Former DFL House Speaker up for Hennepin County judgeship

Phil Carruthers

Former DFL Speaker of the House Phil Carruthers is on the list of finalists for two open spots on the Hennepin County District Court bench.

Carruthers, who’s name was forwarded on to Gov. Mark Dayton‘s office for the job this week, served in the Minnesota House from 1987 until 2000, leading the chamber as House Speaker from 1997 to 1998.  Before that, he served as Majority Leader and the chair of various committees and sub committees, including the Rules and Judiciary Committees.

Carruthers, who was born in England,  currently works in the Ramsey County Attorney’s office as director of the civil division.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy Brasel and senior Assistant Hennepin County Attorney Elizabeth Cutter were also recommended for the positions by the Commission on Judicial Selection.