Longtime Minnesota Republican State Senator Bruce Anderson passed away unexpectedly late last month at the age of 75. A U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War, Anderson devoted over three decades to public service in the Minnesota Legislature. He was first elected to the state House in 1994 and later won a seat in the Senate in 2012, representing Wright County along with parts of Hennepin and Meeker counties.

Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson (R-East Grand Forks) remembered Anderson as “a dedicated public servant, loving family man, and dear friend to many.” Anderson and his wife, Ruth, lived in Buffalo and raised a large family that included eight children and 14 grandchildren. Throughout his legislative career, Anderson was known for championing issues such as agriculture, veterans’ affairs, broadband access, and public safety.

Senate Democrats also paid tribute to Anderson’s legacy. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy and Senator Aric Putnam praised his military service and agricultural upbringing, describing him as a powerful advocate for both farmers and veterans. “He was a decent, kind colleague and a dedicated family man,” Murphy said, reflecting on her time serving alongside him in both chambers of the Legislature.

Anderson grew up on a dairy farm in rural Minnesota and continued his service beyond the Navy in the Minnesota Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserve. Former Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch, whom Anderson succeeded, called him a mentor and applauded his ability to connect with voters through hard work and thoughtful conversation.

Governor Tim Walz is expected to call a special election to fill Anderson’s Senate seat. A similar election will be held for the House seat of former Speaker Melissa Hortman, who was recently killed in a politically motivated attack.