Franken taps would-be chief of staff

Democrat Al Franken hired the second member of his would-be Senate staff, filling the highest-ranking position in the office by choosing a chief of staff.

Franken tapped Drew Littman, a former aide to Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and adjunct professor at American University, to head up his Senate office.

Franken is still locked in legal challenges with former Sen. Norm Coleman (R), who is contesting Franken’s lead in the 2008 Minnesota Senate race.

“With Drew leading our team, I know that my office will be able to uphold the Minnesota tradition of excellent and responsive constituent service,” Franken said in a statement. “With his years of experience and his expertise in helping new Senators hit the ground running, Drew has become a trusted adviser and a valuable resource as I prepare to take office.”

Littman has headed up Franken’s transition team as the election has worn on.