Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This summer was a busy and rewarding season of connecting with people across the district and beyond. I wanted to send this update to give a look into just some of things that were happening!
Shortly after session ended, I had the honor of attending a RAMS meeting to provide a legislative update. It was great to see everyone again and share some of the work we were able to accomplish this year. Thank you to all who were in attendance.
Later in June, I attended a legislative breakfast at the Hibbing Chamber, where I shared a recap of the 2025 session and had the chance to hear directly from local business leaders about the issues that matter most to our communities. It was great to be there alongside a few other legislators.
That same week, I met with the Builders Association of Minnesota’s Board of Directors to discuss the impacts of new legislation on the building industry, and I also provided a session recap to the Grand Rapids Chamber, highlighting key outcomes from session and listening to local perspectives.
In July, I had the honor of serving as a panel speaker at the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities conference. It was a great opportunity to talk about the work we accomplished this session and the priorities that will guide us moving forward. That evening, I was humbled to receive their Legislator of Distinction award for the 2025 session, an honor that reflects the hard work of so many in our communities and the partnerships that make progress possible.
August was equally full of meaningful events. I spoke with seniors at the Itasca County Fair, where I enjoyed listening to their stories and concerns, and sharing updates from the legislature.
I toured the brand-new Nashwauk-Keewatin PreK-12 school, seeing firsthand the investments being made in education for our kids.
Most recently, I traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, to participate in the BILLD Leaders Roundtable as part of the National Conference of State Legislatures, representing Speaker Demuth, and engaging with other state leaders on best practices and policy solutions.
Another highlight of the summer was the opportunity to meet with the Timber Producers Association. We had a productive discussion about the challenges facing the industry, including workforce needs, transportation issues, and the importance of keeping our natural resources managed in a sustainable way. Their work is a vital part of our region’s economy, and I appreciated the chance to hear their perspectives firsthand.
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I also toured the Mesabi Metallics facility with Governor Walz to see the progress being made on the site and to talk about what the future of mining could mean for the Iron Range. The visit was a reminder of how critical mining is to both our local communities and the state as a whole, and it underscored the importance of continuing to work together to ensure this project moves forward responsibly and successfully.
It was a privilege to stay connected with so many people and organizations this summer. It has been a beautiful summer, filled with collaboration, community, and a chance to recharge. In the coming weeks, I wish all students and parents a smooth and successful upcoming school year, and I look forward to continuing to work for our communities.
As we enter fall, I hope everyone had an amazing summer and looks forward to the fall ahead. The fall colors and prime hunting and fishing are right around the corner!
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