Sen. Al Franken apologized Thursday amid allegations that the Minnesota Democrat had groped women at campaign events — admitting that he “crossed a line” in some instances when embracing constituents.
The Minnesota Democrat, accused by four women of creepily touching them, issued his most detailed statement yet in explaining how he made such unwanted contact.
“I’ve met tens of thousands of people and taken thousands of photographs, often in crowded and chaotic situations. I’m a warm person; I hug people,” according to Franken.
“I’ve learned from recent stories that in some of those encounters, I crossed a line for some women — and I know that any number is too many. Some women have found my greetings or embraces for a hug or photo inappropriate, and I respect their feelings about that.”
Franken has yet to grant a formal interview to any reporter since groping allegations were made against him.
“I’ve thought a lot in recent days about how that could happen, and recognize that I need to be much more careful and sensitive in these situations,” according to his statement.
“I feel terribly that I’ve made some women feel badly and for that I am so sorry, and I want to make sure that never happens again.”
The former “Saturday Night Live” funnyman vowed to win back the trust of his state, implying he’s not stepping down from the seat he’s held for two terms.
“And let me say again to Minnesotans that I’m sorry for putting them through this and I’m committed to regaining their trust,” Franken said.
Franken’s political woes took center stage this past Friday, when Los Angeles radio host Leeann Tweeden said the “SNL” vet forcibly kissed her during a USO tour in 2006.
He also snapped a humiliating picture of Tweeden sleeping — and Franken pretending to grope her breasts.