2026 MN Senate District 48 Candidate
GOP
“We need legislators with a proven record of working together to address the biggest issues our state is facing: rampant fraud, an unfriendly business climate, students not succeeding, overspending and more. I have a proven record of fighting for common sense, reaching across the aisle, and making sure our community has a voice in St. Paul.”
— Julia Coleman —
Name: Julia Coleman
Website: https://www.colemanforsenate.com/
Email address: Julia@colemanforsenate.com
City of residence: Waconia
Professional and volunteer background:
Prior to serving in the Minnesota State Senate, I worked in public relations for Minnesota’s medical device industry, working with more than 650 member companies across the spectrum of health innovation and care. Upon election to the State Senate, I shifted my focus to raising my three little boys while running a small business during the interim. I have an extensive volunteer background, including the Chanhassen Lions Club, the Miss America Organization, and volunteering at many community events.
Why did you decide to run for a seat in the Minnesota Senate:
I decided to run for re-election to the Minnesota State Senate because I saw the impact extreme partisanship was having on our state. We need legislators with a proven record of working together to address the biggest issues our state is facing: rampant fraud, an unfriendly business climate, students not succeeding, overspending and more. I have a proven record of fighting for common sense, reaching across the aisle, and making sure our community has a voice in St. Paul.
What makes you the best candidate in this race:
Results matter. The community recognizes that I have delivered more than $70 million back to Carver County for local projects, have spoken up when I see something wrong regardless of who is in power, have worked respectfully with both sides of the aisle, and have always put Minnesotans first. I will continue to serve this district with heart, a strong backbone and a willingness to listen and learn.
What would be your top 3 priorities if elected to the Legislature:
When re-elected, my top three priorities will include putting a stop to the financial mismanagement that led to the surplus being squandered and rampant fraud to take place; getting our schools back on track so our students have the skills they need to succeed; and making life more affordable for Minnesota families.
If you were elected and could be guaranteed approval on one legislative bill in the upcoming session, what would that one bill address:
After witnessing the Democrat trifecta spend down the $18 billion surplus while raising taxes $10 billion and allowing fraud to run rampant, I would love to see a financial responsibility bill pass. This bill should put foolproof safeguards around spending to prevent fraud, allow inadequate commissioners to be removed by the Legislature, prevent frivolous spending and return money to the taxpayers.
What has been the biggest failure attributed to legislative action or inaction in recent years:
In 2022, Senate Republicans held hearings to demand answers after the Feeding our Future fraud scandal was uncovered. Later that year, we lost the majority and were ignored for several years as we demanded changes and safeguards to prevent taxpayer dollars from being taken advantage of like that again. So much of this fraud could have been prevented, and I hear from voters at the doors that they are sad, angry and embarrassed this has taken place. This could have been stopped, and it shouldn’t have taken a national spotlight on the state to get attention on the issue.
What are your thoughts on the current level of taxation in Minnesota:
Minnesota ranks terribly when it comes to competitiveness and taxation. Voters tell me every day that they are being taxed out of their homes and taxed out of Minnesota. A Chamber survey showed a majority of Minnesota businesses are struggling with our high taxes. When I see frivolous spending and fraud, the taxation rate frustrates me even more. People work hard for their money, and it’s imperative that legislators spend wisely, spend efficiently and make sure no tax dollars are wasted.
With so much attention focused on national issues, how will you engage the community to increase awareness of local issues?
My office works incredibly hard to make sure constituents understand what’s going on at the Legislature. During both terms, I have sent legislative updates out to the community highlighting what’s going on in St. Paul, posted frequent updates on social media, worked with local media to spread the word about happenings at the Capitol, held town halls and open office hours, and made every effort to respond to calls and emails that make their way to my office. Communication is key, and my team and I work hard to communicate regularly and effectively with the community.
