My Background

I grew up in a close-knit family where my parents lived their values. As a child, I was lucky to travel to many countries. I learned to appreciate the diversity and richness with which families and communities solve the universal challenges of daily life. That experience of understanding other people’s points of view was a valuable life lesson.

I graduated from New York University with a degree in metropolitan studies and urban planning. Doing post-graduate work on the Audubon Society’s national energy plan sharpened my interest in green jobs and green energy. The environmental, economic and social consequences of land use, redevelopment and zoning fascinated me as I worked in commercial real estate in New York City. Specializing in leasing space for United Nations embassies, trade organizations, and nonprofits taught me how to achieve solutions for demanding clients with unique needs.

In 1991, my wife Elizabeth and I established Minnesota’s first paint-your-own-pottery business. Our seven-year experience as owners and managers of Doin’ the Dishes gave me a thorough understanding of the challenges and rewards of running a small business. Liz and I sold our flourishing operation so we could share more family time when our sons Jack and Eddy were born.

My Service In the Legislature

In 2006 I decided to run for the Minnesota House of Representatives. I lost count of how many people told me that I was nuts, since no Democrat had been elected to the legislature from the Bloomington-Edina area in decades. I decided to run anyway, and I lost!

However I learned something important. Reaching out to the voters and talking to thousands of them on their front porches isn’t just the right thing to do; it can create change.

In 2008 I ran again—and I won! Some people said it was a miracle. Baloney! I won by talking to the voters about the issues that were most important to them.

So I ran for re-election in 2010. In a very close race, I lost. I was disappointed but not intimidated.

I ran again in 2012, 2014, and 2016—and each time I won!

I left the legislature in 2018. Jack and Eddy were both in High School and fast approaching college. I took a job as Director of External Affairs with a non-profit education company. I was in charge of ten states and advocated for students at state capitols across the country.

I learned a lot during my four terms in the Minnesota House. With an overall goal of growing Minnesota jobs, my legislative work focused on helping small businesses, strengthening education and health care, protecting the environment, developing transportation infrastructure, and building fairness into all governmental decisions.

Called To Serve Again

Lots of people, on both sides of the aisle, helped me to master the numerous technical details of framing legislation and getting stuff done. However one stands out—Melissa Hortman. She was elected to her first term in 2006, so she had a head start on me. She gave generously of her time and helped me to climb up the legislative learning curve. She was a tremendous leader and a wonderful friend. Like countless other people, I was shocked when she and her husband were murdered. We will never forget her! I feel called to stand up and serve again, in the ways that she taught me and so many others, and to carry on her legacy.

In a crisis like the present, I can’t just watch from the sidelines. I intend to run full-blast to keep Senate District 50 Democratic and to do the best I can for all Minnesotans!