ARLINGTON, MN — Ben Wieman, a 5th-generation farmer from Sibley County whose family has worked the same land since 1886, officially announced his candidacy today for Minnesota House District 17B.
Running under the slogan "Let's Put the 'F' Back in DFL," Wieman's campaign centers on restoring strong, practical representation for rural Minnesotans. His key priorities include supporting independent family farms, fully funding rural public school districts, lowering healthcare costs, and keeping property taxes fair for working families.
A Deep Root in Rural Minnesota
Born and raised in Sibley County, Wieman has lived the challenges facing rural communities every day — from fluctuating commodity prices and rising input costs to the strain on rural healthcare systems and local schools.
"Our rural communities deserve a representative who lives these challenges alongside them. For too long, St. Paul politics has left family farmers and small towns behind. I'm running to make sure District 17B has a strong, common-sense voice fighting for our future." — Ben Wieman
Key Campaign Priorities
- Supporting Family Farmers & Agriculture: Strengthening local ag economies, expanding access to land for beginning farmers, and promoting sustainable agriculture that protects soil and water for future generations.
- Investing in Rural Schools: Fighting for equitable state funding formulas so rural students have access to top-tier education, vocational training, and modern facilities.
- Lowering Living Costs & Healthcare: Protecting rural hospitals and clinics, lowering prescription drug costs, and ensuring working families aren't priced out of their homes by skyrocketing property taxes.
- Strengthening Rural Infrastructure: Expanding high-speed broadband internet, repairing local roads and bridges, and investing in clean, reliable energy.
Wieman has already received the official endorsement of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party for District 17B.
