DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in the candidates responses are the sole views of their own. They do not reflect the opinions or views of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. The publication of the candidates statements therein do not imply the expression of any endorsement whatsoever by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members.
District 25
Liz Boldon (I) (DFL)
Why are you running for State Senate, and how does your experience qualify you for the position?
I’m running for State Senate because Minnesotans deserve leaders who stay focused on people rather than politics. After more than twenty years as a nurse, I see every day how policy shapes people’s lives — whether families can access healthcare, afford basic needs, or find stability during crisis. That experience taught me to listen, act decisively, and advocate for those too often overlooked.
My work in the Legislature has reinforced why this moment matters. Families across Minnesota are feeling pressure from rising costs, threats to essential services, and growing instability at the federal level. I’m running to protect our rights and the environment, strengthen public education, support working families, and ensure healthcare remains accessible and affordable.
I’m qualified for this role because I bring a practical, grounded perspective shaped by decades of caring for patients and working alongside neighbors to solve problems. I know how to navigate crisis, build coalitions, and deliver results. My commitment is simple: to make life better for the people I serve and to ensure every Minnesotan has the stability, freedom, and opportunity to thrive.
What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for the legislature?
My top priorities looking into 2027 are strengthening healthcare and making life more affordable for Minnesota families. Healthcare is the foundation of stability, and too many people are struggling to get the care they need when they need it. As a nurse, I’ve seen how gaps in access, rising costs, and insurance company barriers directly affect patients. I’m committed to expanding affordable care, protecting reproductive freedom, improving mental health care, and ensuring that no one is forced to choose between their health and their financial security.
Affordability is the other major pressure point for families across our district. When the cost of housing, childcare, groceries, and basic necessities keeps climbing, people lose the stability they need to thrive. I’m focused on practical policies that reduce everyday costs, strengthen the workforce, and support families so they can build a secure future.
These priorities are connected: when healthcare is unaffordable, everything else becomes harder. I’m running to deliver solutions that make life more stable, more affordable, and healthier for every Minnesotan.
What can the state legislature do to improve Minnesota's business climate and make the state more competitive for business and job growth?
Minnesota has long been home to many successful businesses and consistently earns recognition on lists of the best states for business. We can continue to strengthen our business climate by investing in the core supports that help employers grow and help workers stay in the workforce. One of the most important steps is expanding access to affordable childcare. When parents can’t find or afford reliable care, businesses lose workers and productivity drops. Stabilizing childcare providers, supporting the childcare workforce, and increasing availability across the state would immediately improve workforce participation.
The legislature can also boost competitiveness by strengthening the talent pipeline. That means investing in career and technical education, apprenticeships, and partnerships between employers and schools so students can move directly into high‑demand fields. Reliable transportation, workforce housing, and modern infrastructure also make it easier for businesses to recruit and retain employees.
Finally, Minnesota can support small businesses and entrepreneurs by improving access to capital, expanding broadband, and fostering innovation hubs across the state. These steps help new businesses launch and help existing businesses grow.
A strong business climate comes from a reliable workforce, modern infrastructure, and support for innovation - all areas where the legislature can make a meaningful impact.
John Howie (R)
Why are you running for State Senate, and how does your experience qualify you for the position?
Accountability and Fraud: I am deeply concerned about fraud in our state and federal governments. We need greater accountability, and when individuals commit these offenses, they must be held accountable to deter future wrongdoing.
What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for the legislature?
Government Efficiency: We need a return to common sense in our legislature. Government should be run more like a business, as it is not the solution to every societal problem.
What can the state legislature do to improve Minnesota's business climate and make the state more competitive for business and job growth?
Job Growth and Economy: The best way to encourage job growth is to reduce unnecessary regulations and lower taxes, allowing businesses to thrive. Historically, when the government steps out of the way of business, economic growth accelerates significantly.