Andrew Rockhold
RepublicanQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“it all depends on what the issue is that we are voting on”
KEYWORDS: Trust, Science, Policy.
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?
“That’s a delicate answer. I believe that we should allow mining, however I also believe in the protection of our lands and water. I would want more information.”
KEYWORDS: Need More Info
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 do believe it is the responsibility to provide clean drinking water and would stand with any legislation that would agree with that.”
KEYWORDS: clean drinking water
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 think I am for them but I also believe they need to bring a lot to the communities they are impacting especially with regard to how much electricity they will be using.”
KEYWORDS: be wary
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 want more info. I’m not a fan of the government funding anything that’s not considered essential.”
KEYWORDS: need more info.
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?
“more bible, more accountability, more personal responsibility ”
KEYWORDS: personal responsibility important!