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Minnesota Senate Mourns Sudden Loss Of Senator Bruce Anderson
SAINT PAUL, Minn. — July 22, 2025 — Minnesota lawmakers and communities across the state are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of Senator Bruce Anderson (R–Buffalo Township), who passed away Monday at the age of 75. A longtime public servant, U.S. Navy veteran, and respected legislator, Anderson was widely known for his quiet leadership, deep integrity, and unwavering commitment to his constituents.
Senator Bruce D. Anderson (29, R)
His death marks the second Republican vacancy in the Minnesota Senate this summer, following the legal resignation of Sen. Nicole Mitchell (DFL–Woodbury). A special election will be called by Governor Tim Walz to fill Anderson’s now-vacant District 29 seat.
A Life of Service to State and Country
Bruce Anderson’s service to Minnesota spanned nearly three decades across both chambers of the Legislature. First elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 1994, he served until 2012 before winning election to the Senate. He represented parts of Wright and Hennepin counties, including Buffalo, Monticello, and Maple Lake.
A proud veteran, Anderson served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and later in the Minnesota Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force Reserves. His military background deeply informed his policy work, especially on veterans’ affairs and public service.
A Voice for Rural Minnesota
Throughout his legislative career, Anderson was a steadfast advocate for rural communities. His work focused on agriculture, energy, broadband access, public safety, and veterans' issues. He chaired veterans' committees in both the House and Senate and championed legislation that expanded access to services for service members, farmers, and families across Greater Minnesota.
“Senator Anderson’s expertise gained through military service and background in agriculture made him a great champion for farmers, veterans, and service members at the Capitol,” said Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL–St. Paul) in a statement. “He was a decent, kind colleague, and a dedicated family man, and I feel fortunate to have known and worked with him.”
Remembered Across Party Lines
Tributes poured in from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, highlighting Anderson’s humility, kindness, and commitment to good governance.
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of my friend and colleague,” said Senator Aric Putnam (DFL–St. Cloud). “Bruce was a steady, principled voice in our work as elected officials. I had the honor of working with him on agriculture and veterans issues, where his dedication and humility stood out. His kindness and deep commitment to service will be missed by all of us in the Senate and by the people of Minnesota.”
Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson echoed those sentiments, calling Anderson “a loving family man and dear friend to many at the Capitol and in Buffalo.” He emphasized that Anderson’s decades of public service were rooted in community, faith, and respect.
What Happens Next
With Senator Anderson’s passing, Governor Walz is expected to call a special election to fill the District 29 seat. The timeline for that election has yet to be announced but will likely align with Minnesota’s broader special election calendar.
His death follows a tumultuous summer in the Minnesota Legislature, with multiple vacancies and political shifts underway.
A Lasting Legacy
Senator Bruce Anderson’s life and career exemplified public service grounded in faith, family, and humility. He was known not for seeking the spotlight, but for elevating the voices of others—especially veterans, farmers, and residents of Greater Minnesota. His colleagues remember him as soft-spoken but principled, and as someone who served with respect, purpose, and grace.
As tributes continue to come in, Anderson’s absence will be felt deeply in the halls of the Capitol and across the communities he served so faithfully.
MinneapoliMedia extends heartfelt condolences to the Anderson family and the residents of District 29. We honor his legacy and his enduring contributions to Minnesota.
