Caitlyn Sanow-Minett
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“I would refer to scientist to better understand the reasoning for and the impact of legislations, especially on public health, the environment, agriculture, and our communities. Policies should be guided by the best available evidence along with the experiences of the people affected by it.”
KEYWORDS: Evidence-based, experts, impact
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?
“Mining projects near the Boundary Waters should meet strong environmental standards and demonstrate that they will not cause unacceptable harm to the watershed. I would support rigorous environmental review, strong water protections, and using the best available science before approving projects.”
KEYWORDS: Environment, Clean water, Review
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 support continued testing of drinking water, stronger protections against PFAS contamination, and making sure communities have the resources to treat contaminated water. I would also increase funding to research on how to protect our water and limit harm.”
KEYWORDS: Testing, prevention, funding
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 transparent environmental review and making sure data centers pay their fair share of the infrastructure and resources they use. I also believe that before any are built there should deep environmental impact reviews done.”
KEYWORDS: Accountability, Resources, Transparency
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 support continued investment in scientific research because it improves our understanding of the challenges facing Minnesota and can create jobs and economic opportunity. I would support funding research based on strong evidence, clear public benefit, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.”
KEYWORDS: Research, funding, innovation
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 support expanding access to treatment, mental health services, recovery programs, and overdose prevention tools like naloxone. We also need to make sure these resources reach communities experiencing the greatest disparities, including Indigenous and Black Minnesotans and ensure infrastructure for rural areas are up to the task provide those services.”
KEYWORDS: Treatment, prevention, access.