Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is pleased to welcome aboard John Cooney, Minnesota native and political strategist and grassroots organizer, as AFP-Minnesota’s new State Director.

“John has a proven record of grassroots mobilization and free market advocacy” said Tim Phillips, President of Americans for Prosperity. “John is well-equipped to lead the charge fighting to maintain a balanced budget, lower taxes, and increased economic health in Minnesota. AFP is proud to welcome him aboard.”

A political strategist and leader in Minnesota for over 13 years, Cooney has worked as a government liaison for elected officials, as a political strategist for federal, state, and local officials, as well as a grassroots organizer and activist.

Cooney has played a prominent role in Minnesota as a long-time aide to retired Representative Jim Ramstad, conducting campaign schools teaching citizens and political leaders’ grassroots organization, communication strategies, fundraising and more. A life-long resident of Minnesota and graduate of the University of Minnesota, John also served on the Plymouth Planning Commission.

“Minnesota is in desperate need of reforms which was clearly exemplified by our government’s shutdown. Excessive government spending, Governor Dayton’s push to increase taxes among all income levels, and a growing unemployment rate of almost 8 percent are just a few of the major threats to hard working Minnesotans,” said State Director John Cooney.

“I will work hard to ensure Minnesotans are in-the-know about key issues affecting their family, paycheck, and homes. It is time to bring economic growth and individual prosperity back to the North Star State.”