As the cost of living crisis worsens, we need leaders who will fight for the essential services and programs including SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid. Unfortunately, we have a federal administration that cares more about lining the pockets of the ultra-wealthy while working families in our community struggle to get by.

Shortly after the 2024 presidential election, I along with over a dozen Minnesota legislators came together to analyze how our state government can respond to threats from the federal government and protect the essential services and programs our communities rely on. 

With the passage of H.R. 1 (the “Big Beautiful Bill”) in early July and the longest federal shutdown in US history taking place this fall, cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, and more disruptions became reality. So we got to work. 

I serve on the Subcommittee on the Federal Impact on Minnesotans and Economic Stability Committee where we hear testimony from those directly impacted by the reckless federal cuts and decisions from our food shelf operators to our rural health care professionals to federal workers working without pay during the shutdown. By hearing directly from impacted community members, we can develop the policy solutions we need to counteract negative federal actions. 

In addition to the work of this committee, I’m proud to:

Co-author the Medicaid, Not Millionaires Act which will raise taxes on millionaires at the level necessary to offset any cuts to Medicaid in Minnesota

Introduce legislation to fully fund SNAP in Minnesota

Advance legislation to repeal tax breaks for large, wealthy corporations and put money back in the pockets of working Minnesotans

I know that there is more work to do. Essential programs and services ensure seniors in our district with fixed incomes can live with dignity, make healthcare for people with disabilities more affordable, and allow families experiencing food insecurity to access the healthy, nutritious foods they need. We need steadfast leadership that will stand up for our residents and fight to preserve the programs and services we know keep people safe and supported.