Sen. Larson eager to learn the ropes

Above: Sen. Tyson Larson’s parents, Robyn and Tuffy, visit their son in the Norris Legislative Chamber.

Choosing a college is a big decision; a decision Sen. Tyson Larson made as many young people do – with an eye on independence.

“I wanted to get as far away from Nebraska as possible,” he laughed.

That meant moving from Weeping Water to Washington, D.C. to attend Georgetown University, where he earned degrees in political science and theology. Following graduation, another east coast opportunity arose in the form a consulting position at Sotheby’s Auction House in New York City.

But the pull of home was strong, and Larson returned to Nebraska, settling in O’Neill near his grandparents’ horse ranch.

“I saw too many of my generation continuing to leave the state,” he said. “I realized that Nebraska is what made me who I am, so I came back.”

And the best way to make sure that young people have reasons to stay in the state, Larson said, is to have a hand in making the rules that govern life in Nebraska.

“As a senator, whatever decisions I make, I’ll be living with for a long time,” he said.

Larson became involved in politics early. He worked for Congressman Jeff Fortenberry and, as a 19-year-old, was a coordinator for Congressman Adrian Smith’s successful campaign for the House of Representatives.

Meeting people across rural Nebraska and learning about their concerns spurred his interest in politics, Larson said, adding that the position taught him a great deal.

“It was all about doing your homework and developing relationships,” he said.

That experience was followed by a stint with U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel, but Larson knew early on that he wanted to hold elective office himself.

“I respect the political process,” he said. “But I’m more proactive in my approach.”

Larson said the redistricting process is the issue he is most interested in this session.

“Nebraska is still an agricultural state,” he said. “Agriculture drives the state and I want to make sure that rural areas retain their representation.”

Larson said being a successful high school wrestler provided some unique preparation for life as a state legislator. The six minutes of a match when you battle an opponent is what most people think of when they think of wrestling, he said.

“But you battle yourself for the entire week of preparation before that match,” he said. “It teaches a sense of discipline and hard work.”

Larson continues to be involved in the sport as a referee, but horses and ranch life remain his primary recreational focus. It’s a focus that runs deep in Larson’s family.

His father is president of the Mid-States Rodeo Association and is passionate about horses and rodeo, Larson said.

“The result of that is my middle name: Rope,” he said. “A few of my fellow senators are already using it as a nickname.”