Florian Chmielewski
Florian Chmielewski | |
|---|---|
| 5th President of the Minnesota Senate | |
| In office 1987 | |
| Preceded by | Jerome M. Hughes |
| Succeeded by | Jerome M. Hughes |
| Minnesota State Senator | |
| In office January 1971 – January 1997 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 10, 1927 |
| Political party | Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party |
| Spouse | Patricia "Pat" Stolquist |
| Children | Florian Jr., Jeffrey,Mark, and Patty |
| Residence | Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota |
| Alma mater | University of Minnesota |
| Occupation | Television Executive Musician Politician |
Florian W. Chmielewski, Sr. (born February 10, 1927) is a Minnesota musician, politician, a former legislator, and a former President of the Minnesota Senate.
Chmielewski was elected to the Senate in 1970, becoming chair of the employment committee in 1981. During a special session in 1987, Chmielewski was elected to serve as president, due to the absence of State Sen. Jerome M. Hughes, who both preceded and succeeded Chmielewski in the position.[1]
In 1996, Chmielewski became embroiled in the "phonegate" scandal. It was revealed that Chmielewski had given family members state long-distance access codes, allowing them to make phone calls at state expense. Chmielewski was ultimately defeated for re-election in 1996, after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor.[2]
Chmielewski continues to work as an accordion player with the Chmielewski Family Funtime Band, performing polka music throughout the midwest.[3]
References
Presidents of the Minnesota Senate | ||
|---|---|---|
| Lt. Governor (1858–1973) |  | |
| Senate-elected (1973–present) | ||