His experience in politics started with an opportunity to organize outdoor enthusiasts as a Field Organizer in Southern Minnesota for the Minnesota Environmental Partnership. When the economy went into recession and grant funding for the program dried up, he did what he could to pay the mortgage and support his wife in graduate school at the University of Minnesota.

In 2011 members of the Saint Peter community asked him to consider running for City Council in Saint Peter upon the retirement of another member. Jeff was successful because he did the investigation into what the needs of the community were and tried to find solutions to support a growing economy, new housing options for families and seniors, and ways to improve the quality of life for the community. In 2015 Jeff was reelected to a second term as Councilmember.

He became a Board Member for the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, advocating for greater allocations of property tax relief, resources for new home and apartment construction, broadband internet service for rural areas, and more dollars for transportation projects across Minnesota. Jeff was able to work with members from both sides of the aisle to procure these resources at the Minnesota Legislature.

And back in Saint Peter things continue to prosper - such as a new High School and Community Spirit Park, a joint venture between the City of Saint Peter and School District #508. Several road improvements have been made, and housing & economic developments continue to spring up across the community. The Solace project is nearly completed after a 5-year process and will accommodate families and save taxpayers money by providing recovery resources in house for mothers and their children. Recently, Jeff voted with colleagues to expand the River's Edge Hospital with a $44 million investment.