He was elected as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives in 1858, 1863, and 1866, serving as speaker in the session of 1866. He was elected as a member of the Minnesota State Senate 1867–1869.
In 1858, 1863, and 1866, he was selected for a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives, where he held the position of speaker during that year's session. From 1867 to 1869, he represented the state senate.