He studied law and was admitted to the bar and commenced practice in Red Wing, Minnesota. He was a member of the Minnesota Senate (1885 – 1887); elected as a Democrat to the 52nd and 53rd congresses (March 4, 1891 – March 3, 1895). He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1894 to the 54th congress.
He resumed the practice of law. Was a member of the Minnesota State Tax Commission from 1907 until his death in Saint Paul, Minnesota at age 67; interment in Oakwood Cemetery, Red Wing.