After my career in medical science took me far and wide, my roots in Minnesota called me back home.
I have a deep connection to the state. My father’s parents were farmers in southern Minnesota, and my grandfather was active in the DFL at the state and local level. My family created the Donahue nature conservancy near the farm.
I still have a strong connection to this land. I attended Carleton College – where Paul Wellstone was my professor – and the “U” for a PhD.
As I travelled for work, I began to see how well-run states prospered by embracing fiscal responsibility, equality of opportunity and diverse voices.
Since making Highland my home for the last 6 years, I have seen how Minnesota government has become a “one voice” state, with alarming results.
Minnesota is slipping in business “friendliness”, GDP growth and education scores.
Our cost of living has skyrocketed, fueled by rising St Paul sales and property taxes.
As a proud Republican, I want to turn these things around – especially for seniors and my young nephews and godchildren.