|
Dear friends and neighbors on the Iron Range,
The legislative session is almost upon us – where has the time gone? It has been a busy interim, to say the least, but I am looking forward to getting back to work in St. Paul for the Range. As we wrap up the last two weeks at home, I have some final events to share with you. Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter!
Standing with our Range Workforce
The recent news about the latest round of HibTac mine layoffs is nothing short of devastating for our friends and neighbors there. As a fellow miner and Ranger, I understand how actions like this one effect employees, families, and the Range overall. Please see my statement below and, as always, please reach out if I can be of assistance to you.
|
|
Touring ME Elecmetal Foundry
I recently toured the ME Elecmetal foundry in Gary New-Duluth, an important regional partner to our mining industry. ME is making a significant $15 million investment in a new induction furnace that will improve efficiency, enhance working conditions for employees, reduce emissions, and lower long-term costs. The facility employs roughly 90 Steelworkers and 35 salaried staff, providing good-paying, family-sustaining jobs that matter to the community. I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from company leadership about market conditions and long-term plans, and to visit with local and state leaders who joined the tour. This type of investment is critical to sustaining strong industrial jobs in our region.
Many thanks to our partners at the foundry, as well as fellow Rep. Jeff Dotseth and Jonathan Cotter with the MN Chamber for joining me on the tour.
|
|
BIOBY Dinner
I attended the 6th Annual Better In Our Back Yard Winter Dinner with my wife Maria and daughter, Leah, which brought together nearly 500 people who support responsible domestic mining and energy development. The evening featured strong discussion on the role mining plays in America’s energy future, with panelists and speakers highlighting the need to source critical minerals here at home. Congressman Pete Stauber shared his perspective on getting the country back on track with mining and energy policy, and keynote speaker Benji Backer delivered a conservation message that responsible domestic mining is essential to building new energy systems. Mark Bakk of Lake Country Power shared this important reality: we cannot produce energy without mining, and we cannot mine without reliable energy. Thank you to the BIOBY board and organizers for hosting a thoughtful and well-run event.
|
|
March for Life 2026
Even with some of the coldest weather to date this year, I was proud to join my family and colleagues at the 2026 March for Life. The event brought together Minnesotans from across the state to affirm the value of human life and the belief that every person deserves a chance at life.
Several speakers highlighted serious concerns around accountability and the protection of vulnerable teen girls, particularly those being trafficked and subjected to coercive situations. The message was clear that real choice requires transparency, support, and safeguards for both mothers and children.
The gathering was a reminder that supporting life also means supporting women facing difficult circumstances. The event was especially meaningful for our family as we recently welcomed our fourth grandchild, a powerful reminder of the gift of life. I appreciated connecting with many longtime friends and advocates who continue to work on these important issues across Minnesota.
|
|
Staying Connected with SLCAT
The final pre-session meeting of the St. Louis County Association of Townships was held in Cotton, with strong turnout from township officers across the county. Attendees heard from the Minnesota DNR on wildfire preparedness as development continues in wooded and rural areas, along with updates from county commissioners on current priorities and challenges. I appreciated the opportunity to speak about shared concerns, including the importance of rooting out fraud and the ongoing issues with delayed DHS payments to disability service providers. It was good to reconnect with township leaders and to recognize the critical role they play in serving their communities. |
|
 |
|
|
Another Trip to the Zoo!
Thank you to Lake Superior Zoo Executive Director Noah Hobbs for a great tour of the facility last week! The zoo has long been a special place for families in Duluth, and it truly serves as a regional attraction for the Iron Range and surrounding communities. It was a unique experience to go behind the scenes, including the opportunity to help feed Tacoma, a male cougar from Oregon, and to learn more from the dedicated staff who care for the animals. With the zoo open year-round, it is a great time to plan a visit and support this important local asset.
|
|
Please Contact Me
Please continue to reach out if I can be of any assistance to you. The best method is to use my email – I am rarely near the office phone, but that number is 651.296.0170 and you can try me there too.
Have a great weekend!
|
|
|
|
