Elmer Austin Benson Rank
About Elmer Austin Benson
A political maverick, a lawyer, and U.S. Senator, Elmer Austin Benson was the 24th Governor of Minnesota, serving from 1937 to 1939. He secured that position by winning over 58% of the vote.
Early Life
Benson was born in a midwestern community in Minnesota. He attended the St. Paul College of Law and served in the United States Army for a year. After his discharge from the army, he pursued a career in banking and the retail business.
Career
His involvement in politics began in the early 1930s. Benson served as the state commissioner of banks in 1933 and just two years later, he was appointed to fill the vacancy in the United States Senate created by the death of Republican Thomas Schall.
Benson was selected by his party, the Farmer-Labor Party, to run for governor. He won the elections and became the governor of Minnesota, serving from January 4, 1937 to January 2, 1939. Benson proposed a tax increase for the wealthy in order to finance the unemployed and advocated better pay for workers. He was defeated by Republican candidate Harold Stassen in the gubernatorial election on November 8, 1938. Benson was also defeated twice in his run for the Senate in 1940 and 1942.
Death
This progressive politician died in 1985.
Elmer Austin Benson Rank
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F.A.Q. about Elmer Austin Benson
When is his birthday?
Elmer Austin Benson's birthday is on September 22, 1895.
In how many days is his birthday?
Elmer's birthday is in 156 days
How old was Elmer when he died?
He was 89 years old.
When did he die?
He died in March 13, 1985.
How old would he be today?
Elmer Austin Benson would be 128 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Elmer from?
He was born in Appleton, Minnesota, U.S..