As we prepare to chart a new course for the Minnesota Republican Party, I want to share more about myself, my qualifications, and why I believe I am the right person to lead our party as our next Chair.

I am the proud son of a dedicated Air Force veteran who served our country for 42 years. My father taught me the values of duty, responsibility, and integrity. My mother, an immigrant from the Netherlands, instilled in me the power of perseverance and grit. She waited 29 years to become a U.S. citizen, and her journey taught me the importance of never giving up, no matter how long the path may be.

Though I initially planned to become a police officer, a back injury after college shifted my course. Instead, I found my calling in entrepreneurship. For nearly 20 years, I have been a small business owner in the printing, marketing, and logistics industry. This experience taught me how to lead teams, manage budgets, and solve challenges with creativity and determination—all skills I now bring to every leadership role I take on.

My wife, Gloria, and I are passionate about serving. Gloria is an elected member of the Centennial School Board and actively serves on the Park Board and Planning and Zoning Commission. I have served on the Lexington City Council since 2016, Mayor 2019-2022, and I am honored to have recently been elected Mayor again. Together, we are raising our daughters, Eleanor (4) and Evelyn (1), to grow into strong, independent women who value family, contribute to their community, and always strive to make a positive difference in this world, no matter the impact.

When I’m not working or serving my community, I love spending time with my family, exploring photography, traveling, or heading to my family’s land in Sandstone. Whether I’m driving the tractor, riding ATVs, hunting, or fishing. At my core, I am someone who believes in hard work, integrity, and taking action. These values guide everything I do—whether running a business, leading in public office, or raising a family.