Ben Bakeberg Clardy1
Born on July 15, 1978, Ben Bakeberg Clardy is an American politician who has been serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives since 2023. He is a member of the Republican Party of Minnesota and represents District 54B, which is located south of the Twin Cities metropolitan area and includes the city of Prior Lake and parts of Scott County.
Early Life and Education
Bakeberg Clardy was born in Cokato, Minnesota. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from the University of Northwestern - St. Paul, and his Master’s in science in education leadership from Minnesota State University Mankato.
Career
Before his political career, Bakeberg Clardy worked in various roles in public and private education. He has experience as a custodian, paraprofessional, teacher, coach, assistant principal, and building principal. He was the principal of Jordan Middle School in Jordan, Minnesota.
Political Career
Bakeberg Clardy was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2022. He first ran after redistricting and after five-term Republican incumbent Tony Albright announced he would not seek reelection and resigned to take a lobbying job. Bakeberg Clardy serves on the Education Finance and Education Policy Committees.
Political Positions
Bakeberg Clardy has been vocal about his political positions. He opposed legislation that would require Minnesota high schools to offer an ethnic studies course, saying “local school districts across the state are already doing this, and they don’t need us to mandate”. He also expressed concerns about a bill guaranteeing one daily breakfast and lunch to all students, arguing that it would not eliminate hunger or school lunch debt because some children may choose to get extra meals.
Personal Life
Bakeberg Clardy lives in Jordan, Minnesota, with his wife, Lindy, and has three children. He attends River Valley Church in Shakopee. He is a former amateur baseball player and currently plays for the Jordan Millers (35+).
