A Unique Minnesota Story

A Proud Lifelong Minnesotan

I grew up in the outskirts of Mankato with the hardworking middle class. My grandparents, uncle and aunt lived just down the street where I grew up making raising me and my siblings a team effort - and I wouldn't have it any other way!

In school, I got involved in track and field, skiing, and staying active. I eventually tried my hand at higher education before moving to the Twin Cities and pursing a professional career in transportation logistics. I am still a member of the middle class, and I understand what it is like to be concerned about the price of groceries, gas, and housing. If elected, I will be uniquely positioned to voice the concerns of the people's struggles in 66A!

Grew Up In My Own "Modern Family"

Our family has joked for quite sometime for being the real-life "Modern Family" from the hit TV show series. I am the eldest of four, with one biological brother, and two adopted sisters. I also happen to be gay! I've gotten a front row seat to the unfortunate reality that other people think and treat you differently simply because of how you look or your preferences. We've come a long was as a society, but we have more work to do. Let's do it through compassion and dignity for all people!

Served Our Community in the National Guard

When I graduated high school, I followed in the footsteps of previous generations that also had the calling to serve our state and country. I joined the Minnesota National Guard and served for 6 years. My last assignment was helping calm the civil unrest that overtook the Twin Cities in the summer of 2020. Unfortunately, I was unable to resign for another term due to my blood cancer diagnosis. I am happy to report that after treatment and a stem cell transplant, I am healthy and in remission.

A Young Cancer Survivor

When I was just 25, I fell down while walking and broke my arm. Coupled after a few months of side pain, an emergency room doctor said something wasn't right. Unfortunately, after testing and what seemed like days of waiting, I got the unfortunate news that I was diagnosed with an uncurable - yet treatable - blood cancer called Multiple Myeloma.

I had to go through extension treatments and a stem cell transplant to save my life. I am blessed to get the response others have only hoped for - full complete remission with no sign of the disease to date. Minnesota has a world renowned medical system - and I was the beneficiary of it. If we don't continue to encourage scientific advances through compassionate free market principles, my wish of a cure someday could evaporate. I will fight tooth and nail to keep our medical institutions some of the best class in the world - while also working with legislators to make sure everyone has the financial tools to have a fighting chance like I did.

My Partner and I Love Our Community

I have lived in Lauderdale, MN with my partner Zak for almost 6 years. We have loved living here ever since we moved in. The people are wonderful and the community feel here is second to none. I want to make sure that those that come after us get to enjoy our cities as much as I have.

Ready To Tackle Challenges that Count for Struggling Minnesotans

I know what it's like to get medical bills that seem insurmountable all while juggling the expenses of gas, food, and housing. The current economic conditions are insane - but they are not without remedy. I'll be ready to help on Day One.