| 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(s) | Patricia "Pat" Stolquist |
| Children | Patty, Florian Jr., Jeffry, and Mark |
| Residence | Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota |
| Alma mater | University of Minnesota |
| Occupation | Television Executive Musician |
| Religion | Roman Catholic |
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]
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Jerome M. Hughes |
President of the Minnesota Senate 1987 |
Succeeded by Jerome M. Hughes |
|
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