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This year’s election includes candidates for the Minnesota State House to represent West St. Paul. The city is represented by two separate state house districts and divided roughly in half. The northern half is in 65B and the southern half is in 53A. We’ve asked the candidates a series of questions to see where they stand on the issues. We’ll share one question and the responses at a time leading up to the general election on November 5. See our 2024 voter’s guide for more.
Previously we asked about candidates’ top issues, gambling, and education. This time we’re asking about the economy.
What will you do as a legislator to help with rising costs and concerns about the economy?
Here are the candidates’ responses:
House District 53A
Mary Frances Clardy
As your state representative, tackling the rising costs and economic worries in Minnesota is at the heart of what I do. I’m all about supporting our local businesses by pushing for tax breaks and grants that help them grow and create jobs right here in our community. Affordable housing is another important issue; I’ll work hard to pass laws that increase housing options so everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home. It is important to me that the local elected representatives are involved with plans for West Saint Paul.
Addressing the workforce shortage is crucial. By investing in education and training programs, we can make sure people have the skills needed for the jobs that are in demand, boosting employment and our local economy.
Healthcare is another area where I want to make a difference. I’ll support initiatives to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, easing the financial load on families. Improving our infrastructure is crucial too. I’ll fight for funding to upgrade our roads, ensuring our communities are well-connected and ready for the future
Nathan Herschbach
Nathan Herschbach did not respond to our questionnaire.
House District 65B
Mike Hilborn
Cut taxes and regulations. Higher taxes makes everyone poorer. Especially the middle class. Regulations hurt small businesses. Taxes and regulations raise costs for everything, so these impact everyone in our state.
María Isa Pérez-Vega
Our small businesses are the backbone of our state and local economies. Too often, however, access to resources and support remain in the hands of large corporations, while our small businesses are left to go it alone. Holding corporations accountable to what they owe the State of Minnesota is critical to ensure it is easier for our small business to access the resources they need to thrive.
Vote on November 5
The general election is on Tuesday, November 5. Learn more about where and how to vote. You can also vote early with an absentee ballot, either by mail or by stopping at the Dakota County offices.
See our 2024 voter’s guide for more on the candidates and other races.
Thank you to the candidates for taking the time to respond to our questions.
This local election coverage only happens thanks to the support of our members. Consider joining West St. Paul Reader to ensure local election coverage continues. Membership starts at just $3 per month.
