Zeleznikar Hosts Bipartisan Legislative Exchange in Northern Minnesota
Building Bridges Across Party Lines to Find Common Ground
Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar recently hosted Rep. Ned Carroll as part of one of Minnesota’s first Legislative Exchange programs. Sponsored by the Citizens League, this initiative pairs two state representatives from opposite political parties to spend two days in each other’s district, fostering mutual understanding and bipartisan collaboration.
With the Minnesota House currently tied 67–67, it takes 68 votes for a bill to pass and move to the Senate. This balance of power makes relationship-building and compromise essential for progress. As Rep. Zeleznikar noted, “In order for Minnesota to move forward, we must find opportunities for common ground—and seek areas of mutual understanding on issues that are complex and often polarized”.
Exploring the Northland
During the visit, the representatives shared meals and toured a range of local industries and community assets. They met with loggers, toured LP Building Solutions, rode ATVs on Northern Minnesota’s trail systems, and visited Aspirus Lakeview Hospital and Lakeview Ambulance.
Rep. Zeleznikar also introduced Rep. Carroll to local students who received grants to become Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), showcasing workforce initiatives supported through state programs.
The visit highlighted key regional priorities, including protecting Lake Superior from sewer seepage due to aging infrastructure— an issue that reflects shared environmental and public health concerns across party lines.
Economic and Environmental Priorities
Zeleznikar emphasized the importance of PILT (Payments in Lieu of Taxes)—state payments to offset property tax losses for communities that host large amounts of untaxable public land. “Northern Minnesota is a playground for the entire state,” she explained. “Our communities deserve fair compensation for the public lands that benefit all Minnesotans.”
The tour also covered emerging economic opportunities, including the recent helium discovery in Isabella and the shipping and port activity in Two Harbors, both of which hold promises for regional growth and revenue.
Shared Legislative Success and Future Exchange
Both legislators serve on the House Health Committee and co-authored a bipartisan bill that finally passed after 17 years of effort, allowing Minnesota optometrists to practice to the full scope of their licensure—aligning state law with other states.
“Building relationships across the aisle helps us see both the similarities and differences between suburban and Greater Minnesota communities,” Zeleznikar said. “When the House is tied, collaboration isn’t optional—it’s the only way forward.”
Rep. Zeleznikar will continue the exchange by visiting Rep. Carroll’s district in Plymouth this January. The two concluded their time together with a visit to Castle Danger Brewery—a nod to the Minnesota tradition of camaraderie and shared conversation over a local beer.
Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar represents Minnesota House District 3B, including Hermantown, Proctor, Two Harbors, Rice Lake, Gary- New Duluth and surrounding townships.
