Washington (CNN) Minnesota Lt. Gov. Tina Smith has been selected to replace Al Franken in the Senate. Gov. Mark Dayton, a Minnesota Democrat, announced Wednesday morning that Smith has been appointed to a one-year term in the Senate, which will conclude in January 2019. Smith, thought to be a leading contender to replace Franken, accepted the appointment. "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," Smith, a Democrat, added.The governor of Minnesota said appointed Tina Smith to replace Sen. Al FrankenFranken is accused of inappropriate sexual conduct with women
This is the record for women in the upper chamber, which _ will increase upon taking office.