Carl Jensen

Carl Arthur Jensen (December 11, 1920 – May 4, 1988) was a Minnesota politician, attorney, and veteran. Jensen served as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and the Minnesota Senate representing part of southwestern Minnesota during the 1950s until the 1980s. Jensen was a member of the Republican Party who later switched to become a Democrat at the end of his life. Jensen, after leaving elected office, served on the Minnesota Tax Court from 1981 until 1986, appointed by then-Governor and fellow Republican Al Quie. Early life and education Carl Arthur Jensen was born in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. He served in the United States Air Force during World War II. After returning from the war, he attended law school at the University of Minnesota and graduated with honors in 1949. Once admitted to the bar, he engaged in private practice, and also served as attorney for the Sleepy Eye School District for nine years, and for the City of Sleepy Eye for 14 years. Political career In 1966, after several years away from public service, Jensen ran successfully for the District 17 state senate seat being vacated by John M. Zwach, Sr., who was running for the U.S. Congress. District 17 later became District 28 after redistricting in 1970, and included all or portions of Brown, Cottonwood, Murray, Nicollet and Redwood counties. He was re-elected in 1970, 1972 and 1976.