He was elected to the Federal Council of Switzerland on March 28, 1934 and handed over office on December 31, 1959. He was affiliated to the Christian Democratic People's Party. During his office time he held the Department of Home Affairs.
He was president of Switzerland four times in 1939, 1942, 1947 and 1953.
Predecessor: Jean-Marie Musy
Successor: Jean Bourgknecht