Keith Franke (politician) explained

Keith Franke
State House:Minnesota
District:54A
Term Start:January 5, 2021
Term End:January 2, 2023
Predecessor:Anne Claflin
Term Start1:January 3, 2017
Term End1:January 7, 2019
Predecessor1:Dan Schoen
Successor1:Anne Claflin
Birth Date:13 November 1970
Party:Republican Party of Minnesota
Children:2
Alma Mater:Saint Paul College
Hamline University
Occupation:small business owner

Keith Franke (born November 13, 1970) is an American politician and former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. A member of the Republican Party of Minnesota, he represented District 54A in the southeastern Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Early life, education, and career

Franke was born on November 13, 1970.[1] [2] He attended Saint Paul College, graduating with a certificate in restaurant and bar management, and Hamline University, graduating with a certificate in economic development.[3]

Franke was mayor of St. Paul Park, Minnesota from 2012 to 2016. He was a member of the South Washington County Cable Commission, the Red Rock Corridor Commission, and chaired the St. Paul Park Economic Development Authority.

Franke owns Park Cafe and Franke's Corner Bar in St. Paul Park.

Minnesota House of Representatives

Franke was first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2016. He lost his bid for reelection in 2018 to DFL challenger Anne Claflin, however, Franke won a rematch in 2020. He then decided to leave the House in 2022, running unsuccessfully for Washington County Commissioner.

Personal life

Franke resides in St. Paul Park, Minnesota. He has two daughters.

Franke is a recovering substance addict and has been sober since 1998.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Franke, Keith. Minnesota Legislative Reference Library. March 19, 2018. en.
  2. News: Coolican. J. Patrick. Minnesota state Rep. Keith Franke traveled an unusual political path. March 19, 2018. Star Tribune. December 24, 2017.
  3. News: Burlingame. Hannah. Health care talking point for 54A candidates. March 19, 2018. Lillie Suburban Newspapers. October 16, 2016. en.