[ST. PAUL, MN]— On Monday evening, Governor-elect Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor-elect Peggy Flanagan completed a five-day “One Minnesota” statewide listening tour. Traveling over 2,100 miles, they visited all four corners of the state from Luverne to La Crescent to Hallock to Grand Portage. At 23 events attended by a total of more than 2,500 Minnesotans, Walz and Flanagan asked what values, perspectives, and leadership characteristics they hope to see in their commissioners and Administration. Attendees also spoke and asked questions about issues they want prioritized by the Administration. The issues that came up consistently were: education funding; health care costs and accessibility; transportation; childcare and housing availability; funding for mental health care programs; and restoring local government aid.

“These listening sessions were not only One Minnesota in action—they were democracy in action,” Walz said. “In packed city halls, libraries, farms, veterans homes, tribal communities, a mosque, and even a distillery, thousands of Minnesotans from across the political spectrum came together to voice their ideas, concerns, and passions. They took the opportunity to share not only with us, but with one another. It’s clear Minnesotans are ready to find common ground, tackle the challenges in their communities, and build a better life for everyone. This tour was just the beginning. Our Administration will be in perpetual motion, traveling across Minnesota and welcoming a transparent, open dialogue on the future of our state.”

“The energy and engagement we saw from Minnesotans this week is nothing short of inspiring,” Flanagan said. “Folks showed up and made their voices heard. These meetings set the tone for how we want to govern— in a way that makes people feel welcome, seen, and heard, regardless of who they are or where they come from. Building One Minnesota means working across lines of difference to get things done, and healthy, open conversations are the start.”

As Governor-elect Walz and Lieutenant Governor-elect Flanagan concluded their tour around the state they will continue through the hiring process for leadership positions within the Executive Branch. Candidates are encouraged to submit their application materials at mn.gov/tim-walz/careers by the December 7th deadline.