Minnesota’s “People’s Senator” Jeremy Miller Will Not Seek Reelection in 2026

Minnesota State Senator Jeremy Miller announced that he will not seek reelection in 2026, bringing an end to a notable legislative career that began when he was just 26 years old. In a heartfelt statement, Miller said the decision came after much reflection and discussion with his wife, Janel, and their three boys. “Other than marrying my amazing wife and the birth of our three wonderful boys, serving in the Minnesota Senate has been one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my life,” Miller said.

First elected in 2010, Miller quickly established himself as a rising figure in St. Paul. At the time, he was the second youngest Minnesotan ever elected to the Senate. Over the years, voters returned him to office four more times, and by the end of his current term he will have served 16 years in the chamber. In 2019, at just 35, Miller made history again, becoming the youngest senator to serve as President of the Minnesota Senate. Alongside that role, he held multiple leadership positions including Committee Chair, Deputy Majority Leader, and Senate Majority Leader. His colleagues often credited his determination, work ethic, and ability to bring people together as the driving forces behind his leadership.

Miller’s time in office has been marked by a wide range of legislative accomplishments. He worked to expand housing and workforce opportunities for people with disabilities, led the creation of the Rare Diseases Advisory Council, and pushed for improvements in early childhood education. He was a champion for expanding mental health services and funding housing projects, as well as advancing newborn screenings and enhancing protections for first responders. He strongly backed law enforcement, streamlined the transfer process for college credits, and was instrumental in passing Sunday liquor sales. His focus on tax relief targeted seniors, veterans, small businesses, farmers, and hardworking Minnesotans. Locally, he played a role in advancing projects such as Winona State University’s Education Village, rebuilding the flood-damaged Rushford-Peterson Middle/High School, securing the Southeast Minnesota Veterans Cemetery, and establishing the Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston. One of his more unusual moments of service was far outside the chamber—Miller is believed to be the only senator in the state, and possibly in the nation, to have saved a constituent from drowning in Lake Winona.

Over the years, Miller received numerous awards in recognition of his legislative work, including Legislator of the Year, the Outstanding Support for People with Disabilities award, and the Betty Bednarczyk Courage Award. He also earned honors such as Arts All-Star, Community Brick Builder, and the prestigious Golden Axe Award from the Minnesota Fire Fighters Association. The Council of State Governments named him to their “20 under 40” list, highlighting his national recognition as a leader to watch. Around the Capitol, he gained the nickname “The People’s Senator,” complete with a championship belt he proudly displays in his office, for his focus on putting citizens above politics.

Reflecting on his philosophy, Miller said he has always believed in collaboration over partisanship. “There tends to be too much I, I, I, and me, me, me, in politics and not enough we and us,” he explained. “My philosophy is simple – listen and work together to get things done. It should not be about what is best for a political party, but rather what is best for our community, state, and country.”

Although stepping away from the legislature, Miller said he is not closing the door on future political opportunities. For now, he wants to be more present at home. “I have spent a lot of time away from home during my time in the Senate, and I’m really looking forward to being home more often,” he said. Miller plans to continue growing his business ventures, volunteering in the community, and most importantly, spending more time with Janel and their boys.

As he looks toward his final year in office, Miller expressed gratitude for those who have supported him. “I am incredibly grateful for the trust and support I’ve received from the constituents I have the opportunity to serve,” he said. “I’ve created countless memories and built many wonderful friendships that will extend far beyond my time in the Senate.”