Kristi Pursell (Democratic—Farmer—Laborer)
Kristi Pursell ’03, who graduated with a B.A. in English and environmental studies from St. Olaf, is running for re-election. According to her campaign website, kristipursell.com, before entering politics, Pursell served as Executive Director of Clean River Partners, an environmental non-profit organization focused on the Cannon River watershed. During her first term in office, Pursell worked to pass legislation that focused on Minnesota’s environment, natural resources, and local farmers. While the environment is a key component to her campaign, she also seeks to support working class families, fund public schools at the state level, ensure access to full reproductive rights, and to “fight for democracy.”
Rita Hillmann Olson (Republican)
Rita Hillmann Olson is a registered accountant practitioner, entrepreneur, and farmer who lives in New Prague, Minn. In a press release announcing her endorsement by the Republican party, Olson said that if elected, she will pursue policies that “make life more affordable, roll back the stifling mandates on buses, get spending under control, protect the rights of parents, and ensure our students are receiving a top-tier education.” According to her campaign website, ritamn.com, much of her campaign surrounds family issues, including education, elder care, family budgets, day care, and farming.
