Minnesota Lt. Gov. Tina Smith has been selected to replace Al Franken in the Senate.
Gov. Mark Dayton announced Wednesday morning that Smith has been appointed to the position.
"Though I never anticipated this moment," Smith said, "I am resolved to do everything I can to move Minnesota forward, and I will be a fierce advocate in the United States Senate for the economic opportunity and fairness."
"This is a difficult moment for us. But even now, I am filled with optimism for Minnesota," she added.
The announcement comes following Franken's December 7 decision to resign from office over allegations that he touched women inappropriately.
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