Biography

John A. Fredrickson, born on March 28, 1987, in Des Moines, Iowa, is a Democratic member of the Nebraska Legislature representing District 20 in Omaha. Elected on November 8, 2022, by a narrow margin of 82 votes, he became the first openly gay man to serve in the Nebraska Legislature. Prior to his political career, Fredrickson worked as a clinical social worker and adjunct professor, focusing on mental health services. He is married to Jeff Formanek, and together they have a son named Leon.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Social Work from New York University, 2009
• Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University, 2010

Political Experience

• Elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2022, representing District 20
• Serves on the Natural Resources Committee and the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee
• Co-founded the "Don't Legislate Hate" political action committee to support politicians opposing anti-LGBTQ legislation
• Established the Fredrickson-Formanek Scholars Fund, an annual endowed scholarship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for first-year students who are champions and supporters of LGBTQA+ causes and rights

Fredrickson's legislative focus includes mental health services, public education, and fostering inclusive policies to attract and retain talent in Nebraska.