ST. PAUL — The state has denied unemployment benefits for a Republican Senate staffer who was fired following an affair with the majority leader.

Michael Brodkorb is appealing the decision to reject his claim. Brodkorb’s lawyer, Phil Villaume, said that the matter is privileged and private.

“Since Mr. Brodkorb was unlawfully terminated at a public restaurant, representatives in the Minnesota Senate and others in state government have continually violated his privacy rights afforded to him as a state employee,” Villaume said.

Unemployment benefits applications are considered private as is the decision about whether to grant them. But the matter becomes public if a person appeals a denial. A hearing is set for Thursday.

An official with the Department of Employment and Economic Development declined comment on Brodkorb’s case.