Dear Neighbor,
Greetings from the Minnesota House of Representatives! I hope you’re as eager as I am for spring’s arrival—new leaves, green grass, and the chance to take my boys fishing in Minnesota’s beautiful weather can’t come soon enough.
Before diving into state updates, I want to address the recent wave of attacks on Tesla, a great American car company. Over the past few weeks, reports have surfaced of violent incidents targeting Tesla facilities and vehicles nationwide, including arson, vandalism, and the deployment of fire-starting devices. Closer to home, a Tesla was “keyed” in Bloomington on March 28, 2025. These acts coincide with Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team working to cut waste, fraud, and abuse in federal spending—a mission I strongly support. Some see this as a reaction from those opposed to fiscal accountability. For more insight, I recommend watching the DOGE team’s recent interview with Bret Baier on Fox News.
Minnesota Miners Relief Act
This past week, we learned of the heartbreaking layoffs of over 600 miners from HibTac and Minorca mines. Our mining industry is the backbone of the Iron Range, and these miners, along with their families, deserve our full support during this challenging time. On Wednesday, my colleagues and I were joined by miners and union representatives for a press conference where we discussed our efforts to assist those affected.
We have introduced the Minnesota Miners Relief Act, a critical step in providing immediate relief through an extension of unemployment benefits for workers impacted by the mine closures. This extension will ensure that families have the support they need as they navigate these uncertain times. In addition to addressing immediate needs, I am committed to modernizing our state’s mining regulations. This includes updating the sulfate standard and clarifying rules for reactive mine waste—both necessary steps to reduce delays and attract new investment to the industry.
I firmly believe that this legislation will help secure good-paying jobs, strengthen our local communities, and ensure a responsible, sustainable future for mining in Minnesota for years to come. Our beloved Cuyuna Range understands the devastation of losing mining in our community. We won’t let the same fate befall our neighbors to the north.
Tackling Rampant Fraud
Despite years of warning signs, Governor Walz has yet to hold anyone accountable for over $600 million in waste, fraud, and abuse under his administration—most notably in programs like Feeding Our Future, Medicaid, and the Child Care Assistance Program. While on his nationwide town hall tour (jokingly called his “I Told You So Tour”), he’s criticized Musk and DOGE, diverting focus from Minnesota’s challenges. Here at home, with a 67-67 split in the House, Republicans are pushing forward. My “Mandatory Fraud Reporting” bill, requiring state employees to report fraud in agencies, is gaining bipartisan support. I’m optimistic it will reach the Governor’s desk, ensuring greater transparency for taxpayers.
Budget Priorities
House Republicans are finalizing budget targets that propose the largest spending cut in state history—a nearly $4 billion reduction from the 2024-25 budget and $1.2 billion below the 2026-27 base. We’re rejecting tax hikes and leveraging selective cuts proposed by the Governor and Senate to rein in spending. By contrast, the Governor’s plan grows government, adding full-time staff to an already bloated bureaucracy, the state’s largest employer—while cutting funds for nursing homes and non-public education. With a $6 billion deficit looming, I’ll urge our caucus to prioritize fiscal responsibility with your tax dollars and keep us moving in the direction of cutting government spending and reducing the size of government.
Public Employee Unrest
Minnesota’s state workforce, the largest employer in our state, is facing growing tension. In March 2025, AFSCME Council 5, representing over 43,000 public workers, threatened to strike over Governor Walz’s push for a 50% in-office work mandate. Union members argue this ignores their needs after years of service, while others see it as resistance to accountability in a bureaucracy needing reform. With a $6 billion deficit looming, we must balance fair treatment for workers with fiscal responsibility. I’ll advocate for policies that respect our public employees while ensuring taxpayer dollars fund services, not standoffs. Expect this issue to heat up as budget talks progress.
I’m committed to working hard for our district. As always, I welcome your input and stand ready to assist with any issues that matter to you. I look forward to seeing you around the district soon—until then, enjoy the spring ahead!
Sincerely,
Ben