Liz Boldon
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“I refer to scientific expertise when legislation touches on related issues. My background as a nurse trained me to make decisions based on evidence, not assumptions, so I seek out researchers, data analysts, and subject‑matter experts early in the policymaking process. I consult scientists to help interpret data, understand emerging research, and evaluate the real‑world impacts of proposed policies on Minnesotans. I value their insight and expertise and take it into account as I decide how to vote on issues that come before me.”
KEYWORDS: evidence-based, expertise, partnership
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 have deep concerns about the risks mining near the Boundary Waters poses to one of the most fragile and beloved watersheds in the country. I oppose projects that threaten the region’s interconnected lakes, rivers, and wetlands, especially those involving sulfide‑ore mining, which, to my knowledge, has never been done safely in a water‑rich ecosystem like this. I support restoring long‑term protections for the Rainy River watershed, strengthening federal and state environmental review standards, and requiring independent, science‑based assessments of any proposed project. Minnesotans deserve policies that safeguard clean water, protect the outdoor economy, and ensure that decisions about this region are guided by rigorous scientific evidence.”
KEYWORDS: clean water, science-driven, protection
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 threat, and Minnesota needs strong, science‑based protections. I support fully enforcing and expanding Amara’s Law to restrict PFAS in consumer products and industrial uses, along with requiring manufacturers—not taxpayers—to pay for cleanup and long‑term monitoring. I also back stronger drinking‑water standards, statewide testing, and investments to help communities upgrade treatment systems. Finally, I support transparent reporting requirements and independent scientific review of any facility that uses or discharges PFAS, so Minnesotans can trust that their water is safe.”
KEYWORDS: protect, enforce, health
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?
“Hyperscale data centers pose significant risks to groundwater, energy demand, air quality, and long‑term community health, and Minnesota needs far more rigorous oversight before allowing additional projects. I support a statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centers until comprehensive, science‑based standards are in place. Those standards must include independent environmental reviews, limits on groundwater withdrawals, strict emissions rules for diesel backup generators, requirements for renewable‑energy sourcing, and transparent public reporting. I also support mandatory decommissioning plans that ensure facilities are responsibly dismantled, contaminated materials are removed, and sites are restored without leaving communities to shoulder the cost. Minnesota should move forward only when data—not industry pressure—shows these facilities can operate without harming our watersheds, air quality, or public health.”
KEYWORDS: moratorium, protections, accountability
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?
“Minnesota’s research institutions are national leaders, and continued investment in science is essential for our state’s health, economy, and innovation. We should continue to make state‑level investments that help Minnesota universities compete for major research grants. I also back policies that expand research infrastructure, strengthen partnerships between universities and industry, and ensure scientists have the resources needed to pursue long‑term, high‑impact work. While federal funding is now unpredictable, we know sustained science funding supports jobs, drives discovery, and keeps Minnesota at the forefront of medical, environmental, and technological innovation.”
KEYWORDS: investment, innovation, research
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 progress on reducing overdose deaths is encouraging, but the stark racial disparities make clear that we need stronger, targeted, evidence‑based interventions. I support expanding access to harm‑reduction tools like naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and medication‑assisted treatment, especially in communities experiencing the highest overdose rates. I also back culturally specific, community‑led programs for Indigenous and Black Minnesotans, along with increased funding for tribal nations and organizations already doing this work. Strengthening mental‑health and substance‑use treatment, improving access to stable housing, and expanding peer‑support services are essential to sustaining the downward trend. Finally, I support real‑time overdose surveillance and data‑sharing so policy decisions are guided by science and communities get resources where they’re needed most.”
KEYWORDS: equity, harm-reduction, data-driven