Aaron Klemz
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“I place a high priority on utilizing peer reviewed scientific research in all public policy decisions. In particular, on matters of public health and environmental protection, too often we ignore science in favor of ideology. I believe in following the evidence.”
KEYWORDS: Evidence, Research, Health
Q2 Recently H.J. Res 140 passed, overturning a 20-year mining ban in the National Forest System land surrounding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. What is your position on mining projects in this region and what policies, if any, would you support to protect the surrounding watershed?
“Sulfide mining has an unbroken track record of polluting downstream waters and groundwater, and I oppose copper-nickel sulfide mining proposals for that reason. The BWCA watershed mineral withdrawal was based on reams of scientific research and tremendous public participation, but was overturned by a bare majority based on politics. I support the Permanent Protection for the BWCA bill and Prove it First as two policies, informed by science, that would protect Minnesota’s waters.”
KEYWORDS: pollution, protection, public
Q3 Contamination from PFAS and other “forever chemicals” in 21 community water systems in Minnesota exceed national regulations, putting residents at risk of negative health impacts. What policies, if any, do you propose to protect Minnesota residents from the potential impacts of PFAS?
“I was part of the lobbying team that helped pass “Amara’s Law,” which made Minnesota a global leader in phasing out PFAS “forever chemicals.” My home city of Fridley is currently constructing a $6 million water treatment facility to treat PFAS pollution. We must protect Amara’s Law, and not delay implementation of the 2032 ban on all non-essential uses. We must also ensure that polluters pay the cost of cleaning up and treating polluted water. The $850 million 3M PFAS settlement is nearing the end, but the costs continue to escalate.”
KEYWORDS: essential, water, 3M
Q4 There have been multiple hyperscale data centers proposed throughout the state, including one currently under construction. What policies and regulations, if any, do you support to assess and act on the potential impacts of these data centers?
“I support ending all tax subsidies and creating a robust permitting system for hyperscale data centers that protect electric ratepayers, protects our groundwater, and protects local residents from pollution. I also support requiring data centers to bring their own new clean energy, paying for renewable energy such as solar + battery storage equal to their power draw.”
KEYWORDS: subsidy, permit, water
Q5 In 2025 alone, the National Institute on Health (NIH) awarded over $700 million for research grants and contracts to Minnesota universities, which directly supported over 7,000 jobs and $1.79 billion of economic activity in Minnesota. What policies, if any, do you plan to implement or support regarding funding for continued science research either at the state or federal level?
“Minnesota can’t prevent federal cuts to scientific research, but we can defend academic freedom in our universities and ensure that critical research continues with state support. We must continue training the next generation of researchers by funding our public universities, including graduate education. I’m also open to targeted state investments to continue critical research needs. Minnesota’s Legacy Fund and the Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund also support scientific research, and I will be a strong voice in support of both.”
KEYWORDS: academic freedom, legacy
Q6 Fatal drug overdoses in Minnesota have significantly declined in recent years, representing a 28% drop from a record peak of 1,392 overdose deaths in 2022. However, compared to White Minnesotans, Indigenous Minnesotans are 7 to 15 times more likely to experience a fatal drug overdose, while Black Minnesotans are 2 to 3 times more likely to die from a drug-related overdose. What policies, if any, do you support to continue the downward trend of overdose deaths for Minnesotans?
“I believe in harm reduction approaches such as needle exchanges, narcan availability, and methadone treatment. Some argue these approaches enable addiction, but I follow the research that shows that they keep people alive. A person once told me “you can’t go clean if you’re dead.” I think the logic of that statement is undeniable, and I support policies that keep people alive and give them access to services. I also support supportive housing models like Avivo Village that see access to addiction care and mental health care as important parts of responding to homelessness.”
KEYWORDS: harm reduction, homelessness