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KTTC ONE-ON-ONE: Rep. Craig discusses Washington, Minnesota politics

KTTC One-on-One: Rep. Craig Discusses Washington, Minnesota Politics

In an exclusive one-on-one interview with KTTC, U.S. Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota's Second Congressional District delved into a wide array of topics spanning national politics in Washington, D.C., and pressing issues facing her home state. Craig, a Democrat serving her fourth term, opened the conversation by reflecting on the current state of bipartisanship in Congress, emphasizing her commitment to working across the aisle despite the increasingly polarized environment. She highlighted her role in passing key legislation, such as the infrastructure bill and efforts to lower prescription drug costs, which she argued have directly benefited Minnesotans.

Craig began by addressing the fallout from recent national events, including the ongoing debates over economic policy and inflation. She pointed out that while inflation has cooled somewhat, many families in her district, which includes suburban areas south of the Twin Cities as well as rural communities, are still grappling with high costs for groceries, housing, and energy. "We've made progress with the Inflation Reduction Act," Craig stated, "but there's more work to do to ensure that relief reaches everyday people." She criticized Republican-led efforts to repeal parts of the act, warning that such moves could exacerbate economic pressures on working-class families.

Shifting to Minnesota-specific issues, Craig discussed the state's agricultural sector, a cornerstone of her district's economy. She expressed concern over the impacts of climate change on farming, citing recent droughts and extreme weather events that have affected crop yields. Craig advocated for stronger federal support for farmers, including subsidies for sustainable practices and investments in rural broadband to help agribusinesses compete in a digital economy. "Minnesota farmers are the backbone of our food supply," she said, "and we need policies that protect them from both environmental challenges and unfair trade practices."

On the topic of healthcare, a personal priority for Craig given her background in the medical device industry, she praised the expansion of telehealth services post-pandemic but called for more action to address mental health crises, particularly in rural areas where access to providers is limited. She shared anecdotes from constituents who have struggled with opioid addiction and mental health issues, underscoring the need for bipartisan solutions like increased funding for community health centers. Craig also touched on reproductive rights, reaffirming her support for federal protections in light of the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. "Women in Minnesota and across the country deserve the right to make their own healthcare decisions," she asserted, noting that she has co-sponsored bills to codify these protections.

The interview then turned to national security and foreign policy, with Craig weighing in on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee and the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, she emphasized the importance of maintaining strong alliances while protecting American interests. "We can't afford to isolate ourselves," Craig said, advocating for continued aid to Ukraine to counter Russian aggression. She linked this to domestic concerns, explaining how global instability affects energy prices and supply chains that impact Minnesota's manufacturing sector.

Craig didn't shy away from discussing the 2024 election cycle and its implications. With the presidential race heating up, she expressed optimism about Democratic chances but stressed the need for unity within her party. She critiqued former President Donald Trump's influence on the Republican Party, suggesting that his rhetoric has deepened divisions. "Politics shouldn't be about division; it should be about delivering results," she remarked. Looking ahead to her own re-election bid, Craig highlighted her track record of bringing federal dollars back to the district for projects like road improvements and clean water initiatives.

Education emerged as another key theme, with Craig addressing the challenges facing Minnesota's schools, from teacher shortages to the lingering effects of COVID-19 learning loss. She supported federal investments in early childhood education and vocational training, arguing that these are essential for building a skilled workforce. "Our kids deserve the best start possible," she said, pointing to programs like Head Start that she has championed.

On environmental policy, Craig spoke passionately about protecting Minnesota's natural resources, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. She opposed efforts to expand mining in sensitive areas, balancing economic development with conservation. "We can have jobs and a healthy environment," she insisted, referencing her work on clean energy legislation that promotes wind and solar power in the state.

Throughout the interview, Craig emphasized her pragmatic approach to governance, often citing examples of collaboration with Republican colleagues on issues like veterans' affairs and small business support. She recounted a recent bill she co-authored with a GOP counterpart to expand benefits for disabled veterans, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. "That's the kind of work that makes a real difference," she said.

Wrapping up, Craig reflected on the broader political landscape, urging voters to focus on candidates who prioritize problem-solving over partisanship. She expressed hope for the future, despite the challenges, and encouraged Minnesotans to stay engaged in the democratic process. "Democracy works when we all participate," she concluded, leaving viewers with a message of resilience and unity.

This wide-ranging discussion showcased Craig's deep ties to her district and her strategic positioning in Washington, where she navigates complex issues with a focus on practical outcomes. Her insights provided a glimpse into how national policies intersect with local needs, offering valuable context for voters as elections approach. (Word count: 842)

Read the Full KTTC Article at:
[ https://www.kttc.com/2025/08/15/kttc-one-on-one-rep-craig-discusses-washington-minnesota-politics/ ]