Patch Candidate Profile: Brad Finstad For U.S. House

MINNEAPOLIS — On Tuesday, southern Minnesotans will head to the polls and elect a candidate to serve out the final four months of the late Republican Rep. Jim Hagedorn's term in Congress.

Hagedorn died in February, leaving the seat in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District vacant. Aug. 9 is also a primary to determine the candidates who will be on the ballot in the November general election.

Republican Brad Finstad is running to serve out the final months of Hagedorn's term. He will also be on the general election ballot in November, which will determine the district's representative through 2024.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles over the coming weeks.

Learn more about Findstad and his positions below:

Name: Brad Finstad

Town of residence: New Ulm

Office sought: U.S. House, 1st Congressional District

Party affiliation: Republican

Education: University of Minnesota with a degree in Agriculture Education

Occupation: Farmer and Small Business Owner

Family: Wife Jackie, and our 7 children

Age: 46

Previous public office, appointive or elective

State Representative 2003-2009, USDA State Director Office of Rural Development 2017-2021

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running because I think we owe it to the next generation to do better. The rising cost of living especially the cost of energy is a major problem. I know I am a conservative who can work to get things done for the people of southern Minnesota.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have had years of experience working on policies that help our rural communities and farmers.

What are your views on Minnesota's current abortion laws?

I am pro-life.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Look forward to working on the farm bill. Address family pocketbook issues.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have worked with many people to accomplish major policy wins. We passed pro-life legislation when I was in the Minnesota House. Helped on many rural development project including broadband expansion when I was with the Department of Agriculture.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My grandfather said no matter where you are or what you are doing you should leave things better than you found them.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

It would be an honor to represent my family, friends, and neighbors across southern Minnesota. I will always work hard to listen and fight for our interests and values.