Al Franken Accused of Sexual Misconduct

Leeann Tweeden, a model and broadcast host, said the incident with Al Franken occurred in December 2006 during a USO tour overseas.

Sen. Al Franken (D., Minn.) faced allegations of sexual misconduct Thursday, after a woman said he kissed her against her will during a 2006 rehearsal and he posed for a photo in which he appeared to grope her while she was asleep.

Mr. Franken said he didn’t recall the rehearsal events occurring the same way but offered his “sincerest apologies.” He said the photo was a failed joke and he “shouldn’t have done it.”

The allegation comes as the Senate Republican leadership is grappling with the claims of sexual misconduct against Roy Moore, the GOP nominee in the Senate race in Alabama. Mr. Moore has denied the allegations and refused to step aside in the race, but Senate Republicans say they plan to try to expel him if he wins the election.

Mr. Franken is the only sitting senator to currently face a public accusation of sexual misconduct. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) called for a review of the Franken matter.

“As with all credible allegations of sexual harassment or assault, I believe the Ethics Committee should review the matter,” Mr. McConnell (R., Ky.) said. “I hope the Democratic Leader will join me on this. Regardless of party, harassment and assault are completely unacceptable—in the workplace or anywhere else.”

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