Minnesota Candidate Page

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?

“Prority #3 on my web presentation: “3. Highly tax cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence operations, particularly as to their energy usage, and closely regulate artificial intelligence.” As a brief elaboration, insure the integrity of AI-generated communications over any media, and encourage full transparency in local permitting processes.”

KEYWORDS: honesty, accuracy, transparency

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?

“The rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers threatens to push our clean energy grid to its limit and strain local water supplies. While recent legislation took steps by ending electricity sales tax exemptions and requiring basic DNR water reviews, it did not go far enough to protect ratepayers and the environment. I support unyielding state-level regulations to act as a shield for our communities: Mandatory Closed-Loop Systems: Any facility using over 100 million gallons of water annually must be mandated—not just encouraged—to use closed-loop, recycling cooling systems to preserve critical groundwater. Grid Infrastructure Protections: We must strictly enforce that 100% of the massive energy infrastructure upgrades required by tech conglomerates are paid for upfront by the corporations themselves, guaranteeing utility bills never skyrocket for working-class families. Local Sovereignty and Transparency: I support empowering local municipalities to implement temporary development pauses or moratoria without the threat of corporate litigation, ensuring residents have a transparent, democratic say over noise, water, and grid impacts. We cannot allow massive tech companies to exhaust Minnesota’s resources for corporate profit while everyday citizens foot the bill.”

KEYWORDS: Closed-Loop Mandates

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?

“Across the political spectrum, regardless of background or geography, Minnesotans across our state are standing up and saying no to hyper-scale data centers in our backyards. These large hyper-scale projects could prove devastating to the health and wellbeing of our people, ecosystems, energy grid, and watersheds. I am in full support Sen. Jen McEwen’s hyper-scale data center moratorium legislation (a two-year pause) she authored this legislative session, and hope to pass similar legislation next session.

We must follow in the footsteps of states like New York and pass a temporary pause / data center moratorium to allow time for our state government to conduct adequate environmental impact studies and set forth strong regulations regarding data centers. In Minneapolis, we have had many local debates over data center developments. There have been countless concerns raised about the environmental and community impact of massive facilities, and our Minneapolis City Council approved a six-month moratorium on new data center development, with exceptions for smaller downtown projects.”

KEYWORDS: environmental impact / strong regulations / moratorium

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?

“”Right to privacy” is implied by a combination of amendments the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 9th, and 15th. 9th non-enumerated rights. I feel like the internet and social media together have crossed the line on infringing on right to privacy. They seem to use entrapment as a means of justification rather than it being unjust. The law should protect people from these desires rather than let corporations entrap them. AI is to unregulated at this time. Very hard on our children. Data centers will create more chaos.”

KEYWORDS: Loss of privacy.

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?

“Artificial intelligence and data centers represent significant opportunities for Minnesota’s economy, but growth must be managed responsibly. I support requiring large data center projects to evaluate impacts on electricity demand, water resources, transportation infrastructure, cybersecurity, and local communities before approval. Developers should prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, grid reliability, and partnerships with local utilities. Minnesota should encourage innovation while ensuring taxpayers are not left paying for infrastructure upgrades that primarily benefit private companies. AI also requires thoughtful governance that protects privacy, promotes transparency where appropriate, and prepares our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. We should welcome technological investment while protecting the communities that host it.”

KEYWORDS: Innovation, Sustainability, 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?

“Building something smarter than us is a reality that should give us pause. One of the scientists who invented AI, predicted that it would take over in ten years. We can not stop the billions of dollars invested in AI. I will author legislation to limit the construction of 765-kv transmission towers between states and regulatory agencies. I have e-mailed my concerns about the lack of need and eminent domain easements of 250 feet to connect@gophertobadgerlink.com. Re: Docket # 25-117, E002,ET2,ET6675,CN-22-532.”

KEYWORDS: Moratorium, fear, oversite

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 the right of municipalities to enact moratoriums on data centers, oppose the use of confidentiality agreements by local officials in all cases but especially when it comes to data centers and want to see any data centers built pay their fair share of taxes. While they can be built without a lot of water use (in same cases) by using HVAC systems for cooling, I still want to see strong environmental reviews for any proposed data centers built in Minnesota and want to see the companies building them use renewable energy.”

KEYWORDS: Renewable energy, pay taxes

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 am partially against data centers. I am fully against ordinary families paying for them. These facilities use as much electricity as a small city and millions of gallons of water for cooling. When a hyperscaler plugs into the grid, somebody builds the new generation and transmission to serve it. Too often that cost lands on every household’s electric bill while the tech company gets a tax break for showing up. My policies. First, the data center pays its own way. Full cost of the power and grid upgrades it demands, locked in by contract, so residential ratepayers are protected. Second, no water permits without an independent assessment of what the aquifer and local wells can spare. Farmers and rural families were there first. Third, tax breaks only if they are earned with permanent local jobs, not construction jobs that vanish in two years. Fourth, local governments keep the final say. No state or federal preemption of township and county decisions. Big Tech has plenty of lobbyists in Washington. I take no PAC money and no lobbyist money, so when the data center and your electric bill disagree, I work for you.”

KEYWORDS: electric rates, ratepayer protection, water use

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 can bring investment and jobs, but their impacts on electricity demand, water use, infrastructure, land use, and utility costs must be fully understood before local or state approvals are granted. I support requiring independent environmental and infrastructure reviews, public disclosure of projected energy and water use, and clear plans for managing emissions, backup generators, wastewater, and emergency response. I also support banning nondisclosure agreements between data center companies and local elected officials or public employees when those agreements prevent residents from understanding proposals that may affect their community. Public decisions involving major tax incentives, land use changes, or infrastructure commitments should be made transparently, with meaningful opportunities for public input. Developers should pay their fair share of required infrastructure upgrades so residents and other ratepayers are not left covering the costs. Minnesota should also establish enforceable efficiency standards, encourage renewable energy use, protect local water supplies, and require regular reporting after facilities begin operating. I believe innovation must be paired with transparency, accountability, and responsible long-term planning.”

KEYWORDS: Transparency, Sustainability, Oversight

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 full environmental review, including cumulative impacts on groundwater, wastewater, air quality, and the electric grid. Data centers should meet enforceable water and energy standards, disclose their projected and actual resource use, and pay for the infrastructure upgrades and other impacts they create. Their costs should not be shifted onto ratepayers or taxpayers. Local communities should receive early notice, meaningful public hearings, full information about project backers and public subsidies, and the authority to reject projects that do not fit their long-term plans. Public incentives should require clear benefits, including prevailing wages, local hiring, and infrastructure contributions. Developers should also provide financial assurances so communities are not left carrying the risk.”

KEYWORDS: environmental review, water protection, public transparency, local control

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?

“One of these proposed ones is a mile from my house and I work in IT, so I know them well. First, would be updating noise nuisance laws to accommodate low frequency and continuous sounds. Second, mandatory reporting of electricity and water usage above certain thresholds. Third, classifying hyperscale data centers as heavy industry. Forth, no NDAs.”

KEYWORDS: Modernization, Transparency, Personal

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?

“A one-year moratorium on the licensning of any new hylerscale data centers, with the interim period being used to carefully evaluate all the ramifications. Then a decision on how the state should regulate them.”

KEYWORDS: hyperscale moratorium

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 reasonable development of data centers that strengthens our economy while protecting local communities and natural resources. Before approval, projects should undergo thorough environmental and infrastructure reviews that evaluate impacts on energy demand, Water use, land use and local transportation. I support transparency in these assessments, meaningful public input and requirements for developers to help offset infrastructure costs. I also encourage the use of energy efficient technologies, water conservation measures and increased use of reliable, low emission energy sources where feasible. The goal is to welcome investments while ensuring the communities are not left bearing the environmental or financial cost.”

KEYWORDS: Responsible Technology Development

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

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 do not support Data centers, not enough information on cause and effects.”

KEYWORDS: Data centers may be harmful to the environment and to humans.

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?

“AI Data Centers are being built for the purposes of handling the data process of listing, categorizing and surveilling people without their knowledge and consent. AI is over hyped algorithmic intelligence, not “artificial intelligence.” I would advocate strongly against the expansion of AI Data Centers where they are not wanted. This applies to AI enabled hardware like surveillance cameras, which constitute a violation of the fourteenth amendment.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

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 AI innovation, but large data centers must be developed responsibly. I support requiring public hearings, environmental impact review, energy and water use reporting, grid and ratepayer protections, clean energy standards, water conservation, e-waste plans, host community benefits, tax incentive transparency, and prevailing wage requirements. Data centers should pay their own infrastructure costs and not shift burdens onto local residents.”

KEYWORDS: Innovation, Sustainability, Standards

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?

“As with any industry, the creation of an industrial workspace can have huge negative impacts on the people around them and the environment. We need to have independent environmental experts weigh in on this impact (not industry shills) and proceed accordingly. I have nothing against data centers per se, but they can’t be allowed to create noise hazards or deplete water resources. (And that should be true of every industry.)”

KEYWORDS: Independent Experts

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?

“At this time, I do not support expanding hyperscale data centers without stronger protections in place. Growing up on a farm taught me the importance of protecting our water and natural resources. I am concerned about the impact these facilities can have on water usage, energy demands, and the cost of electricity for families. Any future projects must fully protect our water, our environment, and the people of Minnesota.”

KEYWORDS: protect our recouces

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 actually halt any current hyperscale data centers currently being built and actually ban it. It does nothing except increase people’s electricity and water bills, pollute the water and is obnoxiously loud. And it’s useless when the AI bubble is about to pop. It is not the hype the media makes it to be.”

KEYWORDS: All hype, another dotcom bubble waiting to burst. MN will should bear the wait of the incoming crash. AI is fake. we’re nowhere close to it.

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 do not support data centers. This is the exact type of thing that needs to have cooling mechanisms regulated. If y’all knew the information they’re storing and who gets to use it for what, you would be 2A mfs, too. Data centers are for cities that can’t manage an economy so they need to sell out the environment and worsen global warming to compensate for their incompetent leadership. Instead, we should push ScIeNcE in order to develop something less detrimental to the environment. I’ve seen proposed space centers naturally cooled by the vacuum, but that seems unnecessary costly. We could also prioritize life on earth over every narcissist’s every GRWM being saved because that is the real cost of these sell-out options tech gives to incompetent leaders.”

KEYWORDS: Ai is a bubble because it will never generate revenue to be worth every American’s retirement fund investing in it, so we should stop.

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?

“Absent a major world war, no mining should occur in the BWCAW watershed.”

KEYWORDS: protect the BWCAW

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?

“locate mitigate regulate litigate (if needed) similar to superfund CERCLA cleanup processes”

KEYWORDS: locate mitigate regulate

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 am completely unyielding in my opposition to copper-sulfide mining in the watershed of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The passage of H.J. Res 140 is a devastating blow that strips away vital protections from 225,000 acres of public land, inviting irreversible “acid mine drainage” that can poison our pristine waterways with toxic heavy metals for centuries.

Now that federal shields have been dismantled, the State of Minnesota must act as an aggressive backstop to protect our environment, public health, and outdoor economy from corporate exploitation. I support the following state-level policies to defend the watershed:

State-Level Permanent Mineral Withdrawal: Enacting a state-level ban on copper-sulfide mining within the Rainy River watershed to create a permanent barrier that future congressional maneuvers cannot undo.”

KEYWORDS: Watershed Preservation Promised

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?

“The presence of toxic “forever chemicals” exceeding safety standards in 21 of our community water systems is a direct public health crisis. While Minnesota has taken steps through Amara’s Law to phase out nonessential PFAS use, we must scale up our response to protect residents’ health right now.

I propose a three-pronged legislative strategy to secure our drinking water:

Clean Water Emergency Funding: Meeting national safety standards will cost local communities heavily. We must establish a state-funded emergency grant program to help cities fast-track advanced filtration systems without passing the bill onto working-class families through skyrocketing water utility rates.

Enforce “Polluter Pays”: Large corporate manufacturers responsible for introducing these toxins into our environment must bear the financial burden of remediation. I support aggressive state legal action to force corporate polluters to pay for long-term water treatment infrastructure.

Choke Off Source Contamination: We must halt PFAS contamination at the source by strictly enforcing disclosures and aggressively restricting the industrial use of intentionally added PFAS unless independent, science-based reviews prove the use is completely unavoidable.”

KEYWORDS: Polluter Pays Principle

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?

“At a time when the federal government is actively rolling back key environmental protections, it is incumbent upon elected leaders in our State Legislature to take urgent measures and act to protect our watersheds, especially the Boundary Waters, from the threats of toxic mining. Our government should also be forward thinking and take action to ensure that we pass legislation to bring about environmental safeguards and clean water protections: implementing stringent regulations to curb heavy pollution from industry into our groundwater and watersheds, and protecting clean water for future generations to come.

I am proudly endorsed by countless environmental advocacy organizations that work tirelessly to advance clean water protections and champion the preservation of our environment. If re-elected, I will continue to support the brilliant policies brought forward by my colleagues including Prove It First, the Bad Actor Bill, Permanent Protection Bill, Amortization Bill, and the LCCMR / ENRTF package – all legislation that protects our boundary waters and watersheds from pollution and destruction.”

KEYWORDS: take action / permanent protection / 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 is arguably the most dangerous threat to our water and health across the globe. My office will work to protect Amara’s Law: the nation’s most comprehensive ban on PFAS, and protect the current definition of PFAS in Minnesota state statute: “‘Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances’ or ‘PFAS’ means a class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.”

I will support legislation which would expand upon Amara’s Law to protect our soil, groundwater, and drinking water from further PFAS contamination?

The chemical industry wants many consumer items exempt from Amara’s Law, but I will support protecting current PFAS bans and regulations amidst the onslaught of corporate attempts to receive carve-outs in future sessions.”

KEYWORDS: Amara’s Law / ban / regulations

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?

“This is very concerning. I worry about a self-sustaining ecosystem and the consequences of water contamination. I think studies should be done asking other countries how they have protected the environment. We used to be Minnesota kind. Look at where we are today. At present we are the land of 10,000 lakes will that still be the case? Will that also be past tense.”

KEYWORDS: Ecosystem

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 think it is time for facts. We need a student count of the health problems that our youth are facing. Then we need to get the facts on who and why. Can a better alternative be found? Slow down and research the decision first.”

KEYWORDS: Contamination the cannot be reversed is my concern.

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?

“Minnesota’s environment and natural resources are among our greatest assets, and they deserve careful stewardship. Mining has long been an important part of our economy, providing good-paying jobs and supporting communities across the state. I support responsible mining projects that meet rigorous, science-based environmental standards. Any project affecting the Boundary Waters watershed should undergo independent environmental review, continuous water-quality monitoring, strong financial assurances for cleanup, and meaningful public engagement. If credible scientific evidence demonstrates an unacceptable risk to the watershed or surrounding ecosystems, the project should not move forward. We should invest in cleaner mining technologies and modern environmental protections so Minnesota can remain both an environmental leader and a leader in responsible resource development.”

KEYWORDS: Stewardship, Responsible Mining, Science

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?

“Every Minnesotan deserves access to safe drinking water. PFAS contamination is a serious public health issue that requires prevention, accountability, and long-term investment. I support expanding statewide water testing, identifying contamination early, assisting communities with treatment infrastructure, and accelerating cleanup of affected sites. Companies responsible for contamination should be held financially accountable whenever permitted under the law. Minnesota should continue supporting research into effective PFAS treatment technologies while strengthening regulations that prevent future contamination. By combining sound science, responsible regulation, and targeted investment, we can protect public health without placing unnecessary burdens on local communities or taxpayers.”

KEYWORDS: Clean Water, Prevention, Accountability

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?

“Continue ban. Full, transparent, environmental review.”

KEYWORDS: thorough, regulated, transparent

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?

“Monitoring and oversite”

KEYWORDS: Safety First

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 support prove it first policies and believe that mining should only happen where it can be done safely and consistent with the highest environmental standards. I’m proud to be endorsed by Save the Boundary Waters and Friends of the Boundary Waters organizations.”

KEYWORDS: Clean water, clear air, natural habitat

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 overturning the EPAs recent rollback of regulations on PFAS and support the proposed polices of Clean Water Action to stop PFAS at the point of origin and to strengthen state regulations on PFAS/forever chemicals.”

KEYWORDS: EPA, Clean Water Action Policies

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 am not against mining. Iron Range miners built this district and I want mining jobs here. But H.J. Res 140 is not about American mining. Twin Metals is owned by Antofagasta, a Chilean conglomerate. The minerals would likely be processed in Chinese-owned smelters. The President signed an executive order treating critical minerals as a national security issue. Handing our copper and nickel to a foreign firm feeding China’s supply chain contradicts that order. Pete Stauber sponsored this resolution. Look at his donor list and ask who he was working for. The Boundary Waters is a national treasure and an economic engine. Sulfide-ore mining in that watershed carries acid drainage risk that lasts generations. Water flows north into the wilderness. You do not get a second chance with that. My position: no sulfide-ore mining in the Rainy River watershed until independent science proves it can be done without polluting it, and the burden of proof sits on the mining company. American-owned projects outside sensitive watersheds should get faster permits, not slower. Protect the water, put Americans first in our own mines, and make Congress answer to voters instead of mining PACs.”

KEYWORDS: Antofagasta, foreign ownership, national security

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 was invented in Minnesota. 3M made these chemicals for decades while knowing the risks, and now 21 Minnesota community water systems exceed federal limits. Families drank that water. That is not a partisan issue. It is a poisoning issue. I live on well water. My family eats what we grow and drinks what comes out of the ground. Clean water is not an environmental slogan to me. It is dinner. My policies are simple. First, polluter pays. The companies that made and dumped PFAS fund the cleanup and the filtration, not the ratepayers and not the taxpayers. Second, fund testing for private wells, because rural families are on their own right now. Third, stop new PFAS from entering products where safer alternatives exist. Fourth, hold the Pentagon to the same cleanup standards as everyone else on contaminated bases. In 2021 the House voted on the PFAS Action Act to set drinking water standards and force cleanup. Pete Stauber voted no. Check his donor list, then check that vote. I take no PAC money, so when the polluter and the water bill are on opposite sides, I am free to side with the water.”

KEYWORDS: clean drinking water, 3M, PFAS Action Act

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 committed to supporting a ban on mining within the Boundary Waters watershed. This is a uniquely sensitive and valuable natural area, and protecting its water quality must come before mining proposals that could create long-term environmental risks. I would support reinstating the 20-year ban on new mining in the watershed and working toward permanent protections. I would also support rigorous environmental review, consultation with Tribal nations, strong water-quality protections, ongoing monitoring, and financial-assurance requirements so taxpayers are never left responsible for cleanup. In this region, the potential consequences of pollution are too serious and too lasting. We have a responsibility to protect this resource for future generations.”

KEYWORDS: Science, Stewardship, Future

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?

“Every Minnesotan deserves safe drinking water. I would support a comprehensive PFAS strategy focused on prevention, testing, treatment, and accountability. Minnesota should continue phasing out nonessential PFAS uses under Amara’s Law and avoid loopholes that allow preventable contamination to continue. Stopping PFAS at the source is more effective and affordable than relying on communities to remove it later. I would expand monitoring of public water systems and private wells, require clear public notification, and provide state grants, bonding, and technical assistance for filtration systems, replacement wells, and other remediation. Communities should not have to choose between safe water and unaffordable utility bills. Because drinking water is only one source of PFAS exposure, treatment must be paired with broader pollution-prevention policies. I also support strong discharge standards and polluter-pays policies so responsible companies, rather than residents and taxpayers, bear cleanup costs. As a city council member, I understand the infrastructure burdens PFAS creates for local governments, and my Ph.D. in design and sustainability taught me to evaluate environmental decisions across their full life cycle.”

KEYWORDS: Prevention, Safety, Accountability

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 oppose mining in the Boundary Waters watershed. I support restoring permanent protections for the federal lands surrounding the Boundary Waters. At the state level, I support the Boundary Waters Permanent Protection Bill and the Prove-It-First Bill.”

KEYWORDS: clean water, permanent protections, polluteer accountability

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 passing enforceable standards for PFAS in drinking water and wastewater; statewide testing and public reporting; testing and remediation assistance for private well owners; phasing out nonessential uses of PFAS; and a PFAS cleanup fund that requires PFAS manufacturers and sellers to help pay for testing and cleanup.”

KEYWORDS: PFAS prevention, statewide testing, public reporting, polluter accountability, cleanup funding

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?

“While we have come a long way in the technology and techniques when it comes to this kind of mining, I think it still needs more advancement before we consider mining that close to the Boundary Waters. I do not agree with having someone else be the guinea pig in these cases so I am against legislation that says someone else needs to try it first. I would need clear proof that the mining would have an extremely low or no impact on the boundary waters.”

KEYWORDS: Advancement, NIMBY, Proof

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?

“We need to invest in the study, creation, and implementation of technology or systems that can begin to clean PFAS from our water. We also need to do the same to prevent more PFAS from entering the water in the first place.”

KEYWORDS: Advancement, Prevention, Implementation

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 support environmentally safe mining.”

KEYWORDS: envirentally safe

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?

“Pursue the poluters, make them pay for restoration, and enforce laws to protect us going forward.”

KEYWORDS: poluters pay, protection

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’d support responsible mining only if the project passed strict, science-based environmental reviews and demonstrated clear benefits. I’d prioritize protection of the watershed through robust buffers, continuous water quality monitoring, meaningful tribal consultation and enforceable safeguards. If those standards can’t be met, the project shouldn’t proceed.”

KEYWORDS: Science Based Stewardship

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 a comprehensive approach to PFAS contamination that prioritizes safe drinking water and public health. That includes regular testing of public water systems, transparent reporting of contamination levels, targeted funding to help communities install effective treatment technologies and holding polluters accountable when contamination can be traced to responsible parties. I also support reducing future PFAS releases through practical regulations and continued investment in research and safer alternatives.”

KEYWORDS: Science Based Prevention

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

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 believe in protecting our beautiful State of Minnesota, and our environment from harmful mining practices which include financial benefits, harmful chemicals and gasses that disrupt the natural cycles of earth we live on, also this effect all animals too.”

KEYWORDS: We should continue to implement the ban to protect the kand, and thise whoe live near it.

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?

“We as a state should support eliminating PFAS, by continuing testing, eliminating products that carry high levels of PFAS, plastics, do more of organic materials, paper products, and glass as safer alternatives.”

KEYWORDS: Eliminate harmful products, improve quality of life

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 don’t believe we should be mining in areas where there is extreme risk for environmental disaster. Couple that with the fact that industrial mining can hurt tourism which helps to drive the economies of small towns. There are locations around the U.S. that would be much better candidates for large industrial mining operations.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

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?

“It’s a two pronged approach. On the prevention side we need to advocate for less plastic waste and more recycling options and operations. Secondly we employ bold civil engineering to go beyond wide spread clean up efforts. Forever chemicals and PFAS will not come out of the water unless we filter it out. I believe in hyper-industrialization that actually works with and aids our environment, and it really is the only way to keep up with what our modern society demands.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

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 Boundary Waters is one of our greatest natural treasures. I support a prove it first approach. Any mining proposal must demonstrate it can be done safely without harming clean water. Science based review, strong environmental protections, and Tribal consultation should guide every decision.”

KEYWORDS: Prove it First, Clean Water, Science Based

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?

“Minnesota has already taken national leadership by banning intentionally added PFAS in products through Amara’s Law, with protections phasing in through 2032. I support full implementation, strong reporting requirements, testing and cleanup of contaminated drinking water, and holding polluters accountable so families have safe, clean water.”

KEYWORDS: Ban, Cleanup, Accountability

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 industries in the US have a horrendous track record of despoiling the environment and leaving behind the mess for the public to clean up. Any mining project that is proposed should be subject to strict scrutiny by independent environmental experts, not industry lobbyists. Natural resources belong to all people, and those extracting them have the responsibility to do so without impacting the environment negatively.”

KEYWORDS: Independent Experts

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?

“If this is the case, we need to increase our efforts at detecting these chemical pollutants and tracking down their sources (by hiring appropriate environmental experts). Industries need to pay for the cleanup of the messes they cause and substantial fines (as percentages of revenue) need to be levied against them if they continue, so they don’t write off the minor fines they pay now as “cost of doing business”.”

KEYWORDS: Detect, Trace, Fine

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?

“As a farm girl, I understand the value of clean water and healthy land. I will do everything I can to protect the Boundary Waters because clean water is one of our greatest resources. As someone running for office, I believe it is my responsibility to protect what God has given us and keep it clean and safe for future generations.”

KEYWORDS: ENVIRONMENT SHOULD BE PROTECTED

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 learned the importance of protecting our soil, water, and land. PFAS contamination threatens the health of our families and future generations. I support stronger protections, holding polluters accountable, and ensuring clean drinking water for every Minnesotan. We must protect the resources God gave us and keep them safe for our children and grandchildren.”

KEYWORDS: protect the environment

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 understand it brings jobs, but we have to be cautious of the environmental damage and pollution it can cause especially to our waters. It’s extremely important to have clean waters. Since it has already passed, I would propose policies to require any mining companies in the area to clean after themselves. Keep the waters clean and if there is an ounce of pollution in the water, the mining company will be sued and required to clean up the water in the area.”

KEYWORDS: A healthy Environment = Clean food, Clean food = Healthy foods, Healthy food = wealthy state.

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?

“Force the companies that caused the forever chemicals to be in the water to clean the water. if not they will be sued and cease to operate in MN.”

KEYWORDS: A healthy Environment = Clean food, Clean food = Healthy foods, Healthy food = wealthy state.

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 want to protect preserved nature at all costs. I would definitely oppose anything that could risk other life forms we have never and will never have the right to take.”

KEYWORDS: Protect the environment over profits

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?

“It’s not too much to ask that we mandate use of new science that allows people to recycle water and have their own closed cooling systems. I would push to update science in a republican way. Keith Ellison will lose a lawsuit and gripe, I’ll vote to give financial incentives to companies that update their systems in order to protect the environment. Why is the democratic stance of suing businesses for doing business they initially allowed presented as scientific? Nonsense.”

KEYWORDS: Democrats are generally dumber and poorly educated, either that or lying evil people

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 have over 25 years of experience with Mental Health and Chemical Dependency cases in Hennepin County District Court. Continue treatment funding, case management inside and outside of treatment facilities, and community education”

KEYWORDS: treatment management education

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?

“While Minnesota’s overall decline in fatal overdoses is a major step forward, the stark racial disparities show that our current safety nets are failing our Indigenous and Black neighbors. To ensure the downward trend reaches every community, I support targeted, culturally localized public health policies. First, we must directly empower Tribal Nations and Black-led community organizations by establishing decentralized, stable state funding. This will allow local leaders to expand mobile harm reduction units and establish culturally specific peer-recovery networks right where they are needed most.Second, I support standardizing comprehensive addiction care and evidence-based medicine across all regional correctional systems. Because individuals released from correctional facilities face a tragically elevated risk of overdose, we must build seamless continuity of care as they transition back into our communities. Finally, I will advocate for widespread community access to critical, life-saving resources—like naloxone saturation programs and drug-checking test strips—to counter emerging, hyper-potent synthetic adulterants. By removing corporate and bureaucratic barriers to healthcare, we can shield family budgets and save lives.”

KEYWORDS: Universal Healthcare Resources

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 have been a prominent advocate for overdose prevention, including authoring 2021 state legislation that successfully decriminalized fentanyl test strips in Minnesota. I have consistently used my platform to advocate for harm-reduction strategies such as legislative action & advocacy

My bill to exempt fentanyl test strips from drug paraphernalia laws was credited with allowing community organizations to distribute over 100,000 strips to help users identify potentially lethal drugs and take overdose-prevention measures. I have frequently spoken out about the devastating impacts of the opioid crisis, particularly the dangers of fentanyl flooding the state, and next session we must continue to push for wider access to life-saving overdose medications like naloxone.”

KEYWORDS: prevention / advocacy / harm-reduction

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?

“Border security, mail security, US random highway checks for drug trafficking 90 and 35. Stricter border checks between the U>S> and Canada. Both governments working together to target drug trafficking.”

KEYWORDS: Working with other states and countries.

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 recent decline in overdose deaths is encouraging, but every life lost is one too many. I support expanding access to mental health care, substance use treatment, medication-assisted treatment, recovery housing, peer support, and overdose prevention resources such as naloxone. We must continue disrupting fentanyl trafficking while recognizing that addiction is both a public health and public safety challenge. I also support community-based partnerships that improve outreach and treatment in populations experiencing disproportionately high overdose rates, including Indigenous and Black Minnesotans. Success will require better coordination between healthcare providers, social services, law enforcement, and local communities. Our goal should be to save lives, strengthen families, and help people recover so they can fully participate in Minnesota’s economy and communities.”

KEYWORDS: Prevention, Recovery, Public Health

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?

“Decriminalization, return funding”

KEYWORDS: Love your neighbor.

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 funding for treatment over simple incarceration and want to continue investing in helping our homeless population get more support and outreach, due to the overwhelming impacts of alcohol and addiction on this population. I also support many harm reduction policies promoted by addiction recovery advocates.”

KEYWORDS: Harm reduction, treatment over incarceration

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?

“Every one of those numbers is a neighbor. The Eighth District is home to several Ojibwe nations, so the disparity in your question is not a statistic to me. It is families in my district burying their kids. The decline proves something works. Naloxone saves lives, so keep it cheap and everywhere, including schools, bars, and squad cars. Treatment works when you can actually get it, so my first priority is rural access. In much of my district the nearest detox bed or medication-assisted treatment provider is an hour or more away. That kills people. Second, fund tribal nations directly. Tribes run some of the most effective recovery programs in Minnesota because they built them for their own communities. Money should go straight to them, not through layers of agencies that skim and slow it. Third, hit supply hard. Fentanyl traffickers and the Chinese precursor pipeline deserve prosecution, not the addict who needs a bed. Fourth, follow the evidence. If a program saves lives, fund it. If it does not, cut it. I take no pharmaceutical PAC money, so I can back what works instead of what pays.”

KEYWORDS: naloxone, rural treatment access, tribal nations

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 a comprehensive public health approach that combines prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and accountability. Minnesota should expand access to naloxone, including through schools, libraries, first responders, community organizations, and treatment providers, while ensuring people know how to use it. We should also strengthen access to medication-assisted treatment, mental health care, recovery housing, and peer support, especially in rural and underserved communities. The severe disparities affecting Indigenous and Black Minnesotans require targeted action. I would support culturally responsive programs developed in partnership with Tribal nations, Black-led organizations, local public health departments, and people with lived experience. Funding should follow the data and support all people who struggle with substance use. I also support stronger efforts to disrupt fentanyl trafficking, improve prescription monitoring, and expand early intervention and substance-use education. As someone who has worked with justice-involved veterans experiencing mental health and substance-use challenges, I understand that punishment alone does not solve addiction. Minnesota should focus on saving lives, removing barriers to treatment, and helping people achieve long-term recovery.”

KEYWORDS: Prevention, Treatment, Equity

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 continued funding for naloxone access, harm reduction, medication-assisted treatment, recovery services, and overdose prevention education. We should also expand treatment and mental health services in rural areas, where distance and provider shortages remain major barriers. Because Indigenous and Black Minnesotans face much higher overdose death rates, opioid-settlement and state funding should prioritize Tribal nations and culturally specific, community-led programs.”

KEYWORDS: harm reduction, treatment access, rural healthcare, culturally specific programs

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?

“We should take what has been working, I’m assuming here that the decline is due to some sort of change in either how drug issues are treated or cared for, and make sure that Indigenous and Black Minnesotans also have access to them. Treatments and help needs to be available and affordable to everyone.”

KEYWORDS: Availability, affordability, Everyone

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?

“Strong law enforcement to remove those who sell illegal narcotics, work with private mental health and addiction care centers to treat addiction, education in all communities.”

KEYWORDS: law enforcement, treatment

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 a comprehensive approach to reducing overdose deaths that combines prevention, treatment, recovery and public safety. This includes expanding access to evidence-based addiction treatment, increasing the availability of overdose reversal medications such as the naloxone, strengthening mental health services and disrupting the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs. I also support improving community outreach and ensuring that prevention and treatment resources are accessible to populations experiencing disproportionately high overdose rates. The goal is to save lives, support long-term recovery and reduce the impact of addiction across all Minnesota communities.”

KEYWORDS: Recovery - Prevention - Enforcement

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

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?

“We need to move from voluntary treatment rehabilitation, to involuntary treatment after 3 months to decline drug impact on human life, and to improve quality of life and longterm, for all communities affected.”

KEYWORDS: Treatment, rehabilitate, longterm.

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 still has a major issue with Fentanyl even after the Covid-lockdown peaks. Stopping overdoses starts with border security and foreign policy. I would advocate for the full designation of drug cartels as terrorist organizations and involve U.S. Military intervention against them. I would advocate to place penalties on Latin American countries who we see the drug trade coming from. I stand firm by the Monroe Doctrine and would enforce the naval supremacy of the United States in the Western Hemisphere to deter Fentanyl shipments from China to Latin America. Strict border protections would then act as a secondary barrier against these drugs entering the country.

At home we need a complete overhaul of our justice system. For criminals of victimless crimes I see no problem in restorative justice, but for those who placed others in harms way we need to bring back punitive justice. The only way to keep minority neighborhoods safe from crime is to keep the criminals off the street and in prison. That doesn’t mean over-policing that punishes people for minor infractions, but it does mean that when the real bad guys do get caught they don’t come back to the neighborhood anytime soon.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

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?

“As Chair of Human Services, I support continuing the progress in reducing overdose deaths by expanding prevention, treatment, and harm reduction. That means broad access to naloxone, fentanyl test strips, culturally specific outreach, medication-assisted treatment, recovery housing, mental health care, and stronger community-based services.

Because Indigenous and Black Minnesotans continue to face disproportionate overdose deaths, resources must be targeted to the communities most impacted, with Tribal and community leadership guiding the response.”

KEYWORDS: Harm Reduction, Equity, Treatment

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?

“We should follow the European model which has proven to work so well in Portugal and other places by decriminalizing addiction and treating it as the mental and physical health emergency it is, instead of a criminal matter. Furthermore, we can reduce addiction by improving the general support for the poor and unhoused. Addiction is most frequent amongst those segments of the population, and improving the general welfare will have its own amelioration effect on addiction.”

KEYWORDS: Treatment, Decriminalize, Support

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 have to respectfully disagree with the numbers presented because I see the impact of this crisis firsthand in my community near George Floyd Square. I have also experienced being unhoused, and I understand how important it is to create programs that truly help people. I believe we need a compassionate but practical approach. We must provide people with a real choice to get help, including treatment, support services, and a safe place to recover away from the environment that contributed to their struggles. Sometimes people need a new beginning in a different environment to have a real opportunity to change. I also believe we must meet people where they are. Not everyone is ready for help at the same time, but when they are ready, we must have a bed, resources, and a support system available to help them rebuild their lives.”

KEYWORDS: PEOPLE FIRST

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?

“Actually bring in experts who know how to reduce the issue for blacks and natives. Help uplift their communities economically and try our best to fix communities instead of trying to create a criminal class.”

KEYWORDS: The #1 important thing to me. A healthy MN is a wealthy MN.

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?

“First of all, I worked at a nonprofit and no they’re not. The MN government just crashed the systems so they would not have to count the people who made it look like they were running the government terribly and Tim Walz would look like a good VP pick. Actually, no one in charge cares about them and when the bodies are found, no one investigates it at all. Native Americans just kept on keeping track of each other and they care when their people just start disappearing. Narcan is great, though. I also support the DEA, but this survey is full of misinformation in the questions. Legit journalists wouldn’t cite a hacked system unless it was to report on what was happening with the hack.”

KEYWORDS: Healthcare kills people for profit and there is no public health, only public illness and a few, “crazy” people who are healthy because they believe in cures instead of pain management, which goes against MN scientists.

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?

“Continue funding at (at least) 2024 levels.”

KEYWORDS: preserve historical funding

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?

“Federal funding through the NIH is a vital economic and scientific engine for Minnesota, but we cannot rely on Washington alone to secure our state’s innovation economy. I plan to support robust state-level policies that amplify these federal investments and protect our local research workforce.

First, I will advocate for expanding state-backed matching funds—similar to the state’s bioinnovation and environmental trust funds—to help Minnesota universities and independent researchers bridge federal grant cycles. This ensures critical health and safety research never grinds to a halt due to federal gridlock. Second, I support aggressively investing in state higher education infrastructure to maintain world-class clinical, training, and laboratory spaces, keeping Minnesota competitive for top-tier scientific talent.

Finally, I will fight to protect these research jobs from corporate exploitation, ensuring state funding prioritizes public-health and community-driven advancements rather than special-interest profits. By building a solid state-level foundation, we can shield our public universities, secure thousands of working-class tech and research jobs, and ensure Minnesota remains a global leader in scientific discovery that benefits everyday people.”

KEYWORDS: Public Health Prioritization

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?

“As Chair of the Minnesota Senate Higher Education Committee, I oversee state funding appropriations for universities and public research systems in Minnesota. I have been a vocal proponent of public research funding, particularly in the wake of federal grant disruptions and cuts affecting the University of Minnesota.

My office spearheaded Senate omnibus legislation to allocate billions to Minnesota’s higher education and research sectors, specifically defending state special funds designated for the University of Minnesota’s academic research and biological collections, public health research, environmental science, conservation efforts, and initiatives like the Minnesota Geological Survey, which rely on state legislative appropriations to study water, minerals, and land use.

I oppose federal grant cuts (such as NIH grant rollbacks) and federal rule changes that threaten merit-based science. We must reversing these cuts to protect and fully fund local medical studies, jobs, and scientific discovery.”

KEYWORDS: legislative appropriations / public health / fully fund

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 feel like debate teams should be set up to justify if the grant was justified and have it televised for public learning and knowledge. I would also like to see where the grants have gone. Take a pause on the funding.”

KEYWORDS: Three ways of showing evidence of value to society.

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 Minnesota’s greatest competitive advantages. Our universities, healthcare systems, and private research institutions create discoveries that improve lives while supporting thousands of high-quality jobs. I support continued investment in scientific research at both the state and federal levels, particularly in medicine, agriculture, manufacturing, clean energy, and artificial intelligence. Research funding should encourage collaboration between universities, government, and private industry to move discoveries from the laboratory into Minnesota businesses and communities. Taxpayer investments should be transparent, accountable, and focused on delivering measurable public benefits while preserving scientific independence. Investing in research today strengthens Minnesota’s economy, workforce, and quality of life for generations to come.”

KEYWORDS: Research, Innovation, Economic Growth

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 will fully support science and research. First, I need a miracle to get elected.”

KEYWORDS: science communication

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?

“As a Regent on the Board of the University of Minnesota I am deeply passionate about funding our universities and science. I support making college more affordable as well, but want to see the cuts to science at the federal level restored!”

KEYWORDS: Fund science, support higher education

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?

“Research pays. As a farmer I benefit every season from work done at land grant universities. Disease resistant crops, soil science, pollinator research that keeps beekeepers like me in business. The NIH numbers in your question tell the same story in medicine. This is one of the few places government spends a dollar and gets more than a dollar back. Here is my problem. Congress cannot fund research reliably because Congress cannot budget at all. Continuing resolutions, shutdown threats, and last minute deals whiplash every lab in the country. Scientists spend their time writing grant applications instead of doing science because nobody knows what next year looks like. My policies. Stable multi-year funding for core research agencies so labs can plan. Grants awarded on merit and open competition, not on which university hired the better lobbyist. Full public transparency on where every research dollar goes, because taxpayer confidence is what keeps the money flowing. And my CAPT Act suspends congressional pay when Congress fails to pass a real budget, because the biggest threat to American research is not any one cut. It is a Congress that will not do its job.”

KEYWORDS: merit-based grants, CAPT Act, congressional 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?

“Scientific research strengthens Minnesota’s economy, improves public health, and creates high-quality jobs. As a state senator, I would support sustained state investment in the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State institutions, public-private research partnerships, and competitive grant programs that help researchers secure and leverage federal funding. I would also work with Minnesota’s congressional delegation to advocate for stable NIH and other federal research appropriations. Minnesota should prioritize research that addresses major public needs, including disease prevention and treatment, mental health, environmental contamination, clean water, agricultural resilience, medical technology, and emerging technologies. I would support investments in laboratories, research infrastructure, and education programs that prepare students for careers in science, engineering, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Funding decisions should be transparent, competitive, and guided by scientific merit and measurable public benefit. As a University of Minnesota Ph.D. graduate and former higher education department chair, I understand that research funding is both an investment in discovery and an important economic-development strategy for Minnesota.”

KEYWORDS: Research, Innovation, Investment

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?

“The state cannot replace the full scale of federal research funding, but it should consider temporary bridge funding when unexpected federal disruptions threaten promising research, skilled jobs, or Minnesota’s ability to compete for future grants. Minnesota should also challenge unlawful or politically motivated efforts to cancel grants that have already been awarded. At the state level, I support stable funding for the Minnesota’s research universities and targeted investments in research that addresses Minnesota’s needs, including medical research, agriculture, water quality, and public health.”

KEYWORDS: bridge funding, stable funding

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 would ensure current state funding is kept intact and add to it where we need additional research for any subject. We can’t make decisions if we don’t have the information. I do not have anything more specific at this time, but I am always in favor of more information where feasible.”

KEYWORDS: Knowledge, Decisions, Important

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?

“Protecting the taxpayers’ money is the first obligation of a Governor. We can support research that will benefit a broad constituency but must carefully examine that suppor prior to any awards and then closely monitor progress.”

KEYWORDS: essential, scrutinized

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 sustained public investment in scientific research because it drives innovation, strengthens our economy, improves public health and creates high quality jobs. I would support stable, merit-based funding for research institutions, universities and National laboratories while ensuring transparency, accountability and reasonable stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I also encourage partnerships between government, academia and private industry to accelerate the development of new technologies and medical breakthroughs. Investments and research should be guided by scientific merit, National priorities and the potential to deliver meaningful public benefits.”

KEYWORDS: Research Fuels Prosperity

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

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?

“We will continue to support Science Funding with research grants and contracts to Minnesota University’s, to improve research regarding Science for State and Federal levels.”

KEYWORDS: Science Funding is necessary.

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?

“We need a wide sweeping federal audit of all research and development grants and contracts to make sure progress is delivered from that funding. Employing people to do work that isn’t valuable is not something the Federal Government can afford to fund when we are 40 trillion dollars in debt. Not saying the work they do isn’t valuable but I would need to assess that for myself and for the regular constituents of this state.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

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 strongly support continued science research funding at both the state and federal levels. Research investments save lives, create jobs, grow our economy, and keep us competitive. I support protecting NIH and NSF funding, expanding state matching grants, supporting early career scientists, and strengthening partnerships with universities, health systems, and innovators.”

KEYWORDS: Research, Jobs, Funding

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?

“As a member of the state legislature, it would be necessary to make sure that our state and educational systems are properly set up to be in compliance with funding guidelines and reporting, and to make sure funds are spent appropriately. We should be careful to fund research at institutions of learning and make sure we’re not funding private profit.”

KEYWORDS: Compliance, Auditing, Public

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?

“NIH funding is an important investment in Minnesota’s healthcare, research, and economy. These grants support scientists, healthcare workers, students, and research jobs, but we also need transparency about how these dollars impact our communities. I support continued investment in research while ensuring accountability, tracking the jobs supported, and making sure taxpayer-funded research benefits Minnesota families.”

KEYWORDS: protect Jobs

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 would continue the current plan, but emphasize more on health, food, and finding cures to chronic illness. All research is useless if there is no healthy people to do the research.”

KEYWORDS: important, but must focus on Health, Food, and Chronic illness. The people’s well being matters more than profit.

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 would support a fully government-run healthcare system that is a lot more competitive than the current industry because that would shift the incentives and push scientists to do real science again. The U of M just put out recently that they developed the first artificial cell. No they didn’t and I don’t want to pay for entitled kids to be deluded into thinking they did something significant only to be preachy and wrong while the government mandates that we listen to them. That was done at UNC last month and has been an ongoing project since last century. Science has started to feel like every 4 year old who built a robotic car with a pre-made kit gets a news segments for their genius invention and no, taxpayers shouldn’t be paying for any part of that ego-chasing, ignorant delusion.”

KEYWORDS: Universal healthcare cured cancer in Europe.

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I have an extremely high level of trust in traditional science. As a career attorney I know that the facts, not the biases, lead to the result.”

KEYWORDS: Complete inescapable reliable

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“When evaluating policy, referring to scientists and empirical data is not just important—it is an absolute necessity for objective, human-centric governance.

I will consistently look to scientific experts to understand the objective reality of complex issues, free from corporate spin. This is especially vital when navigating major public health initiatives, mapping out localized environmental protections to defend our air and water, and managing emerging technologies like AI data centers to ensure they do not devastate our power grids or ground water resources.

However, looking to science means seeking objective data on what is happening, not letting unelected bodies dictate how we govern. Scientists provide the crucial facts and risk assessments, but as an elected official, my job is to take that evidence and balance it with a fierce dedication to civil liberties, worker protections, and constitutional rights. I will use science as a guiding light to cut through special-interest lobbying, ensuring our state’s policies are grounded in hard truth while firmly protecting the autonomy and well-being of everyday working Minnesotans.”

KEYWORDS: Empirical Fact-Finding

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“On issues such as climate justice, resisting corporate polluters, and ways the State can better honor and uphold Treaties, I will always follow the leadership of our environmental advocates, research scientists, Indigenous elders and Tribal leadership. On the pressing issues of our time such as pipelines, data centers, copper nickel sulfide mining, a just transition, and energy, I will listen to researchers, scientists, and community leaders in confronting the climate crisis that threatens all of, and follow the leadership of Indigenous community leaders that are fighting climate disaster and environmental racism.”

KEYWORDS: climate crisis / climate justice / environmental advocates

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I would like to hear from more than one scientist or school even the knowledge of other countries. I would also like to consult other colleagues in the profession and workforce.”

KEYWORDS: I like real data and facts more than just written words.

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“Science should be a cornerstone of good government, but it should never be the only voice at the table. As Governor, I will rely on scientists, engineers, physicians, economists, agricultural experts, and researchers when evaluating policies involving public health, infrastructure, natural resources, energy, education, and emerging technologies. I believe decisions should be guided by credible evidence, peer-reviewed research, and transparent data while also considering economic impacts, constitutional rights, and the everyday experiences of Minnesotans. Science helps us understand what is possible and what the likely consequences of our choices will be. It is the responsibility of elected leaders to balance that knowledge with the values and priorities of the people they serve.”

KEYWORDS: Evidence-Based, Transparency, Collaboration

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I trust science.”

KEYWORDS: verification

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I will rely on scientists to help inform my views on a lot of policies, including on climate change, education and any areas where the views of scientists would be most beneficial.”

KEYWORDS: Truth, peer-review, testing hypothesis

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I am a farmer and beekeeper. Science is not abstract to me. I use it to test soil, water, and hive health. I use it everyday because my livelihood depends on getting the facts right. If a vote touches science, I want to hear from scientists before I vote. I would seek input directly from researchers, including the University of Minnesota Extension and scientists who live and work in the Eighth District, not just whoever a lobbyist sends to my office. I would never vote on something without hearing multiple positions on it. Good science includes disagreements. I want to hear the strongest case on each side, ask hard questions, and then make the call myself. That is what I would owe the people I represent. I don’t take PAC money, and would not take lobbyist money. That matters here. When a member of Congress hears from a scientist, the question is whether they are listening to evidence or a donor. I answer to my district, so the evidence can actually reach me.”

KEYWORDS: Evidence-based decisions, multiple perspectives, accountability

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I would consult scientists throughout the legislative process, especially when evaluating policies involving public health, environmental protection, emerging technology, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic development. I would look to peer-reviewed research, testimony from subject-matter experts, Minnesota’s public universities, state agency scientists, and professionals working directly in affected fields. I would also ask experts to explain the strength of the evidence, areas of uncertainty, potential unintended consequences, and how proposed policies could be measured over time. My Ph.D. in design and sustainability, experience in global manufacturing, and service in higher education taught me to value rigorous research while also asking practical questions about implementation. Science should not be treated as partisan. It should help lawmakers understand risks, compare options, and make decisions that improve people’s lives. I would combine scientific evidence with community input, fiscal analysis, and ethical considerations, while remaining willing to update my position when stronger evidence becomes available.”

KEYWORDS: Evidence, Expertise, Accountability

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I would refer to scientists when policy decisions require evaluating evidence and risk to assess potential impacts on human health and the environment.”

KEYWORDS: evidence-based, independent, peer-reviewed, transparent

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“Anything around health or the environment is a must. Scientists give us the facts that can be used to make legislation. Social science would also be one that I would lean heavily on for knowledge. In the end, I can look up the papers and reports, but oftentimes an expert will understand the meaning behind the numbers better than I can.”

KEYWORDS: Experts, Knowledge, Facts

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“Boni fide scientific research is essentail to progress. Trusted advisors.”

KEYWORDS: trust, advisors, progress

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I would rely on scientists and other subject mattered experts whenever legislation involves technical or scientific issues. This includes public health, environmental policy, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, emerging technologies, cyber security and National security. I would review the best available scientific evidence, consider differing expert viewpoints when appropriate and evaluate the likely benefits, risk and unintended consequences of a proposal. Scientific expertise should inform policy decisions, while elected officials remain responsible for balancing scientific evidence with constitutional principles, economic impacts, ethical considerations and the needs and values of the people they represent.”

KEYWORDS: Science Informed Policymaking

Q1 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

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“Science helps to prove or dispute applications for quality of life for all living organisms, including humans.”

KEYWORDS: Science is necessary for theory into facts, and practice.

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I would rely upon input from different scientific bodies and individuals to ground my decisions in consensus. I understand the scientific method and engineering principles to a great degree, so I believe I can make solid decisions in policy and know when and who to ask about specific issues.”

KEYWORDS: N/A

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“As someone with a Computer Science degree, I believe policy should be guided by evidence. I consult subject matter experts to evaluate data, understand the impacts of proposed legislation, and make informed decisions that best serve the public.”

KEYWORDS: Evidence based policymaking, Data driven decisions, Technology

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“As a scientist, I am all too aware of the failure to consult experts on public policy. We should be consulting researchers in their area of expertise for any policy, including social scientists and economists to get the consensus of what the effects of our policies would be.”

KEYWORDS: Scientific Consensus Expertise

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“Growing up on a farm taught me to respect the land, water, and the importance of facts. I believe scientists and experts should help guide policy decisions, especially when it comes to protecting our environment, public health, and communities. I will listen to experts, but I will also do my own research because I believe it is important to ask questions, verify information, and make sure decisions are based on the truth and the best interests of the people I serve.”

KEYWORDS: Science should be guided

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“When it involves environmental policies.”

KEYWORDS: No because there’s always new info and stufies being found and certain scientists are bought out by the Epstein class.

Q1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?

“I’m very good at science. I admire certain scientists who have done more to progress the field than those who simply obtained a doctorate by writing an academic journal about something inconclusive that they needed to make seem significant, worsening the problem of distrust in science. I keep those real and good scientists in mind always and for everything, even if it’s just my starbucks order.”

KEYWORDS: Healthcare reform starts with reform and higher standards in academia.