Rep. Ellison Issues Statement on Sen. Franken’s Resignation

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 -- Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minnesota, issued the following statement on the decision of Sen. Al Franken, D-Minnesota, to resign from the Senate:

"I commend the brave women who have come forward in recent weeks to share their experience of sexual harassment and assault. Their courage is immense, and has sparked a long overdue national reckoning with persistent inequities and injustices in our society.

"I am grateful for Al Franken's progressive record of accomplishment over the years--from his forceful advocacy for a free and open internet, to his important work helping to shape the Affordable Care Act, to his support for policies that improve the lives of women, including championing the Violence Against Women Act. Still, as elected officials, we must stand for safe communities and work environments for everyone.

"Sen. Franken's decision to resign shows a strength of character that other elected officials haven't. Al's decision is the right one, and will bring us one step closer towards a society of true justice and equality for all."