ST. PAUL — State Representative Paul Torkelson (R-Hanska) was elected Wednesday as an assistant minority leader for the Minnesota House Republicans for the 2021-2022 biennium.

As an Assistant Leader, Rep. Torkelson will help develop legislative policy for House Republicans as well as assist in crafting political vision.

“Its an honor to receive the support of my colleagues to work for them in this leadership position,” Torkelson said. “Holding this post will also allow me to promote the priorities and values of southwestern Minnesota.”

Torkelson is a farmer who lives in Hanska. He and his wife Cindy are parents to two adult daughters. Torkelson is completing his sixth term in the Minnesota House and was recently elected to his seventh term on Nov. 2.