Bill Gates Jr
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“Science should be a cornerstone of good government, but it should never be the only voice at the table. As Governor, I will rely on scientists, engineers, physicians, economists, agricultural experts, and researchers when evaluating policies involving public health, infrastructure, natural resources, energy, education, and emerging technologies. I believe decisions should be guided by credible evidence, peer-reviewed research, and transparent data while also considering economic impacts, constitutional rights, and the everyday experiences of Minnesotans. Science helps us understand what is possible and what the likely consequences of our choices will be. It is the responsibility of elected leaders to balance that knowledge with the values and priorities of the people they serve.”
KEYWORDS: Evidence-Based, Transparency, Collaboration
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?
“Minnesota’s environment and natural resources are among our greatest assets, and they deserve careful stewardship. Mining has long been an important part of our economy, providing good-paying jobs and supporting communities across the state. I support responsible mining projects that meet rigorous, science-based environmental standards. Any project affecting the Boundary Waters watershed should undergo independent environmental review, continuous water-quality monitoring, strong financial assurances for cleanup, and meaningful public engagement. If credible scientific evidence demonstrates an unacceptable risk to the watershed or surrounding ecosystems, the project should not move forward. We should invest in cleaner mining technologies and modern environmental protections so Minnesota can remain both an environmental leader and a leader in responsible resource development.”
KEYWORDS: Stewardship, Responsible Mining, Science
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?
“Every Minnesotan deserves access to safe drinking water. PFAS contamination is a serious public health issue that requires prevention, accountability, and long-term investment. I support expanding statewide water testing, identifying contamination early, assisting communities with treatment infrastructure, and accelerating cleanup of affected sites. Companies responsible for contamination should be held financially accountable whenever permitted under the law. Minnesota should continue supporting research into effective PFAS treatment technologies while strengthening regulations that prevent future contamination. By combining sound science, responsible regulation, and targeted investment, we can protect public health without placing unnecessary burdens on local communities or taxpayers.”
KEYWORDS: Clean Water, Prevention, Accountability
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?
“Artificial intelligence and data centers represent significant opportunities for Minnesota’s economy, but growth must be managed responsibly. I support requiring large data center projects to evaluate impacts on electricity demand, water resources, transportation infrastructure, cybersecurity, and local communities before approval. Developers should prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, grid reliability, and partnerships with local utilities. Minnesota should encourage innovation while ensuring taxpayers are not left paying for infrastructure upgrades that primarily benefit private companies. AI also requires thoughtful governance that protects privacy, promotes transparency where appropriate, and prepares our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. We should welcome technological investment while protecting the communities that host it.”
KEYWORDS: Innovation, Sustainability, Infrastructure
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?
“Scientific research is one of Minnesota’s greatest competitive advantages. Our universities, healthcare systems, and private research institutions create discoveries that improve lives while supporting thousands of high-quality jobs. I support continued investment in scientific research at both the state and federal levels, particularly in medicine, agriculture, manufacturing, clean energy, and artificial intelligence. Research funding should encourage collaboration between universities, government, and private industry to move discoveries from the laboratory into Minnesota businesses and communities. Taxpayer investments should be transparent, accountable, and focused on delivering measurable public benefits while preserving scientific independence. Investing in research today strengthens Minnesota’s economy, workforce, and quality of life for generations to come.”
KEYWORDS: Research, Innovation, Economic Growth
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?
“Minnesota’s recent decline in overdose deaths is encouraging, but every life lost is one too many. I support expanding access to mental health care, substance use treatment, medication-assisted treatment, recovery housing, peer support, and overdose prevention resources such as naloxone. We must continue disrupting fentanyl trafficking while recognizing that addiction is both a public health and public safety challenge. I also support community-based partnerships that improve outreach and treatment in populations experiencing disproportionately high overdose rates, including Indigenous and Black Minnesotans. Success will require better coordination between healthcare providers, social services, law enforcement, and local communities. Our goal should be to save lives, strengthen families, and help people recover so they can fully participate in Minnesota’s economy and communities.”
KEYWORDS: Prevention, Recovery, Public Health