Liz Reyer
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“As a three-term state representative, I consistently work with scientists and other experts in their fields on issues including public health, medical care, climate, and environment. I also seek counsel when developing legislation.”
KEYWORDS: Consultation, expertise, respect
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’ve worked consistently to protect fragile watersheds and will continue to do so. My stated position has been (and remains) that I will look at any proposal with an open mind. However, I have a very high bar for support, especially for non-ferrous mining. I’ve been a co-author on many protection bills and have earned the support of leading BWCA activist organizations.”
KEYWORDS: Protect, Support, water
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’ve advocated for and co-authored PFAs bills to reduce ongoing harm and to remediate past harm. I strongly favor holding polluters responsible and I’m committed to clean water for all in our state.”
KEYWORDS: Accountability, remediation, prevention
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?
“In Minnesota, I’m committed to regulating AI and data center establishment as fully as we are able within our authority. This includes bills like banning deep fakes, which we’ve already passed. I’m also very interested in establishing guard rails for construction of data centers, making sure that environmental concerns, water usage, power usage, noise, and other neighborhood impacts are considered when allowing them to be built.
Beyond Minnesota, I participate in coalitions of state legislators on a national level. Thus far, I’ve been most active in healthcare-related groups. However, I think participating in or creating a group focused AI is a powerful way to take collective action to influence federal policy.”
KEYWORDS: Regulate, control, advocate
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’m an active advocate for research, especially focused on rare diseases as a member of the Rare Disease Advisory Council. I’m appalled by the federal harm that’s being done and advocate with our members of Congress. ”
KEYWORDS: Fund, advocate
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’m deeply concerned about health disparities in this realm and all other areas of health such as maternal and child health. I’ve worked to fund programs targeted to specific communities in order to better meet their needs and will continue to do so.”
KEYWORDS: Fund, targeted, disparities