following Leeann Tweeden coming forward earlier this month with allegations that Franken forcibly kissed and groped her during a USO tour in 2006, three other women came out to accuse Franken of grabbing and groping them on the backside. Franken has responded to these accusations via written statements and has largely been out of public view since the Senate recessed for Thanksgiving break.

[image via screengrab]

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Follow Justin Baragona on Twitter: @justinbaragona

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