Current Candidates

Candidate for Winona County Commissioner, District 3

Hello Winona County Residents! My name is Josh Elsing. As a 30+ year resident, I am running for Winona County Commissioner, district 3. This seat was held by Steve Jacob for 10+ years and I’m honored to be the candidate Steve endorsed after moving to the House of Representatives.

Many of you know my wife Leah and our children, Maddy, Emma and AJ. Leah is a Director of Nursing here in St. Charles where we live, and we were also longtime residents of the Altura and Lewiston areas. Our kids are pursuing their careers/college after attending local Public and Christian schools. I have been in agriculture for most of my life supporting all types of ag. I own an agriculture business based in St. Charles with local and out of state employees. We also have a property business. As a former 4-H kid, we love the county fair, and our business sponsors it as well as other local organizations.

With 10+ years in local government, I’ve found that experience matters when interfacing with other elected officials. Being open to people’s concerns is key and pulling from experiences in managing and owning businesses is crucial for a fiscally responsible, accountable, and transparent government. Protecting our road funds, keeping our property and local tax levy in check, advocating small government, supporting our local agriculture, small businesses, townships, and cities in our rural district are a few priorities all while being responsible with our environment. Having a strong background in Agriculture and Rural community government and development is something I hope brings continuity to the county board.

A few areas of involvement: Twice elected Mayor for the City of Altura and prior Planning and Zoning commission. Current twice elected and Treasurer for the Winona County SWCD Board (Soil and Water Conservation District). Current President of Whitewater Joint Powers Board (County Commissioners and SWCD supervisors from Winona, Wabasha and Olmsted Counties). WINLAC Winona County Ag AdvisoryBoard. Former MASWCD SE MN 11 County Executive board member. Former General Manager for an ag company in Winona County.Former Lewiston EMT. (Let’s support our Veterans, Firefighters, EMT’s, First Responders and Local Law enforcement. They need it!)

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a lot of great people here in Winona County over the years whether through government relations, business or just getting out and about. I look forward to meeting even more as your commissioner! I’m an open door so please feel free to get ahold of me for any reasons or to just chat! J.elsing68@gmail.com or 1-507-932-8500.

Reminder: Primary election is May 9th. Special Election is August 8th, vote at your regular voting locations.

Running for MN House of Representatives 26A.

“As a father of 8 children I know how hard it is to deliver shelter and a meal to the family. As a High School Math and ESL teacher I know the challenges of our communities’ families. Having driven OTR Truck Full Time, and returning to the road for summer assignments, I know the sacrifices so many must make to bring home a living wage. Having been with my wife for every step of her immigration to the USA, I know the challenges and rewards for those arriving legally. When elected I will be your voice.”

DONATE