From humble beginnings in Des Moines, Iowa, Jim has had a heck of a journey. Son to Mark and Lori, Jim was rooted in a strong Danish heritage and Lutheran faith. He spent his formative years in the suburbs of Chicago, where he was shaped by sisters Karri and Ilene, and the strong influence of two “involved” grandmothers .  Living in Palos Park, Illinois Jim learned everything  he needed to know — how to hold an audience and entertain them, how to thrive in team sports, how to weld and work a sheet metal press, to how to formulate and deliver a mean argument (ask his mom), and even how to run for office. After graduating from Carl Sandburg High School, Jim traveled to Denmark, where he studied for a year and backpaked through Europe, learning the guitar somewhere along the way.

Once back in the US it was on to Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. And that is where the trouble began. Knowing of his interest in politics, an influential professor encouraged Jim to attend a public meeting being held by the local Congressman. Jim found himself there alone meeting Congressman Tom Tauke — and a remarkable relationship was born. Jim quickly dispensed with law school at Drake University in Des Moines, as he kept in touch with his mentor Tauke and worked on his campaigns.  After law school Jim settled in Manchester, Iowa, became the County Attorney, got married and welcomed Sarah and Mark into the world. At the age of 28 Jim ran for the Congressional seat Tauke vacated to run for the U.S. Senate. No one believed the kid could win. But with a lot of shoe leather and hard work, Jim was sworn in to Congress in January of 1991, as then its youngest Member. Jim would go on to represent Eastern Iowa in Congress for 16 years.

It was on Captiol Hill that he met his match — and in 2001 married his best friend, Karen Chiccehitto. Together their adventure has been extraordinary — from long nights on the campaign trail to dinners at the Danish Embassy, travels around the world, and quiet mornings on the lake discussing current events, Karen has been the source of fun, love, and unwavering support.