The Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA) honored Rep. Dave Baker (R-Willmar) and Sen. Susan Pha (D-Brooklyn Center) as its 2026 Legislators of the Year during the association’s annual Legislative Dinner at The University Club in St. Paul.
The lawmakers were recognized for their roles in securing continued funding for the MGA Foundation’s Carts to Careers initiative, a workforce training and professional development program serving employees of MGA member companies.
Carts to careers funding secured
Pha served as chief author of the Senate legislation supporting the program. She championed the proposal in the Senate Jobs and Economic Development Committee and worked to ensure it was included in the final jobs omnibus bill, securing two additional years of funding.
Baker, co-chair of the House Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy Committee, led the effort on the House side. A former grocer, he has been a consistent advocate for Minnesota’s food industry throughout his legislative career.
Cross-party collaboration
MGA President Patrick Garofalo credited both lawmakers for working across party lines to advance the initiative.
“[They] are great examples of the kind of leadership that we should all value in St. Paul,” Garofalo said. “They are thoughtful, collaborative and willing to work across party lines to do good work for the people of Minnesota.
The MGA and Minnesota’s food industry are grateful to have the support of such quality people and legislators. They are both extremely deserving of this recognition.”
About the MGA
The Minnesota Grocers Association is the state’s only trade association representing the food industry from farm to fork.
The organization has served the industry for more than 125 years and counts some 250 retail, manufacturer and wholesale members supporting nearly 1,300 locations statewide. Member companies employ more than 150,000 Minnesotans.