Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“Scientists combine their knowledge and experience in methodical, testable ways that seek to understand the world we live in. As a geneticist, all of my decisions are data-driven and consider all perspectives to craft comprehensive policy decisions. I have a strong record of seeking information and opinions of subject matter experts, researchers, and scientists, and taking their feedback seriously. Finally, I have publicly stood up for science and confronted scientific falsehoods in committee, with colleagues, and on the Minnesota House and Senate floors.”
KEYWORDS: Geneticist, Feedback, Champion
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?
“The Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) is a beloved and pristine, natural part of Minnesota. Governor Walz recently issued an Executive Order to terminate the leases of the interested mining companies. However, we know that Executive Orders do not last forever, and we must take legislative action to protect this state treasure. I have a strong history of supporting bold action to protect the BWCA, including holding companies responsible for clean-up and permanent protections of the Boundary Waters. “Prove-It First” legislation requires peer-reviewed research, industrial and commercial precedent, input from the community, and safe practices be demonstrated before deploying mining for experimentation in our precious ecosystems. It is imperative that activities that would drastically affect the health of the environment be robustly shown to not harm the environment. I look forward to continuing to work towards permanent protection status of the BWCA, as well as other policies that protect the health of our people and our environment.”
KEYWORDS: Permanent protection, Proof
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 proud to support banning non-essential uses on PFAS in my first term in the Minnesota House. As a geneticist, I understand the real cancer-causing dangers of fluorinated compounds in our drinking water. I continue to advocate for my community by authoring bills for bonding money and sales tax exemptions on construction materials. Bringing real dollars to my community helps alleviate the taxpayer burden as my community builds a new water treatment facility, a new water tower to hold treated water, and miles of new pipe to address the widespread PFAS contamination. As we continue to learn of the extent of PFAS pollution and the environmental and public health impacts of this chemical, I look forward to keeping Minnesota on the leading edge in protecting our citizens.”
KEYWORDS: Amara’s Law, Advocate
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?
“The discovery potential of utilizing AI can be very promising if proper guardrails are implemented with the values we hold as a society. First, I was proud to support a nation-leading laws that ban AI nudification technology and AI deepfakes with the intent to influence an election. I understand the desire and hopes for this innovative technology, as well as the interest in creating good paying jobs for Minnesotans. I believe there needs to be a balance for keeping jobs in Minnesota, protecting our environment, and ensuring that the profits made by large corporations primarily go back to the communities hosting them (and not to line billionaire pockets). I will continue to support policies that keep community safety and well-being at the forefront as we being to regulate this technology.”
KEYWORDS: Guardrails, Community safety
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?
“I will continue to be a vocal champion of science funding at the state and federal level. Whether for research or education, it is imperative we support our scientists, researchers, and teachers in all levels of schooling. Policies can include programs to increase the number of science teachers and teachers of color for our classrooms, direct financial support to schools for field trips for young and curious students, grants to conduct empirical research on cancers and other diseases, and funded studies to better understand mental health and addiction.”
KEYWORDS: Vocal supporter, Education
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 will continue to support policies that address the visible and root causes of addiction and mental health, utilizing a lens for equity. I have supported policies that provide naloxone in schools and other public places so lives can be saved from an overdose. We need to fund and provide resources for people to feel supported across all aspects of their lives, including parenting, education, jobs, and healthcare. We must also ensure that qualified practitioners are compensated and ready to care for people needing mental health services before and during a crisis. Finally, policies should be led by community to meet their unique needs.”
KEYWORDS: Community, Mental health