David Jennings, a native of Truman, graduated from MSU magna cum laude in 1976 with a degree in political science. He had begun his education at the University of Minnesota-Morris in pursuit of a teaching degree, but left after one year to join the Marine Corps. After five years of military service, he resumed his education at Mankato State. Although his original intent was to become a lawyer (he attended the University of Florida law school for a time after leaving Mankato), he instead chose to enter the state political arena.
Jennings began his political career as a member of former Minnesota Representative Tom Hagedom’s field staff. In 1978 Jennings, a member of the Independent-Republican party in District 29-A, gained a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives. In 1982, he became House minority leader, becoming Speaker of the House when his party gained the majority in 1984. He also served on the Education Committee and the Rules and Legislative Administration Committee during his four terms in office.
Upon lis retirement from politics in 1986, Jennings went to work as an association executive with the Minnesota chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors.
