Franken Resignation Demanded

[donquixote99]

A number of Democratic senators have now called on Al Franken to resign from office, due to allegations of sexual harassment. I disagree with this position, because the allegations do not seem serious enough to me, given when they occurred.

What is alleged is, basically, some instances of 'copping a feel,' or being somewhat too kissy. Now if he was alleged to have been acting like this last week, that would indicate compulsion and very poor judgement, and insensitivity to evolving norms. But all this is said to have predated his political career.

If there were allegations of genital contact, or any attempt to coerce actual sex, that would be very serious. But the things talked about, to me, do not rise to the same level. Men should learn the rules are tighter going forward, but their full force should not be applied ex post facto.

Absent a showing of more serious and pervasive sexual victimization that I've heard of so far, Franken should be allowed to perform acts of contrition short of resignation.