The Edmunds family was involved with politics, associating with the Free Soilers before affiliating with the Republican Party.

On August 30, 1862, Edmunds was elected as eighth corporal of Company A of the Dakota Militia, following the Santee uprising.

Edmunds also promoted advanced farming techniques and successfully introduced sheep to Dakota Territory in 1865.

After leaving office, Edmunds remained involved in both business and politics in Dakota Territory.

During the 1880s, he joined the statehood movement, attending the first constitutional convention in Sioux Falls September 1883.