A MAN OF THE PEOPLE

A lifelong resident of Western Minnesota, I grew up in Browns Valley with my parents and identical twin brother, Jay. During high school, we started our own lawn business. We also worked with our father in his independent mechanic business as well as working with area farmers. The money we saved was used to help pay for college. In 1990, my twin brother and I started our business, BW Inc., in Browns Valley. Like most small businesses in greater Minnesota, we’ve experienced both good years and challenging years. Through it all, we’ve worked hard to provide good products at fair prices and treat our employees like family. I’m proud to say we’ve succeeded. In 1991, I graduated from St. Cloud State University with two degrees, Chemistry and Public Administration. Two years later, I married my wife, Judy Gnifkowski. We have been married 22 years and have one daughter, Brittany, age 19. Since 1995 I have served as a volunteer EMT for the Browns Valley Ambulance. For the last 16 years, I have taught Bible study to fifth and sixth graders at Zion Lutheran Church in Browns Valley, where I am an active member. 

In 2000 I was elected to the City Council. I served in that capacity until 2004 when I was elected as Mayor, and served three terms. During that time we found ways to keep taxes down, combine services and worked extremely hard to cut costs. We also successfully started the Westside Floodway Diversion project. This flood relief, project serves South Dakota and Minnesota and protects the citizens of Browns Valley from future flooding. I have also served as a member of the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Browns Valley Lions Club and Browns Valley School District 801. I would describe myself as a commonsense conservative. I believe in efficient and effective government that spends money wisely on important state priorities. However, it must also be held in check to ensure personal responsibility and to protect individual liberties.

On social issues, I am pro-life and support traditional marriage. I am a strong supporter of our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. I hope this information provides you with background to know my core principles and where I will stand on issues important to you. Please feel free to contact me at Jeff@JeffBacker.com if you want to know more about my position on any issue not discussed here, or to volunteer or to assist us in some way.

I respectfully ask for your vote. Sincerely, Jeff Backer

www.JeffBacker.com | home: 320-695-2641 | mobile: 701-361-1909