Republican Wayne Johnson of Cottage Grove and DFLer Lucia Wroblewski of Afton are vying for the seat of outgoing state Rep. Mark Wiens, R-Lake Elmo, in District 41A.
General information about the Nov. 5, 2024, election is online at twincities.com/news/politics/elections including information on candidates for races in Ramsey, Dakota and Washington counties. To find out what’s on your ballot, where to vote and other election information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s elections page at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting.
Wayne Johnson
Age: 59
Party: Republican
What would your top priorities be if elected?
As I’ve been talking to voters, the main things I’ve been hearing are that life has gotten too expensive, taxes are too high, and mandates are stifling innovation in business and in the classroom. My priorities are to lower taxes for Minnesotans and stop the out-of-control spending passed in the last budget, stop funding the rampant fraud that has come to light over the last few years, and allow more flexibility for teachers and job creators to do their jobs effectively and strengthen our state by removing burdensome unfunded mandates on schools and local small businesses.
What qualifies you to hold this position?
I have been on the Cottage Grove City Council and Washington County Board of Commissioners. During my time as a Commissioner, I have worked with budgets and figured out ways to bring the best value to residents of Washington County. During the covid crisis we were the way the State was able to get money out to renters, legislators and business owners. When they were bogged down with politics we lead the way and rose above politics. We also came out better financially and better efficiency of services. I also have championed a budget for our deputies that made sure they have the tools and funding to keep residents and businesses of Washington County safe.
What do you think is the primary role of government?
The primary role of government is to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens and provide essential public services to support the well being of society.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you?
Throughout my time in public service, I’ve made a point to listen to constituents about their priorities and values. As State Representative, that won’t change. I look forward to hearing from any constituent with thoughts or concerns about the issues coming before the legislature, and my door will always be open to the people of District 41A. The people who know our district best are the ones who live and work here every day, and I plan to keep their voices front and center as I vote on bills during the legislative session.
Website or contact information: waynejohnsonformn.com
Lucia Wroblewski
Age: 62
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Making life more affordable is a huge priority. People don’t mind paying taxes if they are fair. They don’t like seeing people rig the system to get ahead, whether they are big corporations or individuals. In my home budget and on Afton’s city council, I watch every penny. Economic opportunities and the tax system need to be fair – so everyone from our seniors to our middle class families and young people can thrive. Lawmakers don’t control prices, but they can level the playing field instead of giving most of the breaks to those who don’t need them.
What qualifies you to hold this position?
I served 10 years in local government and am in my 2nd term on the Afton City Council. Local government is where the rubber meets the road, where state policies are often implemented. My background on the planning commission and city council has prepared me to take to the legislature the ideas, concerns and challenges that are both unique and shared by the 8 cities and 3 townships of this sprawling district.
What do you think is the primary role of government?
In a democracy, government must be where our collective energy and wisdom promotes the common good and invests in our shared future prosperity. Government and the laws we make must balance majority rule with protection of minority rights. But the role of government is not to intrude or interfere with the personal health decisions people make with the healthcare professionals they know and trust.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you?
People know my politics. Yet, after my first term representing the most conservative ward in my city, I was re-elected without opposition. That shows I listen and respond to people of all political backgrounds, do my research, weigh all the facts, and then act in ways that promote the best possible common good. Even when disagreement on issues exists, treating people with civility and respect more often than not leads to productive conversations and useful solutions.
Website or contact information: luciaforhouse.com