DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (AP) — Former North Dakota State and Buffalo Bills defensive lineman Phil Hansen is entering a new career — in Minnesota politics.

Hansen says he is running as a Republican for a newly created state Senate district in western Minnesota. It covers Clay, Norman and part of Becker County, including Detroit Lakes where Hansen lives.

KFGO-AM reports Hansen says helping small businesses would be his priority if he’s elected. He owns a small snow removal and excavation company.

Hansen grew up on a farm near Oakes, N.D., and says he also would focus on agriculture.

After starring for the Bison, Hansen played 11 years for Buffalo and joined the Bills’ Wall of Fame last September.

Democratic state Rep. Kent Eken of Twin Valley is running for the Senate seat.

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