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JM




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"Recently, Senator Bruce Anderson and I had the pleasure of meeting with some amazing kids from our district—reminding me every day why this work matters."

Legislative Update

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Minnesota’s heart beats loudest in the little things—the county fairs, historic landmarks, family farms, and the simple joy of a community coming together. That’s exactly why I’m proud to share some good news from St. Paul: we just passed the 2025 Legacy Finance budget, and it’s one that truly honors Minnesota’s spirit.

As your Co-Chair of the Legacy Committee in my first year, I rolled up my sleeves to make sure this budget isn’t just a pile of paper with numbers—but a real investment in the things that make our state unique. We cut through the red tape, trimmed the fat, and focused Legacy funds where they matter most: local communities, grassroots efforts, and the traditions we all hold dear.

Here’s the scoop on what we accomplished:


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*Merit over magic tricks:* We prioritized competitive, merit-based grants instead of earmarking dollars for pet projects. That means funding goes to projects that truly serve Minnesotans—not just whoever shouts loudest.


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*Accountability with teeth:* Arts and cultural groups now have to show the receipts—IRS 990 forms, no funny business with capital construction costs. Transparency isn’t optional; it’s required.


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*Putting local first:* We gave Minnesota Public Radio a 50% budget cut (yeah, you read that right) to refocus funds on *local artists, storytellers, and festivals* that light up communities from Delano to Duluth.


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*Honoring our roots:* $1.5 million for county fairs and FFA programs means investing in the next generation of leaders—and keeping alive the traditions that make Minnesota feel like home.


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*Protecting our playground:* Clean water, wildlife habitat, parks, and trails—all the outdoor goodies that keep Minnesotans happy and healthy.

These wins might not make the evening news, but they make a world of difference in small towns and neighborhoods where people care about history, nature, and their neighbors.

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Restoring Common Sense & Fiscal Responsibility

This year’s budget fight wasn’t just about Legacy dollars. After two years of one-party rule that spent a historic $18 billion surplus, pushed taxes up by $10 billion, and left Minnesota on the edge of a $6 billion shortfall, House Republicans rolled up their sleeves and got to work.

During a one-day special session, we:


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Eliminated free health care for illegal immigrants—because taxpayer-funded services should go to people who play by the rules.


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Delivered the largest spending cut in state history—$5 billion less than the previous budget, including a $2 billion cut just during the special session.


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Blocked huge tax hikes that would have hit Minnesota families hard—like a new fifth-tier income tax bracket and expansions to the sales tax.


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Stopped the DFL’s unrealistic energy policies from moving forward, protecting you from skyrocketing energy bills and unreliable power.

Minnesota is back on a more sustainable, responsible path—and I’m proud we stood firm even with the House split right down the middle.

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From My House to Yours

Serving as your representative is truly a privilege—one that I carry with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude. The stories, traditions, and values we protect aren’t just words on paper; they’re the foundation of our communities and the legacy we pass on to our children. This work is personal to me, and I promise to always listen and stand up for what matters most to you.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out—whether you have ideas to share, concerns to voice, or simply want to connect. My door is always open, and you’re more than welcome to call or visit me at my photography studio in district. To make sure I’m available, please contact my legislative assistant ([email protected]) first to schedule a visit or just to say hello. And if you’d prefer to meet somewhere in the district, just let me know—I’m happy to connect wherever is most convenient for you!

Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me. Together, we’ll keep Minnesota’s heart and heritage strong.

Sincerely,

Representative Joe McDonald

Minnesota House of Representatives, District 29A






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State Rep. Joe McDonald
241 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd St. Paul, MN 55155
[email protected]
(651) 296-4336







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