Mike Howard

Mike Howard is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Elected in 2018, he represents District 51A, which encompasses parts of the south-central Twin Cities metropolitan area, including the city of Richfield and sections of Minneapolis. A member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), Howard has focused on various legislative issues, particularly in the areas of housing and healthcare.

Early life and career

Mike Howard was born on February 17, 1983, in Becker, Minnesota. He grew up in a community that shaped his early understanding of local governance and public service. Howard pursued higher education at Augsburg College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. His interest in politics was evident during his college years when he interned for U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone's campaign in 2002, gaining firsthand experience in the political process.

Following his graduation, Howard began his career as a personal care assistant, providing support to children with autism. This role underscored his commitment to community service and advocacy for vulnerable populations. He subsequently became involved in political campaigns, working on Mike Freeman's 2006 campaign for Hennepin County Attorney. His early career also included a position as a legislative clerk in the Minnesota Senate, where he gained insight into the legislative process.

From 2007 to 2011, Howard served as a communications specialist for the Minnesota House DFL Caucus, where he honed his skills in public communication and legislative strategy. He later took on the role of public affairs manager at the Minnesota Department of Education for a brief period before returning to the House Caucus as public affairs director. In 2012, he was promoted to communications director, a position he held until 2016. During this time, he developed a strong understanding of the legislative landscape and built relationships within the political community.

In 2018, Howard was appointed as the Host Committee spokesman for Super Bowl LII, which took place in Minneapolis. This role further expanded his visibility and engagement within the community. Additionally, Howard served on the Richfield City Council from 2014 to 2018, where he was involved in various initiatives, including advocating for paid parental leave for city employees and promoting affordable housing. His tenure on the city council also included a brief period as interim mayor after the resignation of Mayor Debbie Goettel in 2016, during which he called for the implementation of body cameras for city police.

Legislative service

Howard was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2018, succeeding six-term DFL incumbent Linda Slocum, who chose not to seek reelection. Initially, Howard had announced his candidacy for the mayoral position in Richfield but shifted his focus to the House seat after Slocum endorsed him. Since taking office, he has been reelected every two years, reflecting his ongoing commitment to his constituents.

In the Minnesota House, Howard has taken on significant leadership roles. He currently chairs the Housing Finance and Policy Committee and serves on several other committees, including Rules and Legislative Administration, Taxes, and Ways and Means. His leadership positions have allowed him to influence key legislative priorities and initiatives, particularly in the realm of housing policy.

During his time in the House, Howard has been an advocate for various housing-related issues. He has emphasized the importance of addressing housing challenges in Minnesota, particularly the need for affordable housing and support for low-income residents. His committee work has involved the development and promotion of legislation aimed at increasing housing investments, improving eviction protections, and addressing racial disparities in housing access.

Policy focus and district

Howard's policy focus has been heavily centered on housing issues. As chair of the Housing Finance and Policy Committee, he has articulated the need for housing to be a top priority for the state. He has introduced a comprehensive $3 billion housing package designed to combat child homelessness, reduce racial disparities in housing, and increase the overall housing supply. His legislative efforts have included advocating for enhanced pre-eviction notice requirements, eviction expungement, and protections against discrimination for individuals utilizing Section 8 housing vouchers.

In addition to his housing initiatives, Howard has proposed a state-based rent subsidy program aimed at assisting low-income Minnesotans, addressing the financial burden that many residents face in affording rent. He has authored legislation to increase investments in rent subsidies and has supported funding for temporary shelters. His commitment to housing issues has been particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he advocated for a moratorium on evictions and sought to provide financial relief for renters and property owners affected by the crisis.

Another significant aspect of Howard's legislative agenda has been his work on healthcare affordability, particularly regarding insulin access. Before officially taking office, he announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at making insulin more affordable for Minnesotans. His efforts culminated in the passage of the "Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act," which established an emergency insulin program funded by fees on pharmaceutical companies. This legislation was motivated by the tragic story of Alec Smith, who died due to insulin rationing, highlighting the urgent need for affordable healthcare solutions.

Howard has also engaged in broader discussions around taxation and social issues. He co-wrote an op-ed opposing the full repeal of the tax on Social Security income in Minnesota and has supported tax increases on wealthier residents to fund education and housing initiatives. His legislative work has included sponsoring measures to ban for-profit immigration detention centers in Minnesota and supporting local ordinances aimed at protecting LGBTQ+ rights, such as the prohibition of conversion therapy in Bloomington.

Overall, Mike Howard's legislative career reflects a commitment to addressing critical issues affecting his constituents in District 51A, with a particular emphasis on housing, healthcare, and social justice. His ongoing service in the Minnesota House of Representatives positions him as a key figure in shaping policy that impacts the lives of many Minnesotans.