District 56
2026 MNCPA Election Guide
All candidates were invited to participate in the MNCPA Election Guide, which is informational only and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any candidates. Candidate responses are unedited and do not reflect the views of the MNCPA. Senate candidates
Erin Maye Quade
Party: Democratic-Farmer-Labor
This candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
Raymond David Petersen
Party: Republican
This candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
House A candidates
Robert Bierman
Party: Democratic-Farmer-Labor
This candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
A.J. Prospect
Party: Republican
This candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
House B candidates
John Huot
Party: Democratic-Farmer-Labor
This candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
Andrew Hattaway
Party: Republican
Incumbent: No
Endorsed by party: Yes
Age: 42
Website: www.andrewhattawayformn.com
How would you approach balancing the state budget while maintaining essential services, and what principles guide your decisions on spending versus revenue increases?
Balancing the state budget starts with responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and a focus on long term sustainability rather than short term fixes. My approach would prioritize protecting essential services such as public safety, infrastructure, education, and services that directly support working families and vulnerable residents, while also ensuring government operates efficiently and transparently.
How do you evaluate the cost-benefit of regulations on businesses, particularly small and midsize, and what reforms would you support to reduce unnecessary compliance burdens?
When evaluating regulations, I believe policymakers should carefully consider both the intended public benefit and the compliance costs placed on businesses, including administrative complexity, permitting delays, reporting requirements, staffing burdens, and overall impact on growth and competitiveness. A regulation may have good intentions, but if it creates excessive costs with limited measurable benefit, it should be reviewed and improved.
How would you support the Minnesota business landscape to increase the competitiveness and growth of our economy for employers and employees alike?
Minnesota must approach growth responsibly by balancing economic development with long term sustainability, infrastructure capacity, and transparent public planning. Businesses are more likely to invest and remain in communities where leadership is stable, infrastructure is reliable, and residents have confidence in local governance and long-term planning decisions. To increase competitiveness, Minnesota should prioritize responsible fiscal policy, reliable infrastructure, streamlined permitting processes, and a regulatory environment that protects the public while remaining practical and efficient for employers.
What else should your district's voters know about you?
Voters should know that I approach public service from a background rooted in community, responsibility, and experience. My time in the fire service taught me the importance of preparation, accountability, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure. It also reinforced that leadership is ultimately about serving people, solving problems, and earning trust through actions rather than rhetoric. I am committed to listening to residents, staying accessible to the community, and approaching issues with a focus on facts, accountability, and long-term planning rather than politics alone. My goal is to represent the district with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to protecting and strengthening the quality of life.