Introduction

Colin Minehart is running for Minnesota State Representative in District 23A. With a strong commitment to community values, he aims to bring positive change.

Vision for the Future

Colin believes in a future where every voice is heard. His policies focus on jobs, healthcare, and economic growth.

About:

Born and raised in Albert Lea and graduated ALHS 1974.

Higher Education:
University of Minnesota BS 1978 Major: Business & Psychology, Minor: Economics & Sociology.

Family:
Wife Sue, son Michael (U of M ‘08) and daughter Melissa (Metro State ‘12, St Kate’s ’22)

Career:
Business owner 1983 – present
Long Branch Saloon, Manchester, MN 1983 – 1988
Main Street Bar & Grill, Manchester, MN 1989 – 1996
Main Street Grill, Alden, MN 1995 – 2014
MineAgain’s Bar & Grill , Alden & Albert Lea, MN 2017 – 2025

Joined the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association in 1984 as member
Board of Directors 1986 – 2014
President 1999 – 2000
Chairman of the Board 2001 – 2005
Worked as a small business advocate with MLBA and was one of the main architects of developing MLBA’s successful lobbying program.

One of the founding members of the American Beverage Licensees (ABL) a national trade association group organization based in Washington DC and served as vice-president for a term.

MLBA Children’s Fund: Vice President/ Executive Director 2000 – 2014
Assumed leadership of a 501 (c) 3 charity that just two months prior had heavy fines and sanctions place on it by the Minnesota Gambling Control Board. Immediately the ship was righted and became a model charity that was referenced several times over the past years by the MN GCB.

Political:
1980 DFL endorsed district 31A Minnesota. Lost.
1982 DFL endorsed. Lost
1986 DFL endorsed district 27A. Lost.
Ran each time against Bob Haukoos who ended up 16-year legislator.

Local groups involvement over the years:
United Way
YMCA
Mayo Health Systems Patient Advisory Group
Member St. Theodore’s Catholic Church
Other:
University of Minnesota Extension Tourism Advisory Committee 10 years

Since 1983 I have not only been a small business owner but I have also worked tirelessly in conjunction with the MLBA advocating for small businesses at the local, state and federal level.

Top Issues:

Healthcare – Affordability and accessibility in rural areas.
Agriculture – Southern Minnesota relies on a strong farm economy. Unnecessary tariffs on Ag products hurt Minnesota.
Constituent Services – I promise to deliver the best constituent services program of any legislative office in Washington DC.