Jeff Backer

Jeff Backer is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 9A. A member of the Republican Party, he has held this office since 2015. Backer’s district encompasses parts of western Minnesota, including the city of Fergus Falls, as well as Grant, Traverse, and Wilkin Counties, and portions of Otter Tail County. Over the years, he has been involved in various local and state political initiatives, focusing on issues related to agriculture, health care, and regulatory policies.

Early life and career

Jeff Backer was born on January 3, 1967, in Browns Valley, Minnesota. He grew up in this small town and completed his secondary education at Browns Valley High School. Following high school, he pursued higher education at St. Cloud State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and public administration.

Backer has a longstanding commitment to public service, which is evident from his early involvement in local governance and community initiatives. He has served as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for the Browns Valley Ambulance since 1995, demonstrating his dedication to the health and safety of his community. His public service career includes a significant tenure on the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training from 2007 to 2010, where he contributed to the oversight and regulation of law enforcement training in the state.

In addition to his state-level service, Backer has held various positions within local government. He was elected to the Browns Valley City Council in 2000 and subsequently became the mayor in 2004, a role he maintained until 2010. During his mayoral tenure, he faced significant challenges, including a major flood in 2007 that impacted the community. Backer was instrumental in seeking federal and state disaster assistance, successfully securing $2 million in flood relief from the state legislature. In the aftermath of the flood, he led initiatives aimed at flood prevention and control, reflecting his commitment to the safety and well-being of his constituents.

Legislative service

Backer entered the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2015 after winning the election against one-term Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) incumbent Jay McNamar. His campaign strategy included a focus on local issues and a critique of his opponent's voting record on various matters, including taxes and minimum wage legislation. Since his election, Backer has been reelected every two years, indicating a sustained level of support from his constituents.

In the Minnesota House, Backer has taken on leadership roles, including serving as the minority lead for the Legacy Finance Committee. He is also a member of the Health Finance and Policy Committee and the Human Services Policy Committee. His involvement in these committees allows him to influence legislation related to health care, human services, and the allocation of funds for various state programs.

Backer’s legislative record reflects his positions on a range of issues, particularly those affecting his district and the state as a whole. He has been vocal in his opposition to certain policies, particularly those he perceives as detrimental to the agricultural sector and local governance. His approach often emphasizes the need for legislative oversight of executive actions, particularly concerning regulations that impact farmers and agricultural practices.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Backer has focused on several key policy areas, particularly agriculture and environmental regulations. He has expressed opposition to various environmental protections and agricultural regulations, which he has characterized as reckless and irresponsible. Backer has sponsored legislation aimed at limiting the authority of the executive branch, specifically targeting the administration of former Governor Mark Dayton regarding rules on farm fertilizers and other agricultural practices. He has advocated for requiring legislative approval before new regulations can be enacted, reflecting his belief in a more controlled regulatory environment.

In addition to his focus on agriculture, Backer has taken positions on labor issues, notably opposing measures to raise the minimum wage in Minnesota. He has criticized Governor Dayton's support for the Southwest light rail project, arguing against its implications for the state budget and local communities. His legislative efforts also include participation in a task force aimed at reforming child protection laws, as well as support for funding initiatives related to mental health care for children.

Backer has been active in addressing health-related issues, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He supported legislation aimed at providing aid to individuals and businesses affected by the pandemic, demonstrating his responsiveness to the needs of his constituents during a challenging time.

On social issues, Backer has taken a firm stance against certain practices he views as controversial. He has signed letters urging the University of Minnesota to cease research involving aborted human fetal organs and has called for investigations into organizations like Planned Parenthood regarding their practices related to fetal tissue.

In his personal life, Backer resides in Browns Valley with his wife and child. He has contributed to his community beyond his political roles, including teaching fifth and sixth-grade release time at Zion Lutheran Church, where he is an active member. Additionally, he is involved with the Browns Valley Lions Club, further illustrating his commitment to community service and engagement.

Overall, Jeff Backer’s career reflects a blend of local governance experience and state legislative service, with a focus on agricultural issues, health care, and regulatory policies. His ongoing role in the Minnesota House of Representatives positions him as a significant figure in the political landscape of western Minnesota.