Friends and neighbors,

As we ring in 2023, we celebrate the new year knowing it will bring its own challenges and perhaps exciting new opportunities. Each of us has unique goals for this year, but for everyone, it is an opportunity for fresh starts and new hopes.

For me, this year marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life. After serving for more than 20 years in state government, on Jan. 4, 2023, I will be retiring from the Minnesota Senate. I see it as an opportunity to restructure. Being a citizen, and caring about my government, is a lifelong duty.  What that may look like remains to be seen. I do so look forward to spending more time with Ralph and my family. 

I have found my work as an elected official from Big Lake Township, Secretary of State and in the Legislature, to be immensely meaningful and fulfilling.  Every time I entered the Capitol, it was with awe. As the oldest of a poor family of 14 kids, I never even aspired to think I could be in government, much less to walk those halls as an elected official. But my choice to go to nursing school gave me time as a Registered Nurse, which taught me great caring skills that came in handy in governance.

Serving as the voice and steward of my community has been an experience that I will always treasure. It has been my honor and privilege to serve as your State Senator.

I pray that 2023 brings you and your loved ones countless blessings.

From my family to yours, Happy New Year!

– Mary