Grassroots empowerment with coordinated strategy
ensuring local voices drive decisions while leveraging collective efforts
Grassroots empowerment with coordinated strategy
ensuring local voices drive decisions while leveraging collective efforts
The strength of this organization has never been about one person. It’s about all of us—our combined talents, lived experiences, and unwavering commitment to the values we hold dear. I’m running for Chair of Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District because I believe in the power of local control, collective action, and the extraordinary potential we unlock when we stand shoulder to shoulder in pursuit of a common cause.
My strength starts with my faith in Jesus Christ and the steady support of my incredible wife, Becky, and our two amazing children, Tyler and Alita. My Christian faith has guided every chapter of my life—from helping plant a church in Woodbury to serving as interim children’s minister during its early, foundational years. Faith, family, and a heart for servant leadership continue to shape every decision I make.
Today, we call Taylors Falls home. Over the past four years, we’ve been planting roots in this beautiful community—connecting, contributing, and embracing everything it means to live and serve locally.
I grew up a farm kid in rural Nebraska, where hard work, integrity, and community weren’t just words—they were a way of life. I was the first man in my family to graduate from college, earning a degree in Biological Systems Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. That education opened the door to a career built on curiosity, innovation, and a drive to make a difference.
For the past 27 years, I’ve served in leadership roles at 3M and now Solventum—leading high-performing teams, solving complex challenges, and delivering meaningful results. As a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, I’ve always approached problems with a data-driven mindset and a passion for creating smarter, more efficient systems that actually work.
Leadership has been a calling since my early days in the FFA Organization, where I served as a State Officer and National Membership Chairman. Those experiences ignited a deep desire to empower others, grow strong communities, and cultivate leaders who inspire lasting impact. Whether it’s working with youth nonprofits, leading major fundraising efforts, or uniting people around shared goals—my focus has always been helping others reach higher.
That same approach guides my grassroots political work today. As a member of the Chisago County BPOU Executive Committee, I’ve helped plan impactful events, adopted and introduced new technologies to enhance operations, encouraged expanded use of Robert’s Rules of Order, supported local candidates, expanded donor outreach, and helped to energize our members and volunteers. I believe in upholding our constitution, educating members, and honoring the real influence we have when we come together as a grassroots movement.
I see the 8th Congressional District as a catalyst—a source of strength and support for our BPOUs and members. My goal is to equip every corner of this district with the tools, resources, and encouragement needed to thrive—to become self-sustaining, and to win where it matters most: at the local level.
I bring decades of experience, a heart for service, and an unshakable belief in what the people of this district can achieve. My vision is grounded in unity, empowerment, and long-term success. Together, we can build something far greater than any one of us could do alone.
Let’s get to work—and Elevate Eight, together.
Prepared and paid for by Tony Kaufman for CD8 Chair, 33281 Vista Road, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
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