Looman Named Minnesota Commerce Commissioner as Rothman Steps Down

Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman announced that he is leaving his post to run a campaign for state attorney general and Gov. Mark Dayton has appointed Jessica Looman to replace Rothman as head of the state’s Commerce Department.

The commerce department oversees the business of insurance in Minnesota, as well as other industries including financial services and energy.

“I have made the decision to step down from my role as Commissioner in order to ensure that the Department and I have no conflicts of interest as I launch a campaign,” Rothman said in announcing his departure. “As I announce this decision, I would like to thank Governor Mark Dayton for the incredible opportunity to serve in his Administration, and for his unwavering trust and support these past seven years.”

Rothman said as commissioner it has been “an honor and a privilege” to serve “alongside a dedicated team of public servants at the Commerce Department. … I am extremely proud of all we have accomplished together to protect consumers, advance Minnesota’s clean energy economy, enhance financial education and outreach, and protect the public interest.”

Looman’s appointment was effective Nov. 17. She brings extensive experience in industry regulation, consumer protection and public-sector management to the department, the governor’s announcement said. Looman has served as deputy commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) since 2014. She began her service at DLI in January 2011 as assistant commissioner, overseeing the department’s Construction Codes, Licensing and Labor Standards, and Apprenticeship Divisions, as well as the Research and Statistics Unit.

Prior to her service at DLI, Looman served as general counsel for the Laborers District Council of Minnesota and North Dakota — an 11,000-member labor organization representing workers in the construction industry.

Looman is a graduate of George Washington University (B.A. in political science) and the University of Minnesota Law School (J.D.).