Born in 1951, Gil Gutknecht represents the peak of the Baby Boom generation. Graduating in 1973 with a degree in Business from the University of Northern Iowa, he became the first person from either side of his family to graduate from college. At UNI, he met and married Mary Catherine Keefe. They have three grown children and have lived in Rochester for more than 30 years, where they are members of Pax Christi Catholic Church.
After serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives for twelve years, Gutknecht was first elected to Congress in 1994. He serves as chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Operations Oversight, Nutrition and Forestry; vice chairman of the Science Committee; and as a member of the Government Reform Committee.
He has earned a reputation as a deficit hawk for his service while on the House Budget Committee. He also has earned many awards as a "Friend of the Farmer" for his work on the House Agriculture Committee.
Click here or on image for a high-res photo> Known as the dean of the bi-partisan coalition for affordable pharmaceuticals, Gutknecht has spearheaded efforts to dramatically lower the cost of prescription drugs for American consumers. Gutknecht stood up for American consumers by passing legislation in the House that opens markets so that all Americans would have access to affordable pharmaceuticals.
In his spare time, Gutknecht is an avid fisherman and family man. He enjoys his annual family fishing trip to northern Minnesota. Whether in Minnesota or Washington, he can often be found catching a Twins game.
Gutknecht believes that, "Words have meaning, ideas matter, and actions have consequences." He also believes that, "If you want to change the world, you must first change your neighborhood. If you can't change your neighborhood, at least be a good example."
Setting that example, Congressman Gutknecht has used his skills as an auctioneer to raise well over $2.2 million for charity since being elected to Congress.
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