Throughout his career in public service Tad Jude has championed lower taxes, smaller government, clean air and water, rails to trails, and stronger law enforcement for our communities.
Having entered public service in 1972, Jude has deep roots in the community. Jude first served in the Minnesota House of Representatives and the Minnesota Senate. He later served on the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners and most recently has been a Minnesota District Court Judge role for 11 years.
Jude is a graduate of the University of St. Thomas and earned his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law in 1977. He chaired the full House Judiciary Committee.
Tad developed a reputation for tireless door-knocking on tens of thousands of homes in his district. In addition to his public service, Jude has been instrumental in founding three active small businesses.
Born and raised in Minnesota, Jude hails from Maple Lake; he is the oldest of the 11 children born to Ruth (Huisentruit) Jude and Victor N. Jude. As a child, Jude often accompanied his father in delivering supplies to countless small businesses throughout Central Minnesota. He is the nephew of Dr. James Jude, a key figure in the development of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Jude was a member of the 523rd Army Security Agency member in the Army Reserve.
Making history as the youngest individual ever elected to the Minnesota Legislature, Jude secured his position at the age of 20 during the 1972 election.
In 2010, Jude emerged victorious from a crowd of 24 well-qualified contenders to a position as District Court Judge for Minnesota's 10th Judicial District. This district includes Anoka and seven other counties.
Jude was reelected in 2016, running uncontested.
Jude has been recognized for his outstanding achievements by being named the MN Chamber of Commerce Citizen Legislator of the Year, a testament to his dedication to serving his constituents and the broader business community. Jude remains deeply engaged in various community organizations and initiatives.
He currently serves as a commander at the American Legion Post 303. He actively participated on the Northwest YMCA Board, Catholic Charities of St. Paul/Minneapolis Board, Senior Community Services Board, and Jodi’s Network of Hope Board. He also sits on the Action for Children/Zambia Board, which is committed to global humanitarian efforts.
Jude is a MN Sheriff’s Association Public Safety member. West Hennepin Human Services recognized Jude as a Citizen of Distinction. MADD has recognized his work in the areas of illegal alcohol and drug addiction.
Tad is married to Jacelyn and is the proud father of three children, contributing to a blended family of nine. Jude remains grounded in his commitment to serving others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.
Jude spearheaded numerous bipartisan legislative initiatives and accomplishments, including:
- A constitutional amendment that led to the establishment of Minnesota's Court of Appeals and the current structure of the Minnesota Supreme Court.
- Integrating municipal and county courts into a unified district court trial bench.
- Transformation of abandoned rail corridors into recreational trails, starting with the Luce Line Trail.
- Reducing, Reusing, waste-to-energy, recycling, and composting programs as sustainable landfill alternatives.
- Implementation of a statewide 911 emergency reporting and response system.
- Introduction of graphic license plates for Minnesota vehicles.
- Secure policing and safe shelter measures for Metro Transit.
- Implementation of clean water programs for Minnesota lakes and streams.
WORKING TOGETHER WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Together, we can amplify our voices, pool our resources, and achieve greater impact.
Let's unite regardless of party for effective change in having Congress work for us.
We can achieve more working together than we ever could alone.
