On Tuesday, Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) was officially sworn in to the Minnesota Senate. Senator Howe, who was elected in a November special election for the seat formerly held by Lieutenant Governor Michelle Fischbach, represents District 13, which includes communities in Benton and Stearns counties.
“It’s an honor to serve the people of Benton and Stearns counties in the Minnesota Senate. I’m grateful to the people of District 13 for placing their trust in me,” said Senator Howe. “Now, it’s time to get to work on the many issues facing Minnesotans. Whether it’s fixing our roads and bridges, keeping our communities safe, or honoring our veterans, my commitment is serving my constituents to the best of my ability – just as I’ve done for the past six years in the Minnesota House of Representatives.”
“Jeff Howe is a man of integrity and committed to public service. He’s going to make a tremendous addition to the Senate,” said Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka (R-Nisswa). “From serving our country in uniform to serving his constituents in St. Paul, Senator Howe brings an impressive legacy to the table. I know he will be an effective representative for his district and the people of Minnesota.”
Senator Howe began his career in the United States Navy as an avionics technician aboard the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk. He was deployed to Iran during the Iranian Hostage Crisis and served two decorated tours in Iraq. In 2017, after 38 years of service, Senator Howe retired from the Minnesota Army National Guard as a lieutenant colonel and deputy commander of the 175th Regiment Regional Training Institute. Senator Howe also spent 27 years in the fire service, serving on three departments in various positions including firefighter, fire marshal, fire and emergency management coordinator, and fire chief, before retiring in 2011.
Senator Howe and his wife, Sheri, have four grown children and make their home in Rockville.