Zachary Dorholt
DemocraticQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“I have a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, and recognize the importance of consulting with those who have more knowledge and expertise, because I believe most people who go into the field of science are not doing it for themselves; they are doing it to gain knowledge and share it with others in hopes of improvement for the well-being of human kind. I will prioritize decision making processes being guided by sound evidence from experts in their respected fields.”
KEYWORDS: Research, evidence, consensus.
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?
“The BWCA is one of the most rare geological entities on Earth, and must be protected for future generations. If we cannot prove that mining can and will be safe, and that specific people, not corporations, will be held accountable if it’s not, then we need to keep our hands off. I also recognize the current and future demand for nickel and copper, which cannot be minimized in a society that is moving in a direction where technological advancements are needed for other sustainability purposes.”
KEYWORDS: Mindful, respectful, accountable.
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?
“By supporting Minnesota’s “Amra’s Law” that bans intentionally added PFAS.”
KEYWORDS: Adhere, Support, 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?
“I would like to see any data center development adhere to strict standards such as operating off the grid by utilizing closed-loop systems and sustainable/renewable energy sources without shifting any costs to Minnesota residents.”
KEYWORDS: Resident centered 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 economic vitality has been based upon our long-standing history of research and development through our college and university systems, and absolutely must continue to be a top priority. I want Minnesota to continue being a place where people can live and come to in order to learn and push the envelope with developing sciences, because we can and would benefit from being a place focused on the improvement of people’s lives through science.”
KEYWORDS: It’s a priority.
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?
“Putting resources where they’re needed the most. Through my work as a mental health provider, both in a clinic and correctional setting, I have spent many years working directly with those who are living with addiction, and have sadly seen many pass because of it. We do a decent job of “treatment” in Minnesota, but we have a lot more to do when it comes to “recovery,” including; stable/supportive housing programs, adhering to evidence based practices and prioritizing funding as such, supporting genuine culture appropriate mental health services that focus on more than just addiction, supporting integrated behavioral and chemical health services and provider programs, and creating an actual system in Minnesota that communicates effortlessly between providers and supports.”
KEYWORDS: Build the system.