Exclusive: Moorhead Patrol Sergeant Joe Brannan on run for Minnesota State Senate

(Moorhead, MN) -- A focus on public safety is coming to the Minnesota State Senate's newly minted District Four State Senate race.

Current Moorhead Police Department Patrol Sergeant Joe Brannan says he would bring a unique, first-hand perspective of law enforcement to the office, which represents Clay and Becker Counties.

"Working some of the public safety and community service projects of the past 13 years has put me in a spot to know how to give back and connect more with the community," said Brannan on WDAY Midday. "That makes me a viable candidate for this job."

Brannan says there were a few eyebrows raised at first when he told his wife and family, but he has their full support in seeking the GOP endorsement for the seat.

"Bring that perspective that when you write some of these things in the legislature there are unintended consequences people can feel," said Brannan. "Also to advocate for the position, which has been under fire for the past few years. I think it's a good opportunity to help our work force, which has been beat up over the past few years."

Brannan is looking to replace current state senator Kent Eken, who earlier this week announced he would not be seeking re-election.