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Al Franken Confirms Senate Seat Handover To Smith In Early January

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Sen. Al Franken has confirmed that he expects his replacement, Democratic Lt. Gov. Tina Smith, to take over his seat in early January.

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Tina Smith and Al Franken
Tina Smith and Al Franken (credit: CBS)

Franken, a Democrat, said last week he would resign "in coming weeks" following allegations by several women of sexual misconduct.

Gov. Mark Dayton on Wednesday appointed Smith to take his place until a special election next November to complete the final two years of Franken's term.

A statement from Franken's office says Smith is expected to be in place in early January. A spokesman says Franken has not set a specific date to step down.

Smith has said she will run in the special election.

(© Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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