The Minnesota Senate welcomed its newest member Wednesday as former s Rep. Lyle Koenen took the oath of office.

Senators and guests applauded as Koenen took the oath that will allow him to finish out the final weeks of the term of the late Sen. Gary Kubly, DFL-Granite Falls,who died in March from complications from ALS.

"I'd like to say thank you to the voters of Senate District 20 for allowing me the honor of completing Senator Kubly's term. That is something that is very special and I sure appreciate that," said Koenen, DFL-Clara City, who also thanked his family for their help and "tolerance" during his campaign for the seat

"Senator Kubly was someone no one could replace," he continued. "But he was what I would consider the perfect example on how legislators should conduct themselves. It's the example I intend to follow (during) my duties here in the Minnesota Senate. So thank you."

Then the newly sworn-in DFL senator from Clara City and his new colleagues headed to the retiring room for cake.