Story highlights Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton would appoint a replacement if Franken resignsThat would set up a special election in November 2018(CNN) Should Sen. Al Franken decide to step down, his resignation would set up a gubernatorial appointment and open up a new Senate battleground in 2018. Should Franken step down, top names to replace him are Democratic Reps. Keith Ellison and Tim Walz, this official said. Dayton, a former US senator, might also tap his former colleagues for advice in his pick, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. "There will be an open line of communication," said the senior Democratic strategist.

Source: CNN December 06, 2017 20:15 UTC