Voters in Minnesota's Senate District 6 will elect a new state senator in April to fill the vacancy caused by Justin Eichorn's resignation.
Keri Heintzeman won the Republican primary on April 15. She'll face DFLer Denise Slipy in the special election April 29.
Senate District 6 covers parts of Crow Wing, Cass and Itasca counties and includes the cities of Brainerd, Baxter and Grand Rapids.
Early voting for the special election begins April 23 and ends April 28.
Polling places will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. You can find your polling place here.
Voters can request an absentee ballot from the Secretary of State's Office. Voters in mail-only precincts will have a ballot mailed to them.
Due to the short timeline, the Secretary of State's Office recommends dropping off your ballot at your county's in-person location: Cass County Auditor-Treasurer's Department in Walker, Crow Wing County Historic Courthouse in Brainerd or Itasca County Courthouse in Grand Rapids.
Not sure where to vote on Election Day? Use the Secretary of State Office's Polling Place Finder.
Keri Heintzeman participated in a forum with the other Republican candidates ahead of the primary.
WDIO spoke with Denise Slipy, Angel Zierden, Steve Cotariu, Heintzeman, Jennifer Carnahan, John Howe and Josh Gazelka. You can find those interviews here, here and here.
Know of more forums, guides or other types of information? Email news@kaxe.org.
Candidate responses for KAXE's Election Guide have not been edited and are published as submitted.
As necessary, our news team added contextual information clearly marked with an "editor's note" and in italics, though responses have not been uniformly fact-checked. We have made every effort to make note of inaccuracies if they come to our attention.
Please contact our news team at news@kaxe.org with questions or comments or to report any errors.
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| Denise Slipy |
Keri Heintzeman
Age on Election Day: 44
City/Township of residence: Nisswa - Lake Edward Twp
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Self-employed small business owner
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
For more than a decade, I have been an advocate on critical issues at the Capitol with respected organizations like Minnesota Concerned Citizens for Life, the NRA, and Minnesotans for Health & Parental Rights. I've fought for your rights alongside legislators and I'm running to put that experience to work.
As Trump's MNCD8 District Director in 2024, I had the privilege of talking with constituents across the district. They want a Strong Economy, Fiscal Responsibility, their Parental Rights protected an education system that focuses on the needs of their children not a work agenda from St Paul.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
The first responsibility of our next state Senator is to represent the concerns of the people in Senate District 6 and be their voice in St. Paul. We need a Senator that will author and support legislation that promotes the well being of our laborers, reduce overburdensome government regulation for our job creators, and protects family and our way of life.
Why are you running for office?
I'm running for office because I am the most experienced and qualified candidate that shares and loves the conservative values of this district. I understand and have fought to protect our way of life. I've lived in Northern MN for over 30 years and I've been committed to this effort advocating for conservative causes for almost two decades. I'm well prepared to defend your second amendment rights, rebuild our economy, and oppose the woke leftist agenda in our schools.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
1. I’ll cut out wasteful spending by demanding performance based accountability from state agencies for every program and every tax dollar spent.
2. I’ll eliminate fraud by demanding strict oversight on state-funded organizations, canceling funds lacking accountability, and claw back unspent funds.
3. I’ll focus on eliminating state mandates, especially woke policies so districts can focus tax dollars and time on helping kids learn, and I’d institute performance pay for teachers who get results so we get the best teachers possible.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
The first opportunity to address housing is to support workers, create jobs and rebuild our economy. Minnesota is, unfortunately, the highest amongst all states in corporate taxes and has a dismal record of slow walking investment in our region with agencies that are far behind surrounding states with very similarly stringent regulation. I must also mention that state workforce housing resources seem to inexplicably find their way around us, I will work to address that problem as well.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
This question has been one that has tended to be divisive. I will work to end that by pointing out that over thousands of years the climate has changed and will continue to change. Our elected leaders must work together and implement proven strategies and technology to build resilient infrastructure and support policies that can year after year withstand our challenging climate. We must recognize that, over recorded history, we have had to adjust as weather patterns have shifted both warmer and colder. Hunting seasons and fishing rules may need shifting, the trees that DNR plants during reforestation must be carefully considered, and energy needs might also need to be addressed.
Editor's note: According to the vast majority of peer-reviewed studies, science organizations and climate scientists, climate change largely caused by human emissions has contributed to global warming and extreme weather events.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
About 12 years ago Metro politicians passed laws creating a path for new regulation that, over time, killed the in home child care model. I will introduce legislation to fix this and fight for working parents.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
This is an issue that's near and dear to my heart as I have family members who are struggling to pay their bills and get care in this region. Unfortunately, there are those that continue to push a one-size-fits-all government approach to health care. I will not be supporting such efforts. Government healthcare and more rules always result in less access and crushing bureaucracy that leads to a reduced access. The answer is more choices, competition, and transparency. I know that's not something that the healthcare systems necessarily like, but if we're going to talk about affordability and quality it has to be addressed.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
While campaigning, I've met voters who, upon learning I'm a Republican, dismiss me outright, saying, "Not my party" or "Wrong party." To them, I suggest keeping my literature and noting my phone number on the back. If elected, I’d be glad to assist all constituents with their concerns. This response has resonated with those feeling overlooked. We’re all free to hold our views, but we should still be able to engage in constructive dialogue.
Denise Slipy
Age on Election Day: 51
City/Township of residence: Breezy Point
Party: DFL
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Environmental Health and Safety Professional
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
I have focused on keeping my community safe for 30 years. I am an Environment Health & Safety Professional. I've served as a volunteer firefighter, I am an OSHA Outreach Instructor, I teach first aid / CPR / AED, and I am a Reserve Police Officer, and First Responder for Northern Crow Wing County. I am an advocate to be a voice for the underrepresented and underserved. There are a lot of constituents in the 6th Senate District that don't feel heard or represented.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
It is the obligation of an elected official to be the voice of the people of their community, not a political party. The bills that are passed directly affect the people in my community. I plan to hold listening sessions with my constituents, so I can advocate on their behalf. The legislation I support should be a reflection of my constituency.
Why are you running for office?
I am running to bring this seat back to the working people of this District. I was born into a working family and I grew up on a farm. I want to bring common sense and collaboration to the Senate. I will fight for them, because I am one of them.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
Economic issues are on the forefront of everyone’s minds in this district, from small businesses to our school teachers. Prices keep going up faster than our wages and everyone is struggling. Meanwhile local governments, hit with the same increased cost of goods are forced to levy higher taxes to support both mandated and necessary services to our community. Everything comes back to working people struggling to provide for their families and live the American dream of home ownership and a 40 hour work week. I’m going to fight for our district and the people who live here. I will make sure St. Paul gives us the resources we need to thrive without assuming that regulation is the answer to every problem.
As a new member of the Senate, I will listen to the people I serve. I intend to involve stakeholders in our communities to come together and problem solve. Through common sense collective efforts, we can grow jobs in our area and provide services to our communities. As a moderate, I fully intend to work with other legislators, regardless of party affiliation, to accomplish the priorities of people.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
I’ve talked to people from all sides of this issue - landlords, renters, and homeowners and there’s no doubt that we have serious issues that need common sense leadership to help solve them. I believe that tax loopholes need to be closed. Short term rentals (VRBO’s, Airbnb, etc.) have contributed to this issue, because oftentimes they don’t contribute the tax revenue that communities would receive from homesteads. The continuing increase in taxes has made it nearly impossible for Seniors to stay in their homes, and we don’t have the affordable and safe housing amenities available to them. We can facilitate opportunities for general contractors by helping to expedite funding and permitting, and reducing the red tape by streamlining the process to work with local HRA’s and funding organizations. If we can improve the process to build affordable housing, then more will be available in our communities. We also need to support landlords, so the cost of renting isn’t detrimental to their business. Oftentimes rental properties are not properly maintained or cared for by the renter and this deters having more landlords willing to provide affordable housing. A lack of good paying jobs directly impacts a renter or homeowner from being able to afford their rent or mortgage payment.
Two policy ideas: provide small grants and/or technical assistance to cities to review existing zoning codes and consider revisions to address unintentional barriers to affordable housing, and/or create an inventory of tax forfeited land which could be made available for $1 to affordable housing developers conditioned on passing the savings along to the purchaser. This second idea not only creates affordable housing, but also returns property to the tax rolls of local units of government.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
We need to support existing programs (like MnCIFA – the state’s “green bank”) as well as programs and legislation that will bring economically sustainable renewable energy solutions to our community. This will provide opportunities for good union jobs, make our communities more sustainable, provide reduced utility costs for businesses and families, and protect our environment. These opportunities exist, but they will only be made available to our community if we show up to the table and advocate for it.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
The childcare shortage is acute nationwide, but especially in rural areas where we lack the density of children to support centers (which typically require around 80 kids to cash flow). In addition, smaller employers (common in most rural communities) typically don’t provide childcare as a benefit, leaving the burden to young families. I’ve talked to families and experts across our region and I’ve seen the gap in affordable child care and the toll it’s taking on families and child care providers. I’m not sure if there’s anything more concerning to young families, than the wellbeing of their children. We need to make sure families can go to work to support their families with a good income and safe reliable childcare.
This is an issue that the free market cannot correct without intervention. I would love to explore incentives that reward collaboration and innovation without penalizing the women that have long sustained the childcare sector. Examples could include: Tax incentives for businesses that provide free or below market facilities to childcare providers; Establishment of a health care cooperative for childcare providers, like that which the legislature established for farmers. If childcare providers are essential workers then perhaps the public should help underwrite health care for them! A related option would be to consider licensed childcare providers members of the educational community, and cover them within the same health and benefit system that supports our teachers. We already have programs that forgive student debt for health care professionals that serve in rural areas; we could this strategy to encourage young providers to establish businesses in our rural areas.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
I strongly believe that it’s our obligation to ensure our senior population is healthy, safe, and well cared for. It’s important that we work with community partners, non-government organizations, and service organizations that are trying to meet the needs of our seniors. We need to understand which services are delivered well and where the gap in care and services exist, so we can address them with common sense solutions. My mother and father-in-law currently live with us, because my wife and I strongly believe in making sure they live the final years of their lives happy, healthy, and safely. For many families, end of life care weighs heavily on their minds and the cost of assisted living or long term care is unaffordable or undesirable. I’ve seen families who have worked and saved their entire lives, and had their life savings completely drained by a major health event or inability to physically provide direct care to a loved one. We should be advocates of making senior care accessible and affordable for our families.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
This is a really important issue for me. Our Representatives (current House and former Senate) have abandoned the constituency that they think did not vote for them. I’ve heard complaints from people in our community that have been told by their sitting Representative to “Go talk to the DFL”, they’ve been laughed at and hung up on when they call their Representative with a concern. This is absolutely unacceptable, especially when there is turmoil throughout all levels of government, and it’s hard to feel safe - much less heard. I will listen to everyone. I believe in people over party. I want to listen, actively work to understand concerns, and work with our community leaders and legislators to find solutions to the issues we face together. At the end of the day, we all need food on the table, a safe and clean environment to live in, and a supportive community to live, work, and play in. Our livelihood isn’t dictated or defined by an “R” or a “D” behind our names - we have more in common than we disagree on, and I truly believe that we all do better, when we all do better (as stated by our former Senator Paul Wellstone). I intend to lead with decency, common sense, and a true dedication to partnership and collaboration.
The candidates below did not advance beyond the primary:
Jennifer Carnahan
Age on Election Day: 48
City/Township of residence: Nisswa
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Small Business Owner. I own two retail stores in Downtown Nisswa.
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
With 30 years of leadership experience, I’ve delivered results in business and politics. As a Fortune 500 marketing leader with companies like General Mills, McDonald's Corporation and Ecolab, I managed the marketing product lines and business units in excess of $300 million a year in revenues. In 2014 I founded my first small business, Primrose Park, a women's retail store and have since expanded my retail footprint with the acquisition of an additional business. I understand firsthand the challenges facing entrepreneurs and our area's families due to the impact over burdensome government regulations, an increase in taxes and unnecessary bureaucracy. As the former Chairwoman of the MN GOP, I eliminated $1 million in debt, cut expenses by 30% and rebuilt a fledgling organization into a national powerhouse during my tenure (2017-2021). Now, as Nisswa’s Mayor, I’m focused on fiscal responsibility, keeping taxes low, and ensuring efficient local government. My proven record of business leadership, financial stewardship, and commitment to our communities makes me the right choice to represent Senate District 6 and fight for the people of Minnesota.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
As a State Senator, my role is to represent the people of Senate District 6 and advocate for policies that promote fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and government accountability. Responsibilities include drafting and voting on legislation, working to lower taxes and reduce wasteful spending, and ensuring our communities have the resources they need. I will fight for policies that support small businesses, protect property rights, and keep Minnesota a great place to live and work. Most importantly, I will listen to my constituents, stand up for our conservative values, and be a strong voice for the people of our district.
Why are you running for office?
I’m running to bring conservative, results-driven leadership to the Senate. With my experience as a small business owner, former Chairwoman of the MN GOP, and current Mayor of Nisswa, I’m committed to cutting taxes, reducing government spending, and ensuring our communities thrive through smart, responsible policies.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
The top issues facing Minnesota are rising taxes, inflation, and a lack of fiscal responsibility. Many Minnesotans are struggling with the burden of increased property taxes and government spending. I believe we need to focus on lowering taxes, cutting wasteful spending, and creating a more business-friendly environment. Another critical issue is the growing burden of crime and public safety concerns in our communities. As we work to ensure the safety of all Minnesotans, we must support law enforcement and take action against crime. Finally, improving education and job opportunities is vital for Minnesota’s long-term prosperity.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
The government should not be in the business of artificially controlling the housing market. The best way to address affordability is by reducing burdensome regulations, cutting excessive fees, and lowering property taxes to make homeownership more attainable. I will fight against government overreach and push for free-market solutions that encourage responsible development while protecting property rights. By reducing red tape and allowing the private sector to thrive, we can expand housing options without costly government intervention. A strong economy, lower taxes, and fewer regulations will create more opportunities for families to find and afford housing in our communities.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
I will oppose radical climate policies that burden taxpayers, raise energy costs, and hurt businesses. Instead of government mandates and subsidies, I support free-market solutions that encourage innovation and energy independence. Minnesota’s natural resources should be protected through responsible land management and practical conservation efforts—not costly regulations that punish families and job creators.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
The government’s overregulation is a major reason why child care is so expensive and scarce in Northern Minnesota. I will work to cut unnecessary regulations, reduce licensing burdens, and allow more providers to enter the market, increasing competition and lowering costs for families. Instead of more government programs and subsidies that drive up costs and create dependency, we need free-market solutions that empower parents with more choices. I also support tax credits for working families to help make child care more affordable while keeping decision-making in the hands of parents—not bureaucrats.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
Our seniors have worked hard their entire lives, and they deserve dignity, respect, and quality care—not more government red tape and bureaucracy. The problem isn’t a lack of funding—it’s wasteful spending and government interference that drive up costs and limit choices. I will fight to cut regulations that make healthcare more expensive, support free-market solutions that increase competition, and protect seniors from being forced into government-run healthcare schemes. We must empower families and local communities—not bureaucrats—to ensure our elderly receive the care they deserve. I’ll always stand against socialist policies that take away choice and raise costs.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
As a conservative leader, I am committed to upholding the Constitution and ensuring that the principles of limited government, individual liberties, and the rule of law are preserved. Representing Senate District 6 means advocating for policies that promote economic freedom, personal responsibility, and traditional values that benefit all constituents. While I hold steadfast to conservative principles, I recognize the importance of engaging with all community members to understand their concerns and aspirations. By maintaining open lines of communication and focusing on issues that impact our district's prosperity and well-being, I will work to implement solutions that reflect our shared values and enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community.
Steve Cotariu
Party: Republican
KAXE did not receive a response from this candidate.
Josh Gazelka
Age on Election Day: 31
City/Township of residence: Pequot Lakes
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Thrive Agency, Vice President of Client Experience
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
I bring a mix of real-world business experience and policy involvement that prepares me to lead effectively from day one. I’m the Vice President of Client Experience at a national marketing firm, where I help small businesses across the country—including right here in Minnesota—overcome challenges and grow. I’ve owned and operated small businesses myself, so I understand the weight of government overreach, workforce shortages, and rising costs. I’ve worked directly with legislators to push pro-growth, pro-family policies, and I’ve volunteered on numerous Republican campaigns over the years. I know how St. Paul works—and how it needs to change.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
The role of a State Senator is to represent the people of their district at the Minnesota State Capitol. That means listening to constituents, writing and voting on laws, advocating for district needs, and holding government accountable. Senators help shape policy on everything from taxes and education to infrastructure and public safety. For me, this role is about service—being a strong, steady voice for our communities, defending our values, and working to make government work better for the people it’s supposed to serve.
Why are you running for office?
I’m running because I care deeply about the future of our community—and I want my daughters to grow up in a Minnesota where families thrive, small businesses succeed, and common sense still matters. I never planned to run for office, but I couldn’t sit on the sidelines while things kept getting worse. This campaign is about stepping up for the people I love, the community that raised me, and the values that built this state.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
Economic Growth – Minnesota’s economy is being held back by high taxes, overregulation, and burdensome mandates. I’ll work to reduce those barriers so local businesses can grow and working families can afford to stay here. I’ve helped small businesses across the country grow, and I’ll bring that experience to the Senate to help Minnesotans thrive.
Public Safety – I will support our law enforcement officers and push for policies that hold violent criminals accountable. We must restore order and safety to our communities and ensure law enforcement has the resources and support they need.
Parental Rights & Education – Parents should never be sidelined when it comes to their children’s education. I’ll fight for school choice, curriculum transparency, and policies that put families first and keep politics out of the classroom.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
If elected, I’d work to remove the red tape that’s slowing down housing development—especially in rural communities like ours. Permitting delays, excessive regulations, and rising construction costs are driving up prices and limiting availability. We need to make it easier to build starter homes, encourage local investment, and expand workforce housing options near major employers. I’ll also support creative partnerships between private builders and local governments to ensure families, workers, and seniors have access to safe, affordable places to live.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
Minnesotans take pride in our lakes, forests, and clean air—we live here because we love this place. I believe we can be good stewards of our environment without crushing families and businesses under top-down mandates. I support local solutions that empower innovation—like investing in clean water infrastructure, encouraging responsible forestry, and removing red tape that blocks energy innovation. Resiliency means making our communities stronger and more self-sufficient—not more dependent on government control.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
Access to child care is a major challenge for working families across Northern Minnesota. I support easing unnecessary barriers that prevent qualified providers from opening or expanding, especially home-based options. We also need to improve training pathways for child care workers and allow more flexibility for providers to meet demand while maintaining high standards. Supporting affordable, quality care means giving families real choices and helping them thrive in both work and family life.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
Our seniors deserve care that’s affordable, accessible, and respectful of their dignity. I support empowering families with more options—like expanding telemedicine access and allowing providers greater flexibility to meet patient needs. We should also strengthen community-based care solutions that let seniors age in place when possible, close to family and support systems. Government should enable—not block—innovative care models that serve our aging population with compassion and efficiency.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
As a State Senator, my duty is to represent all constituents, regardless of who they voted for. We’re all facing the same challenges—rising costs, access to care, and the pressures on working families. While we may not always agree on the best path forward, I believe we share the same goal: building a better Minnesota for the next generation. I’ll be readily available and make it a priority to listen, because my job isn’t to push an agenda—it’s to serve the people of this community.
John A. Howe
Age on Election Day: 72
City/Township of residence: Wildwood Township in Itasca County
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
I am retired but do some relief work locally.
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
I have served on State and National legislative advisory committees and have testified before related committees. Veterinarians are closely tied to public health and bioterrorism issues. As President of the American Veterinary Medical Association, I met with officials around the world discussing animal disease, public health and emerging threats to our health and safety. I have spoken with members in Congress about issues that affect this area. I have closely followed bills and issues progressing through the Minnesota legislature. I serve on the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine. I have previously served 2 terms on the Minnesota Board of Animal Health.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
As a MInnesota State Senator, I have the responsibility to address the specific concerns and problems associated with District 6. SD 6 is a large district encompassing rural, suburban and urban areas. My role is to serve the constituents in all these areas. Although one of the functions of a legislator is to enact laws, it is important to not overreach and negatively affect the lives and freedoms of individuals, to strenthen the ability to attract industry and businesses and to provide and plan for the future of this specific District and the State.
Why are you running for office?
I have several reasons for running for this office. I am greatly concerned with the ridiculous mandates and standards passed by Walz and the runaway DFL legislature concerning power generation. It is a pie in the sky mentality to push electric companies to abandon fossil fuels entirely. Wind and solar can be a component of an energy plan but in no way can they supply the power generation needed for this area. The closing of the Clay Boswell Plant in Cohasset is a problem. We are entrusting our future to a hope. A hope that there will be advances in technology within the time frame established to maintain our present level of demand plus any added demand due to growth in the area.
Each session bills are presented which could be improved by utilizing the experience and perspective of a veterinarian.There presently are no veterinarians in the House or the Senate.
Finally, representation from different areas of SD 6 is important. Currently, both of the District's House Representatives live in the Brainerd area, There are differing challenges between the northern and southern areas of the District. The best way to address these challenges is with representation from more than one area. There is a difference between visiting an area or living in an area.
Editor's note: Minnesota Power's Boswell Energy Center in Cohasset is not closing. Boswell's two units will cease coal operations in 2030 and 2035, respectively. The company announced in March that it would refuel one of the units to run on natural gas by 2030 and continue to explore biomass fuel opportunities for the facility.
Additionally, the House District 6A and 6B representatives do both live in the Brainerd area, one in Nisswa and one in Merrifield.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
My number one priority is to bring common sense with a touch of reality back to Minnesota. This affects many areas into which the past legislative session strayed. The number one issue is to get a grip on the spending. I have no desire to become California and we are quickly heading that way. A strong dose of financial responsibility will be a start.
The amount of fraud that is being exposed should make every taxpayer's blood boil. MInnesota has a population with a strong work ethic and to see their tax dollars spent in wild spending topped off with fraud is why many are fleeing Minnesota. A solution is to root out the causes, prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law and eliminate opportunities to committ fraud.
There are many other areas in which I have goals. Individual freedom, education versus indoctrination, parental control over their children's education and health care, pro-life issues and many conservative values must be upheld and reintroduced into Minnesota.. The past legislative session actions and the path we are on must be reversed.
Editor's note: Minnesota has experienced a small net outflow of people in the last two decades, according to the Minnesota State Demographic Center. This is part of a regional pattern of net loss, and "current research literature neither supports nor refutes the idea that tax policy is driving overall migration in a state like Minnesota."
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
Instead of adding more and more restrictions and regulation, incentives need to be provided to encourage private investment in the housing market. I am stating this rather simply. If government gets out of the way, investors will see the benefits of investing in housing. More supply drives down the cost of renting and an economy with lower interest rates makes purchasing a home more affordable. Affordability is increased with good paying jobs. We need to attract businesses and RETAIN businesses that provide good paying jobs. This brings me back to the role of government and the economy that is produced by that government.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
Much has been done and much has been spent addressing climate change. While it is not "politically correct" to say, many of the dollars spent have been wasted but in the process have made people feel good. Notice I said many and not all. Despite the numerous articles and statistics about climate change, conflicting evidence exists. The absolute reality is that despite everything that we do in the United States or in SD6, will have an extremely small effect on the climate. The rest of the world-- China, India and other sections of the world-- are not concerned and negate anything we are doing here in this country. Climate Conferences, especially the one in November of 2025 being held in Brazil, are an abomination. They actually are cutting through acres of the Amazon jungle to make a 4 lane highway for the Conference. That does not even consider the number of planes that fly in for the event. I support protecting the environment in common sense and effective ways.
Editor's note: According to the vast majority of peer-reviewed studies, science organizations and climate scientists, climate change largely caused by human emissions has contributed to global warming and extreme weather events.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
The cost of quality day care is a significant problem. I am aware that in many areas the cost of care for one child is almost twice as much as a year of college tuition. I am open to proposals to help in this area. I do not propose a government program to provide child care. I do propose looking at the deductability of total child care expenses from income before taxes with some form of safety net for segments of our population. While Minnesota has the MInnesota Child and Dependent Care Credit, more needs to be done and explored.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
As a person who falls into the category of someone older and concerned about health care issues, I will do my best to strive for care that is affordable and protects our dignity. I have some personal experience in this area.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
I take seriously my responsibility to represent all of my constituents, whether Republican, Democrat, Independent, Libertarian, Grass Roots, other or no affiliation. My door will be open and my intention is to be visible throughout the District for meetings, events and for one on ones. I feel it is good policy to share information about my efforts and challenges through social media, newsletters, press releases and other avenues of communication.
Doug Kern
Age on Election Day: 62
City/Township of residence: Crow Wing Township
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Self Employed
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
I am currently Serving as a Local Elected Official on 5 boards, Have served as Crow Wing County Republican Chair 14+ years in the past.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
Bringing Accountability, Integrity, Transparency to State Government, while serving the needs of Senate District 6. It may not sound like much-but to the Constituents, it's everything.
Why are you running for office?
Lack of Accountability &Transparency concerning the use of Taxpayer Dollars. To go from a $18+ Billion "Surplus" - to a $6 Billion "Deficit" in 2 years needs to examined closer as to the why. "Surplus" is the word used for you being overtaxed, it should have gone back to you the Taxpayer. Which could have been used as a taxpayer sees fit.
Having attended 3 different Government meeting in less than 2 weeks, we are told your property taxes will be going up at a minimum of 12%, basically all taxes will see a increase under the Walz Administration with the help of Senate Democrats.
We will be having our Board of Equalization in a few weeks, every year we hear from property owners who are retired, that need to take on a part time job to pay taxes. This shouldn't be for our Seniors on fixed incomes-government should serve them, not milk them.
To bring positive & effective change in Minnesota is my goal.
To bring that change, a seat at the table is needed.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
We see the "Minnesota Miners Relief Act" being presented in the House-I would love to carry it in the Senate. The Minnesota Budget needs to be reigned in, at least to pre-covid levels. Again, $18 Billion excess taxpayer money used to bloat Government programs in Minnesota. $6 Billion Deficit required to be collected from taxpayers. A Minnesota DOGE would be awesome, to audit programs. "Feeding Our Children" Millions debacle would have never happened if there was accountability & transparency.
To see Walz & Minnesota Schools comply with President Trumps Executive Order to protect our Women, Daughters, & Granddaughters in Sports. In ISD #181 we will loose $6 Million in Federal Funds by not complying. That money needed to keep the schools running will have to come from somewhere-the taxpayer. There are 331 School Districts, 233 Colleges & Universities in Minnesota, will they all not protect Women by defining them? Title 9 was designed to protect Women. Democrat leadership won't define a Woman, which means they do not need to protect them.
Editor's note: The Brainerd School District received $6 million in federal funding in the 2023-24 school year, 6.2% of its revenue. The Trump administration has threatened to withhold federal funding from districts and states that do not comply with its executive orders. It is unclear exactly what this may mean for districts.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
As a Landlord, I completely understand. as the cost of services & taxes increase so do rents. Reducing Government regulations would be a good start to help build affordable housing. Also working with the many programs designed to help housing-shoring up these & examining how to come along not just Government programs such as HUD or LSS.
But also come alongside other private organizations like our Bridges of Hope or Salvation Army which do a tremendous work in Mid Minnesota.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
Climate Change is always in flux, I look at the mini Ice Age of the 1800's where the seasons were not long enough for people to grow crops-many died. I do believe we are stewards of the creation God gave us. To use our resources wisely & do the research to find innovative ideas to use those same resources. Thinking outside the box will be the key.
Editor's note: According to the vast majority of peer-reviewed studies, science organizations and climate scientists, climate change largely caused by human emissions has contributed to global warming and extreme weather events.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
The shortage came when Daycare Homes became Government Daycare Homes. With all the regulations you would find at a large facilities. Government regulations around 2010 created the problem. Re-examining Home Daycare & Government intrusiveness would be a good place to start.
Many Home Daycares had a choice of removing their Crucifixes, religious symbols & scriptures or being fined & put out of business-many closed. Minnesota's Government created the problem, re-examine what was created.
Editor's note: KAXE could not identify any part of child care licensing state statute that prohibits the display of religious symbols in family child care facilities.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
Years ago Hillary Clinton came to Minnesota to examine our exemplary health care system, Minnesota Care. It was to be looked at as a pattern & reproduced everywhere-we were the "Gold Standard" in Healthcare. Then came Obama Care, it has not been affordable since. In order to solve a problem, we need to examine where we came from. That is where ingenuity will proceed from. Our Seniors are precious & we need to do everything possible to create a system that does not absorb everything they worked for in life, but it will start with looking back to see how to move forward.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
I believe in American Exceptionalism.
I did not Vote for President Obama, and did not agree with most of his policies. But the day he was inaugurated, It was a proud day in my American History. It showed that we are not a racist nation & any American regardless of Race, Sex, Color, or Creed can become the Leader of the Free World, we call America.
People that voted for Obama or Walz, I will look across the table & have discussions, not arguments. We may not agree, but I live by this: Mean what you say-Say what you mean-& Don't be mean when you say it, because you are my neighbor, not my enemy.
Just a FYI Having 8 Sisters:
It will be a proud day for me when we have the First Woman President as well--Not sure if it will be for Democrats though--as they won't define a Woman=;)
I always wonder if her name will be Vickie.
Angel Zierden
Age on Election Day: 38
City/Township of residence: Breezy Point
Party: Republican
Where are you currently employed, and what is your role?
Real Estate Developer- Self Employed
Please share any prior experience that you believe qualifies you for office.
I have over 10 years experience working on bipartisan policy, building relationships across aisles, working on campaigns and elected as a state delegate. I founded a tech start-up as a single mom, built small businesses from the ground up, served as Mayor of Breezy Point, raised a multi-million dollar housing fund and currently serve on non-profit boards. All of this experience combined puts me in the best position to serve District 6.
Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.
Support and pass legislation that positively impacts our District and our state. We have many needs that need to be addressed including taxes, housing, mental health, rising healthcare costs, access to healthcare, education, mining, and supporting small business.
Why are you running for office?
I already work with legislators on both sides of the aisle, so I would leverage my current relationships to get things done. There is a trust factor that has already been established, which makes achieving our goals more attainable. I have experience as an elected official, so I understand the sacrifice of making the hard decisions.
What are your priorities, if elected? Please describe specific policy goals and solutions to issues you find important.
Taxes- comprehensive tax reform, which includes broadening income base, permanent revenue streams, lowering tax rates and eliminating waste and fraud.
Housing- permitting reform, incentivize and streamline development, modify current housing program requirements for rural Minnesota, and work alongside counties and municipalities to reduce local restrictions.
Healthcare- prioritize prevention care, greater access to healthcare in rural MN, supporting Direct Primary Care, lower prescription drug prices, and support outcome based insurance treatments.
Other priorities include education, mining, childcare, and mental healthcare.
Across the region, renters and owners are struggling to find or afford housing. If elected, what would you do to address the issues of availability and affordability for your constituents?
I just had a bill drafted that would increase incentives to develop in rural MN. I am also working on a model to include in-home units for childcare in multi-family housing. In order to achieve success with regards to housing, we must bring everyone to the table.
From our audience: What effective policies will you support that will prepare your district now, next year and in the future to improve resiliency against climate change?
Environmental concerns are always going to be part of technology innovation and job creation, and both need to be addressed simultaneously when we are working on policy. This means we have to work across aisles to achieve those goals.
From our audience: Northern Minnesota is known as a "child care desert." What are your proposals to provide affordable, quality day care to the families of this area?
Since serving as Mayor, I have continued my work in expanding childcare options through programs such as special licensing, which allows providers to take an in-home childcare license, and use it in a commercial space. There have been many successful models around the state through local government and private support. I am also working to promote in-home childcare units in multi-family development projects.
From our audience: The population of our region is growing older and is increasingly in need of health services that specifically deal with the issues of senior citizens. What will you do to assure that our elderly residents receive affordable care that maintains their dignity?
This is a big issue that we need to continue to address especially in rural MN. We need to expand access and insurance reimbursement for in-home healthcare, incentivize development for senior living facilities, lower drug prescription costs, expand EMS services, and access to transportation to and from appointments. This work will take bipartisan support, which I have a proven track record of achieving.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all of your constituents, including those who did not vote for you?
In order to solve problems, you have to bring in new ideas and relationships to do so. Consensus is built upon the back of those who disagree, so reaching across aisles and surrounding yourself with people, who don't all agree, is the key to success.
Matthew Zinda
Party: Republican
KAXE did not receive a response from this candidate.
Still have questions for the candidates? Contact information for all those who've filed to run for office can be found on the Secretary of State's website.
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