MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
State Representative (CONT.)
Heather Holmes
DISTRICT 24A
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for State Representative because I believe Minnesota should be a place where everyone is free and empowered to live their life as they choose. I want to ensure that our rural communities are being advocated for up in St. Paul. I have worked in various fields of scientific research for over two decades. These experiences have taught me how to absorb large amounts of new information, critically analyze data, and apply that knowledge to
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creatively solve problems. Serving on the school board has also helped me understand how what happens at the state level can directly impact our local communities. These things have also taught me the importance of humility and willingness to learn from others who have more knowledge than you. All of these experiences will serve me well if I am allowed to serve my district in St. Paul. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? Being on the school board has opened my eyes to the issues in funding facing our public schools, especially in greater Minnesota. These challenges make it difficult not only for our schools to continue to serve their students, but they also cost our communities in increased taxes to make up for the lack of funds. The historic investments in education made in 2023 were great, but unfortunately one funding cycle cannot make up for many years of underfunding. I also would like to focus on access to quality/affordable healthcare. This includes EMS services in our rural communities. Much of greater Minnesota is served by volunteer ambulance services for emergency care. These services are struggling to remain operational. If they disappear, it would be incredibly harmful for the communities they serve. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? I think it is important for the state government to find ways to work with the business community that allow businesses to thrive but also ensure citizens have access to what they need. The government should invest in infrastructure and things that ensure people can provide for their families. When people have what they need, they are able to better support local businesses. At the same time, the government should ensure they are also working to make Minnesota a place where businesses can thrive and be a part of their communities. I believe the two things do not have to be mutually exclusive.
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2024
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