Joanne E. Benson

Background

Benson, Joanne E. was born on January 4, 1943.

Education

Bachelor of Science, St. Cloud State University.

Career

An Independent Republican, she was elected on the gubernatorial ticket with Governor Arne Carlson, competing for the party endorsement with Allen Quist and Doug McFarland, and later in the election against John Marty. She is a former Minnesota state senator noted for being somewhat more conservative than the moderate Carlson. Benson ran in the 1998 Republican primary for governor, starting off as the initial frontrunner in the Grand Old Party primary.

Placing third in the race for delegates (behind Coleman and Allen Quist), Benson agreed not to challenge Coleman in the primary.

Upon leaving office in 1999, Benson became the first chief education officer of the Minnesota Business Academy. In that capacity, she worked with civic and state leaders to raise money for the school.

Achievements

• Joanne E. Benson has been listed as a noteworthy Lieutenant governor by Marquis Who's Who.

Politics

Republican Party of Minnesota, Republican Party.

Connections

Married Robert Benson. 2 children.

Spouse:

Robert Benson