Angeline Anderson
Name: Angeline Anderson
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 651-605-1780
Campaign Website: www.angelineforminnesota.com
Twitter handle: @angelineformn
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/angelineformn/
Candidate Bio
I'm running for State Representative to bring positive change and strong advocacy to our community. Growing up in Rosemount, MN, I learned the importance of faith, family, and hard work. After earning degrees in Human Communication and Media Communication from Bethel University, I built a successful career in Los Angeles, CA in the film industry, founding Five Acre Films LLC and producing and starring in award-winning films.
In 2020, I returned home to Minnesota during the pandemic and stayed to help care for my terminally ill grandfather. Through that experience I felt compelled to get involved in politics. Our community faces rising crime, struggling schools, and an economy stifled by excessive regulations. I’m committed to supporting law enforcement, revitalizing the economy, and ensuring our education system empowers every child through parental involvement and returning to the basics of math, reading, and science.
With deep roots in my community and a passion for servant leadership, I aim to represent our district's needs and values at the Capitol. Together, we can restore economic stability, uphold our principles, and secure a prosperous future for all Minnesotans.
What would be your top three priorities if elected? How might these priorities be affected by the state's projected economic outlook?
If elected, my top three priorities would be:
How would you characterize the business climate in the East Metro? Please elaborate on your answer.
The business climate in the East Metro is challenging, particularly for small businesses that are burdened by high taxes and unfunded government mandates. While some government programs may benefit Minnesotans, it's crucial to balance these with the needs of small businesses. Unlike large corporations that can easily absorb new costs, small, main street businesses often lack the infrastructure or financial resources to comply with additional mandates. Business leaders in the area have expressed that Minnesota is a tough place to own and operate a business. To improve the business environment, we need leaders who will prioritize meaningful relief for small businesses and ensure that government actions at the Capitol support their success and don’t have a one size fits all approach.
Please characterize your perspective on the ideal collaboration between government and the business community when it comes to tackling challenges whether they be education, housing, or workforce development? Do you feel the outcomes of the 2023-2024 legislative session positively or negatively impacted that collaboration and our state's business climate?
I believe that a strong partnership between government and the business community is essential in addressing key challenges like education, housing, and workforce development. When these two sectors collaborate effectively, they can create solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also foster long-term economic growth and community well-being. As for the outcomes of the 2023-2024 legislative session, they have had a mixed impact on this collaboration and our state's business climate. While there have been some positive steps forward, certain policies have also introduced new challenges that need to be addressed to ensure a more conducive environment for business growth and collaboration.
One of the significant challenges we face is the current state of housing, which directly affects our workforce. The types of housing being developed often don’t align with the traditional American Dream of homeownership—a dream that promotes investment in and pride in our communities. Additionally, while there are numerous job training programs available across the state, both publicly and privately funded, the key issue is ensuring that people are aware of these opportunities. Furthermore, it's crucial that individuals can earn a solid wage while enhancing their skills, which is why I strongly support apprenticeship and trades training programs. These initiatives provide valuable, hands-on experience and a clear path to stable, well-paying jobs.
What policies, if any, would you support to help employers address our state’s critical labor shortage?
To effectively address our state's critical labor shortage, I would support policies that prioritize affordable housing and childcare—two fundamental pillars that directly impact workforce participation. The current situation has shown that when the government intervenes in these sectors, it often leads to higher costs and fewer available options, exacerbating the very issues it aims to solve. Instead, we need to empower communities and businesses to take the lead in developing solutions that are tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. This approach would encourage innovative, locally-driven initiatives that can more effectively meet the demands of both employers and workers. By reducing regulatory burdens and fostering partnerships between the private sector and local communities, we can create a more dynamic and responsive labor market that supports growth and economic stability.
The 2023-2024 Legislature passed many new mandates on employers, such as Paid Family Medical Leave, Earned Safe and Sick Time, and Worker Misclassification penalties. Do you support the PFML program in its current form or do you believe there needs to be further refinement before the program comes into effect in January 2026? If elected, what steps would you take to understand the impact of a proposal on the many types of businesses in the East Metro and how would you define any exceptions to those policies?
While the Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) program may have been well-intentioned, the current "one size fits all" approach is not the best path forward. It's already projected to cost far more than initially anticipated, which will likely result in higher taxes for both employers and employees. Before this program takes effect in 2026, it's crucial to refine the legislation, including exploring private options that individuals can select through their health plans. Additionally, the current language and definition of "family member" in the Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) program needs to be revisited. The inclusion of individuals of close association and non-family designees presents practical challenges and imposes significant burdens on all employers in the state.
As a state representative, I would prioritize engaging with local business owners to understand their concerns and the real-world impact of these policies. It's vital to ensure that any legislation considers the diverse needs of businesses in the East Metro. I believe small businesses deserve relief from burdensome government mandates that stifle growth and innovation. By listening to our local entrepreneurs and advocating for common-sense reforms, we can create a more balanced and supportive business environment.
What are your strategies to address public safety challenges in your district and the state?
Public safety is a core function of government, and we must pursue policies that ensure the safety of our citizens, provide necessary resources for those who keep us safe, and hold offenders accountable. My strategy to address public safety challenges in our district and across the state starts with fully supporting our law enforcement agencies. This means ensuring they have adequate funding for staffing, equipment, training, and retention, and it also means standing firmly behind them as they work to protect our communities.
We need to strengthen our judicial system to hold criminals accountable, especially violent offenders. I advocate for increased penalties for those who recklessly flee police, the authorization of tracking devices on fleeing vehicles, and ensuring that sex offenders with stayed sentences are required to register as predatory offenders. Violent criminals with multiple convictions should face increased sentences.
In addition to enforcement, we must support peace officer recruitment and retention by increasing penalties for assaulting officers, providing ongoing training funds, and allowing officers to collect benefits while still working after age 55.
Finally, protecting Second Amendment rights is crucial. I support measures like offering lifetime permits, constitutional carry, and enacting Stand Your Ground laws. By enacting these policies, we can make our communities safer for everyone.
How would you work to improve transportation options in the district/state, including improved safety for transit riders, pedestrian/bike, and drivers alike?
Improving transportation options in our district and state starts with ensuring that dedicated transportation funds are used exclusively for their intended purpose. In the past, funds like the auto parts sales tax have been diverted to other general fund projects, which undermines our ability to maintain and enhance our infrastructure. We must keep investment in roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects at the forefront.
A growing concern is the safety of transit users, particularly on buses and light rail in the metro area. To address this, we should prioritize having a Metro Transit officer present to maintain order and ensure the safety of passengers. Safety must be a top priority across all modes of transportation, including transit, pedestrian, and bike routes, as well as for drivers on our roads.
What ideas do you have to address housing shortages and affordability?
To address housing shortages and affordability, we need a multi-faceted approach that focuses on increasing the availability of truly affordable homes. First, we must prioritize the construction of more single-family starter homes and move away from the trend of high-density developments. By doing so, we can create options that allow more people, especially first-time buyers, to achieve homeownership.
Removing roadblocks that delay housing approvals is critical. The legislature should modernize zoning laws and limit the ability of local governments to impose aesthetic requirements beyond what’s necessary for safety and durability. By imposing unnecessary restrictions on lot size, garage size, and aesthetics, we are artificially inflating costs and limiting affordability.
Lastly, we need to ensure that existing neighborhoods allow for a range of home types that are accessible to more people, considering the high costs of construction, materials, and burdensome regulations that currently drive-up housing costs for all Minnesotans.
In light of projected budget deficit/"structural imbalance," what are your priorities for the State's budget?
In light of the projected budget deficit and structural imbalance, my top priority is to address the rampant waste, fraud, and inefficiency in government spending. We need to reduce the burden of unfunded mandates passed in previous sessions that strain our communities and businesses. Instead of increasing taxes and expanding government, we should be seeking innovative ways to collaborate with local communities and businesses to create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Last year, Democrats squandered an $18 billion surplus, raised taxes and fees on Minnesotans by another $10 billion, and expanded the size of government by nearly 40%. Minnesota desperately needs balance in the legislature. We need fiscal responsibility that focuses on sustainable growth, smart investments, and empowering our citizens rather than burdening them with ever-increasing taxes and government overreach. Together, we can steer Minnesota toward a more prosperous and balanced future.
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 651-605-1780
Campaign Website: www.angelineforminnesota.com
Twitter handle: @angelineformn
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/angelineformn/
Candidate Bio
I'm running for State Representative to bring positive change and strong advocacy to our community. Growing up in Rosemount, MN, I learned the importance of faith, family, and hard work. After earning degrees in Human Communication and Media Communication from Bethel University, I built a successful career in Los Angeles, CA in the film industry, founding Five Acre Films LLC and producing and starring in award-winning films.
In 2020, I returned home to Minnesota during the pandemic and stayed to help care for my terminally ill grandfather. Through that experience I felt compelled to get involved in politics. Our community faces rising crime, struggling schools, and an economy stifled by excessive regulations. I’m committed to supporting law enforcement, revitalizing the economy, and ensuring our education system empowers every child through parental involvement and returning to the basics of math, reading, and science.
With deep roots in my community and a passion for servant leadership, I aim to represent our district's needs and values at the Capitol. Together, we can restore economic stability, uphold our principles, and secure a prosperous future for all Minnesotans.
What would be your top three priorities if elected? How might these priorities be affected by the state's projected economic outlook?
If elected, my top three priorities would be:
- Revitalizing Minnesota’s Economy: I am committed to implementing policies that stimulate economic growth, support small businesses, and create good-paying jobs. Given the state’s projected economic challenges, it’s crucial to pursue fiscal responsibility and pro-growth initiatives that can help reverse the economic decline and ensure long-term stability.
- Strengthening Education: Our schools need fair and flexible funding that prioritizes local control, empowering parents to be actively involved in their children's education. Critical decisions should be made by local school boards, educators, and parents—not state bureaucrats—allowing for innovation and stronger community engagement. We must address the literacy crisis by focusing on phonics and foundational skills to ensure every child can read. High expectations and academic rigor should be our focus, rather than ideological agendas, to truly prepare students for success.
- Enhancing Public Safety: Public safety begins with supporting the brave men and women who protect our communities. It’s essential to stand behind law enforcement, who have been unfairly villainized by some groups, and ensure that our judicial system enforces the laws in place. Too many offenders are let off with probation or minor punishments, only to commit further crimes. I will push for stronger enforcement and support measures that prioritize the safety and security of all Minnesotans.
How would you characterize the business climate in the East Metro? Please elaborate on your answer.
The business climate in the East Metro is challenging, particularly for small businesses that are burdened by high taxes and unfunded government mandates. While some government programs may benefit Minnesotans, it's crucial to balance these with the needs of small businesses. Unlike large corporations that can easily absorb new costs, small, main street businesses often lack the infrastructure or financial resources to comply with additional mandates. Business leaders in the area have expressed that Minnesota is a tough place to own and operate a business. To improve the business environment, we need leaders who will prioritize meaningful relief for small businesses and ensure that government actions at the Capitol support their success and don’t have a one size fits all approach.
Please characterize your perspective on the ideal collaboration between government and the business community when it comes to tackling challenges whether they be education, housing, or workforce development? Do you feel the outcomes of the 2023-2024 legislative session positively or negatively impacted that collaboration and our state's business climate?
I believe that a strong partnership between government and the business community is essential in addressing key challenges like education, housing, and workforce development. When these two sectors collaborate effectively, they can create solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also foster long-term economic growth and community well-being. As for the outcomes of the 2023-2024 legislative session, they have had a mixed impact on this collaboration and our state's business climate. While there have been some positive steps forward, certain policies have also introduced new challenges that need to be addressed to ensure a more conducive environment for business growth and collaboration.
One of the significant challenges we face is the current state of housing, which directly affects our workforce. The types of housing being developed often don’t align with the traditional American Dream of homeownership—a dream that promotes investment in and pride in our communities. Additionally, while there are numerous job training programs available across the state, both publicly and privately funded, the key issue is ensuring that people are aware of these opportunities. Furthermore, it's crucial that individuals can earn a solid wage while enhancing their skills, which is why I strongly support apprenticeship and trades training programs. These initiatives provide valuable, hands-on experience and a clear path to stable, well-paying jobs.
What policies, if any, would you support to help employers address our state’s critical labor shortage?
To effectively address our state's critical labor shortage, I would support policies that prioritize affordable housing and childcare—two fundamental pillars that directly impact workforce participation. The current situation has shown that when the government intervenes in these sectors, it often leads to higher costs and fewer available options, exacerbating the very issues it aims to solve. Instead, we need to empower communities and businesses to take the lead in developing solutions that are tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. This approach would encourage innovative, locally-driven initiatives that can more effectively meet the demands of both employers and workers. By reducing regulatory burdens and fostering partnerships between the private sector and local communities, we can create a more dynamic and responsive labor market that supports growth and economic stability.
The 2023-2024 Legislature passed many new mandates on employers, such as Paid Family Medical Leave, Earned Safe and Sick Time, and Worker Misclassification penalties. Do you support the PFML program in its current form or do you believe there needs to be further refinement before the program comes into effect in January 2026? If elected, what steps would you take to understand the impact of a proposal on the many types of businesses in the East Metro and how would you define any exceptions to those policies?
While the Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) program may have been well-intentioned, the current "one size fits all" approach is not the best path forward. It's already projected to cost far more than initially anticipated, which will likely result in higher taxes for both employers and employees. Before this program takes effect in 2026, it's crucial to refine the legislation, including exploring private options that individuals can select through their health plans. Additionally, the current language and definition of "family member" in the Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) program needs to be revisited. The inclusion of individuals of close association and non-family designees presents practical challenges and imposes significant burdens on all employers in the state.
As a state representative, I would prioritize engaging with local business owners to understand their concerns and the real-world impact of these policies. It's vital to ensure that any legislation considers the diverse needs of businesses in the East Metro. I believe small businesses deserve relief from burdensome government mandates that stifle growth and innovation. By listening to our local entrepreneurs and advocating for common-sense reforms, we can create a more balanced and supportive business environment.
What are your strategies to address public safety challenges in your district and the state?
Public safety is a core function of government, and we must pursue policies that ensure the safety of our citizens, provide necessary resources for those who keep us safe, and hold offenders accountable. My strategy to address public safety challenges in our district and across the state starts with fully supporting our law enforcement agencies. This means ensuring they have adequate funding for staffing, equipment, training, and retention, and it also means standing firmly behind them as they work to protect our communities.
We need to strengthen our judicial system to hold criminals accountable, especially violent offenders. I advocate for increased penalties for those who recklessly flee police, the authorization of tracking devices on fleeing vehicles, and ensuring that sex offenders with stayed sentences are required to register as predatory offenders. Violent criminals with multiple convictions should face increased sentences.
In addition to enforcement, we must support peace officer recruitment and retention by increasing penalties for assaulting officers, providing ongoing training funds, and allowing officers to collect benefits while still working after age 55.
Finally, protecting Second Amendment rights is crucial. I support measures like offering lifetime permits, constitutional carry, and enacting Stand Your Ground laws. By enacting these policies, we can make our communities safer for everyone.
How would you work to improve transportation options in the district/state, including improved safety for transit riders, pedestrian/bike, and drivers alike?
Improving transportation options in our district and state starts with ensuring that dedicated transportation funds are used exclusively for their intended purpose. In the past, funds like the auto parts sales tax have been diverted to other general fund projects, which undermines our ability to maintain and enhance our infrastructure. We must keep investment in roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects at the forefront.
A growing concern is the safety of transit users, particularly on buses and light rail in the metro area. To address this, we should prioritize having a Metro Transit officer present to maintain order and ensure the safety of passengers. Safety must be a top priority across all modes of transportation, including transit, pedestrian, and bike routes, as well as for drivers on our roads.
What ideas do you have to address housing shortages and affordability?
To address housing shortages and affordability, we need a multi-faceted approach that focuses on increasing the availability of truly affordable homes. First, we must prioritize the construction of more single-family starter homes and move away from the trend of high-density developments. By doing so, we can create options that allow more people, especially first-time buyers, to achieve homeownership.
Removing roadblocks that delay housing approvals is critical. The legislature should modernize zoning laws and limit the ability of local governments to impose aesthetic requirements beyond what’s necessary for safety and durability. By imposing unnecessary restrictions on lot size, garage size, and aesthetics, we are artificially inflating costs and limiting affordability.
Lastly, we need to ensure that existing neighborhoods allow for a range of home types that are accessible to more people, considering the high costs of construction, materials, and burdensome regulations that currently drive-up housing costs for all Minnesotans.
In light of projected budget deficit/"structural imbalance," what are your priorities for the State's budget?
In light of the projected budget deficit and structural imbalance, my top priority is to address the rampant waste, fraud, and inefficiency in government spending. We need to reduce the burden of unfunded mandates passed in previous sessions that strain our communities and businesses. Instead of increasing taxes and expanding government, we should be seeking innovative ways to collaborate with local communities and businesses to create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Last year, Democrats squandered an $18 billion surplus, raised taxes and fees on Minnesotans by another $10 billion, and expanded the size of government by nearly 40%. Minnesota desperately needs balance in the legislature. We need fiscal responsibility that focuses on sustainable growth, smart investments, and empowering our citizens rather than burdening them with ever-increasing taxes and government overreach. Together, we can steer Minnesota toward a more prosperous and balanced future.