Franken Confirms 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.

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.