By: Don Driggers

Former US senator from Minnesota and SNL comedian Al Franken, who resigned from office in 2017 following accusations of sexual misconduct, is actively supporting the congressional campaign of his ex-top staffer, Josh Riley, in New York. Franken has been sending multiple fundraising appeals to boost Riley’s bid for Congress in New York’s 19th congressional district, where he is likely to face Republican incumbent Rep. Marc Molinaro in a rematch, NY Post reported.

Franken emphasizes Riley’s policy expertise and their past collaboration on positive initiatives, such as their work on the Violence Against Women Act to protect domestic violence survivors from homelessness. Franken encourages supporters to contribute to both the Voter Protection Project and Riley’s campaign, highlighting the significance of the race in the 2024 elections.

One of the women who accused Franken of sexual misconduct was Leeann Tweeden, a former radio host and Playboy model. She claimed Franken forcibly kissed her during a rehearsal for a skit on a USO tour and pretended to grab her breasts while she slept during a photo shoot.

Franken, 72, apologized for his behavior in the controversial photo, stating that he intended it to be humorous. Although he denied mistreating women, he expressed regret for resigning from the Senate.

New York’s Democratic senators, Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, were among those calling for Franken’s resignation. Republicans, including Rep. Molinaro and state Republican Party chairman Ed Cox, seized on Franken’s involvement in Riley’s campaign, criticizing the association and highlighting Franken’s past misconduct.

The Riley campaign did not provide a comment on the matter, and Franken had no immediate response to the criticism. Molinaro narrowly defeated Riley in the previous election by a margin of approximately 2 percentage points.

Apart from his involvement in politics, Franken hosts the Al Franken Podcast and operates Midwest Values PAC, a political action committee that supports Democrats and other non-political initiatives.

Al Franken, born on May 21, 1951, in New York City, is an American comedian, writer, and politician. Known for his satirical style and sharp wit, Franken rose to fame as a cast member on the television show “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) in the 1970s and 1980s. He became renowned for his memorable characters and comedic sketches, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Before becoming a senator Franken also tried is hand in political talk radio, on failed liberal network Air America, which was the left’s answer to popular conservative hosts like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity. MSNBC propagandist Rachel Maddow originated from the network.

Beyond his success in the entertainment industry, Franken transitioned into politics. In 2008, he was elected as the junior United States Senator from Minnesota, representing the Democratic Party. Throughout his time in the Senate, Franken focused on various issues, including healthcare, consumer protection, and women’s rights.

Following his resignation, Franken has remained active in the public sphere, hosting the Al Franken Podcast and engaging in political commentary. He also established the Midwest Values PAC to support Democratic candidates and progressive causes.