Andrew Ryan McGill began his career as an educator, eventually becoming principal of a public school in Minnesota. He then served in the military, rising to the rank of First Sergeant before being discharged for disability. Following his military service, McGill transitioned into public administration, holding various positions including county superintendent of public schools and clerk of the district court. He later pursued a legal career, was admitted to the bar, and served as private secretary to the governor of Minnesota. McGill's professional journey also included roles in journalism and state government, culminating in his election as governor of Minnesota, where he focused on economic, labor, and liquor reforms.

Andrew Ryan McGill's political philosophy is marked by a surprising blend of progressive labor reforms and conservative economic measures. He advocated for the abolition of contract prison labor and the creation of a Bureau of Labor Statistics, yet also recommended watering railroad stocks and simplifying tax laws. His tenure as governor saw a calculated approach to regional industrial interests, particularly in railroad regulations. McGill's rhetorical style seems to balance moral imperatives with fiscal conservatism, creating an intriguing tension in his policy positions.