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Al Franken

Al Franken is an American politician, comedian, author, and former radio host who served as a U.S.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Al Franken is an American politician, comedian, author, and former radio host who served as a U.S. senator from Minnesota from 2009 to 2018. Before entering politics, he was best known for his writing and performing on Saturday Night Live and for political satire. He resigned from the Senate in January 2018 after sexual misconduct allegations.

Early life and entertainment career

Franken was born in New York City and became known for his work in comedy and political satire. He spent years writing for and performing on Saturday Night Live, and later worked as an author and radio commentator.

Political career

Franken entered electoral politics as a Democrat and was elected to the U.S. Senate from Minnesota in 2008. He later won reelection in 2014 and served on several Senate committees. His 2008 Senate race was decided by 312 votes after a close recount process.

Resignation from the Senate

In December 2017, Franken announced that he would resign amid sexual misconduct allegations. His resignation took effect in January 2018.

Public image and later work

Franken was known for combining comedy with liberal political commentary. After leaving the Senate, he remained active in public life, including through media and podcasting. His work has been discussed alongside that of other figures, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Chrystia Freeland, and Olivia Chow.

Key facts

  • Franken first became widely known as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live.
  • He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008 and took office in 2009.
  • He won reelection in 2014.
  • His 2008 Senate race was decided by 312 votes after a close recount process.
  • He resigned from the Senate in January 2018 following sexual misconduct allegations.
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Canadian context

Franken is mainly relevant to Canadian readers as a prominent figure in U.S. politics and North American media, especially through his comedy, books, and commentary on American political issues.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Al Franken?
Al Franken is an American politician, comedian, author, and former U.S. senator from Minnesota.
What is Al Franken known for?
He is best known for Saturday Night Live, political satire, and his later career in the U.S. Senate.
When did Al Franken serve in the Senate?
He served from 2009 to 2018.
Why did Al Franken resign?
He resigned after sexual misconduct allegations were made against him.
Which state did Al Franken represent?
He represented Minnesota in the U.S. Senate.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Franken
    Supports: Birth name, career overview, Senate service, and resignation context.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Al-Franken
    Supports: Biographical basics, political party, and Senate service dates.
  3. Ballotpedia — https://ballotpedia.org/Al_Franken
    Supports: Election history, Senate term, and resignation timing.
  4. AlFranken.com — https://www.alfranken.com/about
    Supports: Self-described career background, Senate committees, books, and post-Senate activities.