Sonja Buckmeier

Abortion should always be a personal decision between a patient and their doctor, free from government interference. I fully support the PRO Act passed in Minnesota, which safeguards the right to reproductive freedom, ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including safe and legal abortion. This law upholds the essential right of individuals to make informed choices about their own bodies and health.

Strongly Disagree

I strongly disagree with unnecessary restrictions on chemical abortion drugs, such as mandatory in-person consultations. These regulations only serve to limit access to safe, effective care. I support following Planned Parenthood guidelines, which affirm that chemical abortions are safe and should be accessible without added barriers. Medical decisions should be based on science and patient needs, not on imposing undue burdens.

Strongly Disagree

I strongly disagree with defunding abortion providers like Planned Parenthood. These organizations provide essential healthcare services, including cancer screenings, birth control, and STI testing, often to underserved communities. Preventing them from receiving taxpayer funds would harm public health and limit access to critical care. Funding should continue to support the comprehensive health services they provide, not be restricted based on abortion services.

Agree

I agree with supporting 'aid in dying' laws that legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia. These laws respect human dignity by allowing individuals facing terminal illness and unbearable suffering the right to make compassionate choices about their own end-of-life care. Ensuring that people have the autonomy to decide how they wish to spend their final days is a critical aspect of respecting their dignity and personal freedom.

Agree

I agree that free enterprise and the right to private property are essential for a productive economic system. These principles foster innovation, encourage investment, and provide individuals with the freedom to pursue economic opportunities. By protecting private property rights and supporting a free market, we create a foundation for economic growth, job creation, and prosperity for all.

I support MN's new law raising the minimum wage. It's crucial that wages keep pace with the cost of living so working people can support themselves and their families. This increase ensures fairer opportunities and helps everyone live with dignity.

Yes

Yes, I support using ESG (environmental, social, and governance) ratings as criteria for investing public funds. Prioritizing investments that consider environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance ensures that public money is used to promote long-term, positive impacts on society and the planet. This approach aligns with responsible stewardship and helps build a better future for everyone.

Government should only close churches in extreme circumstances, such as public health emergencies or threats to public safety, where the action is necessary to protect lives. Religious freedom must be balanced with the common good.

Neutral

No, in most jurisdictions, individuals and businesses are generally not required to provide services that violate their deeply held moral or religious beliefs, as this would infringe on their right to freedom of religion. However, this principle is balanced with anti-discrimination laws that protect against denial of service based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. Laws typically require reasonable accommodation unless it causes undue hardship.

I support option B: Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, while still allowing for private healthcare options. This approach ensures that everyone has access to affordable healthcare, regardless of income, while preserving the freedom to choose private care if desired. It strikes a balance between providing necessary support and maintaining choice and competition within the healthcare system.

I support existing laws that require public health vaccinations for schools, which include provisions for personal exemptions. These laws balance public health needs with individual rights, ensuring community safety while respecting personal beliefs.

Agree

I agree that the Chinese Communist Party poses significant threats to the United States in areas such as military aggression, cybersecurity breaches, intellectual property theft, and global economic competition. Addressing these challenges requires a robust and strategic approach to protect national security, safeguard economic interests, and maintain global stability, while also promoting international cooperation where possible.

Yes, the United States' relationship with Israel is important because Israel is a key ally and world partner in promoting stability, security, and democratic values in the Middle East. This partnership strengthens both nations through shared intelligence, military cooperation, and economic ties. Supporting Israel also aligns with U.S. interests in countering regional threats and fostering peace in a historically volatile region.

Agree

I agree that the U.S. should do more to physically secure the southern border. Enhanced border security is essential for protecting national sovereignty, preventing illegal immigration, and combating drug trafficking and human smuggling. Strengthening physical barriers, increasing resources for border patrol, and improving technology can help manage the flow of people and goods, ensuring a safer and more orderly process for legal immigration and trade.

Disagree

I disagree with allowing state education dollars to follow the child to any school, including private or religious institutions. Public funds should support public education, ensuring equal access for all students. Funding religious education with public money risks violating the separation of church and state and could lead to discrimination. It's essential to preserve public schools as the foundation of a fair and inclusive education system.

Agree

I agree that children, as the most vulnerable members of society, must be protected from abuse. Ensuring their safety is a fundamental responsibility, and we must be vigilant in safeguarding them from physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Protecting children means upholding strong laws and support systems to prevent abuse, provide care, and promote their well-being, ensuring they grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.

Agree

I agree that parents should have the right to make decisions for their minor children. Parents are best positioned to understand their children's needs and should be empowered to guide their upbringing, education, and health, while ensuring their well-being and safety.

Neutral

I'm neutral on using taxpayer funds for gender transition services, as it depends on how these services are defined and the specific circumstances involved. It's important to carefully consider the needs of individuals and the role of public funding in healthcare.

Disagree

I disagree with limiting the definition of marriage to one man and one woman. I support same-sex marriage, believing that marriage is a personal commitment between individuals, regardless of gender. It is up to each person and their faith to define their beliefs about marriage, not the government. Everyone deserves the right to marry the person they love, with equal recognition and legal protections under the law.

I follow Protestant Christianity and believe in a higher power that guides us toward love, compassion, and the good of humanity. My faith emphasizes kindness, respect, and helping others. I respect all religious beliefs and value the dignity of every person. I strive to live by principles of fairness, empathy, and service to my community, inspired by my spiritual beliefs to work for a better world where everyone is treated with respect and care.

Agree

I agree, people should be able to vote without photo identification. Minnesota’s voting laws ensure that your right to vote is verified through a thorough registration process, which includes checks to confirm eligibility. Once registered, you don't need to show ID at the polls, as your identity is already legally established. This system safeguards both voter access and the integrity of elections, ensuring that all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote without unnecessary barriers.

Neutral

I'm neutral on whether states should join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, as I need more information and data to fully evaluate its implications. While the idea of aligning the Electoral College with the national popular vote has potential benefits, it's important to carefully consider the impacts on representation, the balance of power between states, and the overall functioning of our electoral system before making a decision.

I do not consider racism a direct threat to domestic security, but it's crucial to remain aware of its presence and impact. While not an immediate security threat, racism can contribute to social division and unrest. By continuing to educate ourselves and others on biases and promoting understanding, we can work towards a more inclusive and united society. Addressing racism through education and awareness helps to prevent it from becoming a more significant issue in the future.

Neutral

I'm neutral on Critical Race Theory (CRT) because its definition varies widely, and people understand it in different ways. While some view CRT as asserting that U.S. institutions are fundamentally racist, I believe the focus should be on acknowledging that racism exists and working to remove barriers. Our goal should be to build an inclusive and diverse community where everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of race. It's important to address racism thoughtfully and constructively.

Neutral

I choose not to answer this question as it involves complex and sensitive issues that require careful consideration of individual rights, fairness, and safety. It's important to approach such topics with empathy, respect, and a focus on finding solutions that address the concerns of all parties involved.

I believe that stricter environmental laws and regulations are worth the cost (B) and that climate change is real and requires urgent policy action (D). Protecting our environment is essential for long-term economic stability, public health, and global security. While there may be short-term costs, the benefits of preserving our planet and transitioning to sustainable energy far outweigh them. Urgent action is needed to address climate change and ensure a healthy future for all.

The most reliable way to meet growing demand is through a diverse mix of renewables like solar and wind, supported by nuclear power, energy storage, and innovations in new technologies. This approach ensures a sustainable, resilient energy future.

No

No

The general purpose of government is to serve and protect its citizens by upholding the rule of law, ensuring public safety, and promoting the welfare of the community. Government should provide essential services, protect individual rights and freedoms, and create opportunities for all citizens to thrive. It also plays a key role in fostering economic stability, ensuring justice, and addressing societal challenges to create a fair and inclusive society for everyone.

Lean Liberal

Disagree

I disagree with redirecting funds from police departments to community programs. Instead, I believe in evaluating current funding to ensure it's being used effectively. We should invest in both law enforcement and community programs to address public safety and social needs, finding a balance that enhances overall community well-being without compromising the essential services provided by the police.

To protect public safety, I support reasonable measures such as requiring gun owners to be licensed and trained, ensuring safe storage of firearms, and enforcing strict penalties for straw purchases. These steps help promote responsible gun ownership, reduce accidents, and prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands, balancing the right to bear arms with the need for public safety.

No

Teachers should not be required to carry guns at school. With school resource officers, secure buildings, and metal detectors in place, the focus should remain on creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Teachers are trained to educate, not to act as armed security. Prioritizing preventative measures and professional security staff is a more effective approach to ensuring safety without adding the risks associated with arming educators.