John McClellan
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“If elected, I would rely on scientists as a key part of making informed, responsible decisions for the people of Minnesota. Whether it’s public health, environmental protection, infrastructure, or energy policy, I believe decisions should be guided by evidence, not politics. I would consult experts to understand the data, risks, and long-term impacts of policies before casting a vote. That also means listening to a diverse range of scientists, including those studying climate change, water quality, agriculture, and mental health. My role isn’t to replace their expertise, it’s to respect it and use it to shape policies that actually work for our communities. Minnesotans deserve leadership that values facts, transparency, and solutions grounded in real-world evidence.”
KEYWORDS: Trust experts, Accountability through data, Follow the science, Facts over politics
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?
“I strongly oppose efforts to weaken protections around the Boundary Waters. This is one of Minnesota’s greatest natural treasures, and once that kind of ecosystem is damaged, we can’t undo it. I believe we need to follow the science and listen to environmental experts who have made it clear that sulfide mining in this region poses a serious risk to clean water, wildlife, and the outdoor economy so many Minnesotans rely on. I would support reinstating and strengthening the mining ban, protecting the watershed through permanent federal safeguards, and investing in sustainable economic opportunities for the region. We can create good-paying jobs without putting our lakes and forests at risk”
KEYWORDS: Environmental stewardship, Protect the Boundary Waters, Sustainable development, Preserve Minnesota’s lakes and forests
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?
“PFAS contamination is a serious public health issue, and Minnesotans deserve clean, safe drinking water, no exceptions. I support strong, enforceable limits on PFAS based on the best available science, along with holding polluters accountable for cleanup costs so taxpayers aren’t left footing the bill. We need to invest in water treatment infrastructure, expand statewide testing, and ensure transparency so residents know what’s in their water. I also support phasing out non-essential uses of PFAS and strengthening regulations to prevent future contamination. This is about protecting our families, our health, and our environment. Clean water is a basic right, and I will fight to make sure every community in Minnesota can trust what comes out of their tap.”
KEYWORDS: Water quality protection, Invest in green infrastructure
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?
“Minnesota can benefit from data center investment, but it has to be done responsibly. I support requiring thorough environmental and community impact assessments before projects move forward, especially around energy use, water consumption, and strain on local infrastructure. These facilities should be powered by 100% clean energy and meet strong efficiency standards so they don’t set back our climate goals. I also believe in local input, communities deserve a real voice in decisions that affect their land and resources. We should ensure these projects create good-paying local jobs and contribute fairly to the communities they operate in. Growth is important, but it needs to be balanced with protecting our environment, our resources, and the long-term interests of Minnesotans.”
KEYWORDS: Responsible, ethical, transparency, data privacy, security
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 the reasons Minnesota remains a leader in innovation, healthcare, and economic growth. I support strong investments in science and research at both the state and federal levels because breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, technology, and environmental protection improve lives and create good-paying jobs. As a legislator, I would advocate for stable funding for universities, research institutions, and programs that bring new discoveries from the lab into our communities. I also believe we must protect the independence of scientists and ensure research decisions are based on evidence, not politics.”
KEYWORDS: invest, research, innovation, advancement, solutions
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?
“Seeing overdose deaths decline tells me that the work we are doing is making a difference, but we cannot ignore the communities that are still being hit the hardest. The fact that Indigenous and Black Minnesotans continue to experience overdose deaths at much higher rates means we need to do more. I believe in expanding access to treatment, mental health services, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and recovery support that is available when people are ready to ask for help. We also need to listen to communities and invest in programs that understand the unique challenges people face, including trauma, housing struggles, and financial stress. Addiction impacts families across Minnesota, and we need to respond with compassion, not judgment. Our goal should be simple: save lives and make sure every Minnesotan has a real chance at recovery.”
KEYWORDS: access, community, equity, treatment, invest in healthy communities