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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Pine County Commissioner District 1

County commissioners are the county s key policymakers. They oversee the administration of the county, set county budget, and participate in county long-range planning. County services that they oversee include a wide variety of social service and welfare programs, as well as certain public health programs. Learn more about the day in the life of a county commissioner in this video from the Association of Minnesota Counties.

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  • Candidate picture

    Steve Olson
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Abbie Raudabaugh
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Jay Samuelson
    (NP)

Biographical Information

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (750 characters)

How would you balance safe and secure elections with voting access? (500 characters)

What do you see as the biggest challenges to mental health and social services in your county, and how would you address them? (500 characters)

What approach would you take to delivering county services while managing the cost of delivering those services? (500 characters)

What role, if any, do you think the county board plays in immigration enforcement? (500 characters)

How do you plan to interact with constituents to best understand the needs of the county? (500 characters)

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telephone 6122891899
If elected, my top priorities will be reducing the tax burden on residents through responsible budgeting and careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars, strengthening Pine County's economy by supporting local businesses, workforce development, and agriculture, and ensuring residents have access to the emergency response, public safety, mental health, and supportive services they need to thrive. As a township supervisor, construction professional, veteran, farm wife, and mother, I understand the importance of balancing essential services with fiscal responsibility. I will work to ensure county government operates efficiently, invests wisely in critical infrastructure and services, and supports opportunities that keep jobs and talent local.
Safe, secure elections and voter access go hand in hand. Every eligible voter should have the opportunity to vote, and every resident should have confidence in the integrity of the process. As County Commissioner, I will support election officials with the resources, training, and transparency needed to administer elections fairly, securely, and according to the law while ensuring voters have clear information and reasonable access to participate.
One of Pine County's biggest challenges is ensuring residents can access mental health and social services close to home, especially in our rural communities. Workforce shortages, transportation barriers, and limited resources often delay care. I would support partnerships that expand access, strengthen crisis response services, and invest in programs that help individuals and families become safe, healthy, and self-sufficient.
My approach is simple: deliver essential county services efficiently, effectively, and responsibly. I will prioritize taxpayer dollars, evaluate programs based on results, pursue grant funding when available, and encourage partnerships that improve services without increasing costs. Residents deserve quality services, safe communities, and well-maintained infrastructure while knowing their tax dollars are being managed with care.
Immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, not a county board function. The county's role is to ensure local government services are delivered fairly, legally, and efficiently while supporting public safety. As a commissioner, I would focus on the responsibilities entrusted to county government, support law enforcement in carrying out their duties under the law, and ensure taxpayer resources are used appropriately and responsibly.
Understanding the needs of Pine County starts with being present and listening. I am going door to door across the district, taking the time to have real conversations with residents about their everyday concerns and challenges. Those conversations provide valuable insight that you can't get from reports or meetings alone. My commitment is to listen first, seek to understand different perspectives, and make informed decisions that reflect the needs and priorities of the people I serve.
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