Arlan Stangeland, American farmer and politician (d. 2013)

Arlan Inghart Stangeland (February 8, 1930 – July 2, 2013) was a distinguished American Republican politician who proudly represented Minnesota in both state and federal capacities for decades. A dedicated public servant, Stangeland made a significant impact during his tenure in the United States House of Representatives, advocating for the interests of his constituents and the broader agricultural community.

Born in Moorhead, Minnesota, Stangeland's roots were deeply embedded in the state's vibrant agricultural landscape. Prior to his congressional service, he actively engaged in local and state politics, honing his legislative skills. He served as a Clay County Commissioner from 1967 to 1971 and later as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1971 to 1975. This extensive background equipped him with a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rural America, particularly Minnesota's vital farming sector.

Stangeland commenced his impactful career in the U.S. House of Representatives on February 22, 1977, when he won a special election. This election was necessitated by the resignation of incumbent Representative Bob Bergland, who had been appointed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture by President Jimmy Carter. Representing Minnesota's vast 7th congressional district, a predominantly rural and agricultural area spanning the western and northwestern parts of the state, Stangeland became a strong voice for his constituents. During his almost 14-year congressional career, which concluded on January 3, 1991, he was a staunch advocate for conservative principles and notably served on the House Agriculture Committee, where he championed policies beneficial to farmers and rural communities.

His tenure in Congress concluded following the 1990 House election, where he sought reelection but was ultimately defeated by Democrat Collin Peterson. This marked the end of his active political career, after which he honorably retired from public service, returning to his private life on his farm near Moorhead. Arlan Stangeland's legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to his home state and his dedicated representation of its agricultural heartland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Arlan Stangeland

Who was Arlan Inghart Stangeland?

Arlan Inghart Stangeland was an American Republican politician from Minnesota who served as a U.S. Representative for nearly 14 years, known for his advocacy for agricultural interests.

Which U.S. Congressional District did Arlan Stangeland represent?

He proudly represented Minnesota's 7th congressional district, a largely rural and agricultural region in the western and northwestern parts of the state.

When did Arlan Stangeland serve in the U.S. House of Representatives?

His extensive congressional service spanned from February 22, 1977, to January 3, 1991.

How did Stangeland initially get elected to Congress?

He first won a special election on February 22, 1977, to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Bob Bergland, who was appointed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

Why did Arlan Stangeland leave Congress?

His congressional tenure concluded after he lost his campaign for reelection in the 1990 House election to Democrat Collin Peterson, after which he retired from politics.