News

Atlanta Book Festival: Sen. Al Franken Has Canceled Monday Appearance

November 17th, 2017

U.S. Sen. Al Franken had been scheduled to speak at Monday’s closing night of the two-week Book Festival of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta.

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

Organizers of a major book festival in Atlanta where U.S. Sen. Al Franken was scheduled to speak say the senator has abruptly canceled his appearance.

Los Angeles radio news anchor Leeann Tweeden alleged Thursday that the former comedian forcibly kissed her while rehearsing for a 2006 USO tour performance and later was photographed reaching out to grope Tweeden as she slept during a flight.

Franken apologized to Tweeden and said he would welcome an ethics inquiry.

The Minnesota Democrat had been scheduled to speak Monday night, the closing night of the two-week Book Festival of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta.

Keely Sime, the center’s marketing director, said Friday that festival organizers received word Thursday that Franken would not attend his sold-out appearance.

Tickets for Franken’s appearance ranged from $32 to $75 for VIP access, and included a copy of the senator’s book “Al Franken, Giant of the Senate.” Sime said the center is contacting those who purchased tickets.

Fellow Democrats have condemned Franken’s actions, mindful of the current climate as well as the prospect of political blowback. Democrats and Republicans have called for the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate.

President Donald Trump weighed in, too, saying Franken just last week was lecturing people on sexual harassment and respect for women.