Meet Mark
Why I am running.
Northwest Minnesota is my home, and representing the people who live here has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I am running for re-election because I believe our corner of the state needs a strong voice in St. Paul—someone who understands that the challenges and opportunities in Kittson County and northwest Minnesota can be very different from those in the Twin Cities.
I was first elected to the Senate in 2016, and the people of District 1 have since entrusted me with two additional terms. During that time, I have had the opportunity to serve in a number of leadership roles and currently serve as Senate Minority Leader. That experience has taught me how to build coalitions, negotiate difficult issues and, most importantly, make sure northwest Minnesota has a seat at the table.
Outside the Legislature, I am an attorney and small-business owner. Those experiences have given me a practical understanding of the challenges facing families, farmers and businesses in our communities. I want to continue putting that experience to work for the people of District 1.
A strong voice for Greater Minnesota.
Strong and Growing
What are priorities for Northwest Minnesota and our state?
My focus is making sure northwest Minnesota isn't an afterthought in St. Paul.
One of our biggest long-term challenges is keeping our communities strong and creating the conditions for people and businesses to stay, grow, and invest here.
That starts with the basics: good jobs, available housing, strong schools, accessible health care, competitive agriculture, and reliable infrastructure. Employers cannot grow if they cannot find workers, and communities cannot attract workers if there is nowhere for them to live. At the same time, we need to keep our hospitals, nursing homes, schools, emergency services, and other essential institutions viable even without the population density of the metro area.
Agriculture remains foundational to our economy, and we need policies that keep farmers and ag businesses competitive. We need continued investment in roads, bridges, flood protection, water infrastructure, and broadband, along with more flexibility for communities working to expand workforce housing and local development.
Statewide, affordability and responsible government remain priorities. Families face higher costs for housing, property taxes, energy, groceries, and other necessities. State government needs to remember that every dollar it spends ultimately comes from taxpayers.
The goal is straightforward: northwest Minnesota should be a place where businesses can grow, communities can thrive, and our children can find the opportunity to build a good life and raise their own families here." - Mark Johnson
