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  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates: Jen Schultz

    Jen Schultz is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for U.S. House of Representatives in Congressional District 8 Back Jen Schultz U.S. House of Representatives Congressional District 8 Duluth, Minnesota Jen Schultz, a dedicated candidate for Congress in Minnesota's 8th Congressional District, is a passionate advocate for positive change. With a background in public service and a commitment to community well-being, Schultz champions accessible healthcare, economic revitalization, and educational opportunities. Her focus on grassroots solutions and inclusivity reflects a deep understanding of the district's diverse needs. Endorsed by the DFL Rural Caucu s, Jen embodies the values that resonate with Minnesota's 8th. Support Jen Schultz for Congress to ensure thoughtful and effective representation, where community voices are amplified, and a brighter future is built for all. info@jenschultzforcongress.com Donate Website

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates:

    is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for in Back Julie Henslin State House District 16B Willmar, MN My name is Julie Vossen-Henslin, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 16B. While I never imagined I would be writing an inaugural political post, I believe that our community is ready for a fresh perspective—and that change begins with leadership rooted in experience and hard work. My foundation was built on a farm in Raymond. Growing up in a family of nine children, I learned the true meaning of labor and responsibility early on. Whether I was working the fields, driving tractors, or loading trucks, my dedication was never questioned. Those formative years instilled in me a profound respect for our land and the agricultural roots that sustain our region. After earning my degree from the University of Minnesota Morris, I returned to Willmar to serve as an administrator of a long-term healthcare facility. Eventually, life led me on a ten-year adventure to Alaska with my best friend and husband, Steve. Together, we built a beautiful life and family—a partnership that is still going 40 years strong. When it came time to decide where to raise our children, Kyler and Zoe, our hearts led us back home to Willmar. Upon returning, I continued my career in Social Services. The individuals I served during those years shaped my worldview; their stories and resilience gave me far more than I could ever give them, and they remain the "why" behind my commitment to advocacy. Driven by grit and determination, Steve and I eventually stepped into entrepreneurship, starting and operating two small manufacturing businesses right here in Willmar: Ductcap Products and KZ Sales. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges our local economy faces and the tenacity required to thrive. Volunteering has been a cornerstone of my life—a lifelong passion dedicated to serving my community, from our local schools and healthcare facilities to community closets and meal-packing initiatives. As a dedicated advocate, serving on the Board of Directors for the Willmar Stingrays and Willmar Pride has reinforced my belief that active community engagement is not just a duty, but an integral part of who I am. While I have been a consistent voter since I was eligible, I never considered myself a "politician." However, that changed when Donald Trump entered the arena. Faced with unprecedented uncertainty, I felt compelled to act, attending the 1st Women's March in D.C. That experience ignited a new, fiercer desire to speak up and fight for the good people of our community. Which brings us to the present. Over the past year, amid deep reflection, I’ve asked myself: Is now the time? Can I do this? The winter of 2025 was a season of enlightenment for me—the anxiety, fear, and intimidation affecting our neighbors became too much to witness silently. A new fire was lit, one ready to take on a new fight: running as a candidate for the Minnesota House of Representatives. We must do better for ourselves, our planet, and for one another. Too often, common sense has been replaced by chaos. My campaign is built on putting people over politics. I am fighting for law and order, fairness for our farmers, stability in our healthcare systems, due process for all, and a common-sense approach to immigration reform. My values have always guided my heart and decisions. I believe in people. I believe we are always stronger together. I am ready to be a source of strength for our community and state—sharing authentic, candid conversations to create lasting and meaningful change. Long before I knew I would be here, I was practicing for this position: as a mom, a wife, a sister, and a local business owner. I have been a cheerleader, a carpooler, a volunteer, and a fierce advocate. It has all led me here. I am Julie Vossen-Henslin, and I am running for the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 16B to serve you! I am ready to stand firm in my values and fight for the underdog by leading with compassion, empathy, and persistence. If you believe in this vision, I invite you to join me. 'Real People. Real Change.' is more than a slogan—it is my personal promise to you. I would be honored to have your support as we move forward together. Let’s get to work, Minnesota! With gratitude, Julie Donate Website

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates:

    is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for in Back Chris Swanson State House District 11A Cloquet, MN Born and raised in Cloquet, Chris Swanson is running for the Minnesota House of Representatives to bring solutions—not division—to St. Paul. As a high school social studies teacher, community and union leader, and city councilor, Chris has spent much of his life serving the people of our area. He knows what matters most to our communities: respectful dialogue, problem solving, and making sure no one is left behind. chrisswansonforhouse@gmail.com Donate Website

  • Committees | DFL Rural Caucus

    Learn more about the DFL Rural Caucus committees and what you can do to support our cause. Rural Caucus Committees Leadership & Assignments The DFL Rural Caucus is committed to promoting DFL values across rural Minnesota—but we can’t do it without you! Your involvement is essential in making a real impact. Consider hosting or helping to coordinate a DFL outreach event in your community. This could be a potluck, a breakfast gathering, a legislative forum in collaboration with allied organizations, or an event co-hosted with other DFL caucuses. You can also participate in existing community events like Labor Day picnics, parades, Pride celebrations, Farm Fest, and more. The DFL Rural Caucus is here to support you—we can connect you with other members in your area, provide tabling materials and banners, and assist with both social media and traditional media outreach. Another way to get involved is by joining a DFL Rural Caucus Committee. We’re actively seeking new committee members, and we'd love to have you on board! You can find descriptions of our committees and sign-up details below. Communications Committee Event promotion, social media, newsletters, website development, and technology management. Sign Up Endorsement Committee Review candidate questionnaires, interview candidates, recommend endorsements, coordinate electoral support, and get out the vote. Sign Up Fundraising Committee Hold events to raise funds for the DFL Rural Caucus and DFL-endorsed candidates. Sign Up Outreach Committee Manage membership engagement and outreach activities. Sign Up Resolutions, Platform, & Policy Committee Track legislative policy, resolutions, and rural-related issues. Sign Up Constitution & Rules Committee Update our constitution, develop rules, and assist with credentials. Sign Up Nominations Committee Coordinate nominations to the DFL Rural Caucus Executive Committee, review nominations forms, interview candidates, and recommend nominees for election. Sign Up Comms Committee Endorsments Committee Fundraisin Committee Member/Outreach Committee Policy and Platform Committee CBRC Nominations Committee

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates:

    is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for in Back Rusty Nelson State House District 21A Hendricks, MN My grandparents and great-grandparents farmed in northwest MN (Kittson, Roseau, and Polk Counties). My parents were in the Air Force and Civil Service, so we lived in Hawaii (where I was born), Nebraska, Puerto Rico, and North Dakota. Attended Concordia College, Moorhead, and studied more at the University of North Dakota (PhD Biochemistry and Molecular Biology). I conducted biochemical/biophysical research for 13 years including Scotland (UK), University of Minnesota, and South Dakota State University. After that, I taught science (7-12) and Spanish for 28 years. I am a trustee at my church in Hendricks, am president of the Hendricks Senior Center, volunteer at the local nursing home, and have been an EMT here for over 20 years. My wife and I have lived in Grand Forks, Scotland, Mpls and here in Lincoln County, where we are very happy to have called home for 32 years. nelsonfor21A@itctel.com Donate Website

  • Contact | DFL Rural Caucus

    Questions? Concerns? Get in contact with us! The DFL Rural Caucus is a community caucus of the Minnesota DFL, or Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party. Contact us for more information on how to get involved or any questions about our caucus. Contact Us! Questions? Concerns? Fill out this form or email info@dflruralcaucus.org and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Submit Thanks for submitting!

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates: Ian English

    Ian English is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for MN House of Representatives in House District 58B Back Ian English MN House of Representatives House District 58B Farmington, Minnesota I graduated from Eden Prairie High School and attended college at Minnesota State University, Mankato. While in college, I enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve as a Military Policeman. I served on a mobilization to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in 2015-2016. I graduated in 2017 with a double-major in Law Enforcement and Political Science. After graduation, I spent several years working in hospital security. Working in the hospital helped me realize my passion for healthcare, and I returned to school again in order to become a Registered Nurse. I have worked as an ER nurse now for over two years. I have an amazing wife, Brittny, and we have a beautiful 1-year old girl, Isla. englishforhouse@gmail.com Donate Website

  • Membership | DFL Rural Caucus

    Learn more about becoming a member of the DFL Rural Caucus. Membership Join the DFL Rural Caucus and be a part of shaping the future of our rural communities, whether you're a farmer or simply someone who cares about the issues that affect them. Become a Member Why join the Rural Caucus? The Rural Caucus serves as a unified voice for the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party in Minnesota, representing diverse perspectives from urban and rural areas alike. As members of the caucus, individuals have the privilege of voting at all membership and committee meetings. The caucus holds quarterly full-membership meetings and elects executive committee members, who in turn meet on a monthly basis. Members are encouraged to actively participate in committees, which meet on a varying schedule. All meetings are open to the public and guests are welcome. Additionally, the caucus appreciates any additional contributions, as 100% of contributions are directed towards supporting rural outreach efforts and electing rural candidates for various offices throughout Minnesota. Become a Member Membership FAQ Questions for a Committee? Click Here Click the button to see our committee roster and contact the appropriate committee chair.

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates:

    is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for in Back Dan Wilson State House District 26A Winona, MN Dan Wilson is a farmer, laborer, and community leader who has spent twenty years putting down roots in Winona County — and fighting to make it a place where working families can afford to stay. Dan farms rotationally grazes cattle on a rural land cooperative in southern Winona County. Living rurally has driven his advocacy for clean well water and rural broadband — basic infrastructure that greater Minnesota families deserve. Dan serves serves on leadership in the Winona EDA, Mi Energy Citizen Board, and Hope for Homes. He is running for House District 26A because Winona deserves a champion for affordability — not a partyfollower. Dan@danwilsonforhouse.com Donate Website

  • Membership Resources | DFL Rural Caucus

    Rural Caucus resources for members Membership Resources Discover valuable resources from the Rural Caucus and other Democratic organizations that we recommend. Find meeting minutes, our constitution, and more. Access the resources below. Constitution & Bylaws Learn More Minutes and Agendas Learn More Submit an Event Learn More Resolutions Learn More Committees Learn More Local Units & Caucuses Learn More State DFL Trainings Learn More FAQ Learn More DFL Elected Officials Learn More

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates:

    is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for in Back Samuel Grigsby State House District 6A Grand Rapids, MN I am a retired firefighter/emt here in Grand Rapids. I am a member of the Grand Rapids police dept. as a security officer at our local hospital and also serve as a volunteer member of the police reserve squad. I have been a member of the Mt. Itasca ski patrol member since December of 1994. I am a former teamster while working at Ferrellgas here in Grand Rapids. I am married to my beautiful wife of soon to be 35 years and we have 4 sons and 4 beautiful grandchildren. I have served as a fire instructor for the State of MN. from 1998 until my retirement in 2022. My family and people i hope to represent deserve someone who will fight for this area not play party line politics. grigsbyforhouse6amn@gmail.com Donate Website

  • 2024 Endorsed Candidates: Jennifer Nuesse

    Jennifer Nuesse is the DFL Rural Caucus endorsed candidate running for MN House of Representatives in House District 17B Back Jennifer Nuesse MN House of Representatives House District 17B Arlington, Minnesota I have lived in the City of Arlington for 14 years. I grew up in Cologne (Carver County) and attended Central High School in Norwood-Young America. I have a BA degree in Music Education from Augsburg University in Minneapolis. My husband Rodger and I have been married for 42 years. We raised our family in Chanhassen and relocated to his hometown of Arlington in 2009. I retired from my career in January 2024, after 38 years in corporate business. Roles included positions in sales and customer service, management, recruiting, training, and finance. I am now seeking election to the public office where I may continue using skills of team-building, collaboration, and problem-solving. jnuesse@icloud.com Donate Website

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