On. Sen. Franken The New Yorker Gets It Wrong

His Resignation Would Not Be Retribution

Given that he has admitted wrong doing (although it is impossible not when their is photographic evidence) the question is whether or not Sen. Al Franken (D. Mn) should remain in the Senate. He should not.

A writer for The New Yorker though takes issue.

But maybe “Should Al Franken resign?” is the wrong question.

The question frames the conversation in terms of retribution, but it is not possible to hold to account every man who has ever behaved disrespectfully and disgustingly toward a woman. Nor even every senator, or every comedian. And, even if it were possible to punish every single one of them, what would be accomplished? Punishment, especially when it is delayed, is not a very effective deterrent.

The problem with the above is that leaving the Senate is not punishment or retribution. Serving in the Senate is a privilege. It is an honor. It is a position of leadership. Out of more than 300 million people in the nation it is one of 100. Asking Mr. Franken to leave the Senate simply reaffirms the belief that the men and women who serve the nation in elected office should be more than just people not convicted of a crime. They should have honor and dignity. Sen. Franken has neither.

Supporting progressive legislation is not enough to qualify a person who behaves improperly for the Senate just as supporting conservative legislation is not enough to vote for someone who aspires to the Senate who has also behaved inappropriately towards women.