Overview

• State Sen. Bruce Anderson died unexpectedly on July 21 at age 75, his GOP colleagues announced.
• He represented Wright, Hennepin and Meeker counties since joining the Senate in 2013 after serving in the House from 1995 to 2012.
• Anderson focused on agriculture, rural economic development, broadband expansion and veterans’ issues, drawing on his Navy service and farm upbringing.
• Gov. Tim Walz must call a special election to fill the vacancy created by Anderson’s death.
• Lawmakers from both parties praised Anderson’s dedication and compassion, and his family has asked for privacy pending a formal statement.