“We need a comprehensive approach to reducing energy prices that examines short and long-term options.  There is no silver bullet.”  (Office of Senator Tim Johnson - Press Release 8/26/08)

A fourth-generation South Dakotan, he was born in Canton to Van and Ruth Johnson. Tim attended school in Canton, Flandreau, and Vermillion, where he graduated from high school in 1965. He then attended the University of South Dakota (USD), graduating with Phi Beta Kappa academic honors. Tim went on to earn both a master's degree in Public Administration and a law degree from the University of South Dakota.

While earning his undergraduate degree at USD, Tim met Barbara Brooks of Sioux Falls, whom he married shortly after graduating. In 1975, Tim began a private law practice in Vermillion and the couple welcomed their second child, Brendan. Three years later in 1978, Tim was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives, and later reelected in 1980. It was during his second term in the state House that their daughter, Kelsey, was born. During that time, Barbara put her master's degree to work and became very active in children's issues and services. Despite their schedules, both parents remained committed and active in their children's lives.

Following four years of service in the state House, Tim ran for the state Senate and was elected in 1982 and again in 1984. After eight years in the state legislature, Tim decided to take his commitment to hard work and South Dakota values with him to Washington. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986 with nearly 60 percent of the vote. Tim served as South Dakota's congressman for five terms before being elected to the Senate on November 5, 1996 and reelected to a second term in 2002.

Tim serves on several important committees, including the powerful Appropriations Committee, the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and the Indian Affairs Committee.

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