by Dennis Dalman
news@thenewsleaders.com
Emily Jensen, a coach who lives in St. Joseph, has announced her candidacy for the seat in Minnesota House District 13A, which is now served by Rep. Jeff Howe (R-Rockville).
Jensen is a coach for the St. Cloud YMCA swim team. She also coaches the Sartell High School speech team.
District 13A includes St. Joseph, Avon, Collegeville, Rockville, Cold Spring, Kimball, Paynesville and 11 townships.
“I am running for the Minnesota House District 13A seat because it’s time to give politics back to the people,” Jensen said in a statement. “Our state representative should be accessible, visible and engaged with our district. Join me in giving our community a voice.”
Jensen said family and friends have encouraged her to run for the legislative seat so she can help improve education, boost job opportunities and support issues that would strengthen families.
“I want the kids I coach to have every opportunity to succeed,” she said.
If elected, Jensen said she would work to expand apprenticeships, support accessible vocational and technical training, and fight for affordable college for anyone who wants to attend.
Jensen majored in political science at the College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University.
“I come from a hard-working middle-class family, and I understand the importance of making sure career and family work together,” she said.
contributed photo
Emily Jensen